Why Do You Gain Weight When You Stop Smoking

Many people worry about gaining weight when they consider quitting smoking.  When you stop smoking, weight gain is one of the more common effects.  Many people will gain five to ten pounds, maybe more.  Although the weight gain from quitting smoking is common, it is not unavoidable.

There are several causes of weight gain from a stop-smoking program.

For many people, your body will naturally crave food as you remove nicotine from your system. It is very common to substitute food for smoking.  As you begin snacking, your caloric intake goes up and the weight gain begins.

Long time smokers also don’t begin an exercise program immediately after quitting smoking.  As you stop smoking, the ill effects will continue to linger on.  You’ll continue to be tired and be out of breath for several weeks or longer.  Beginning a new exercise program is significant endeavor for anyone.  For smokers, it is even more of a challenge.

Smoking also causes straight physiological effects. The heart rate is increased by smoking, even at low dosages.  Because your heart rate is stimulated, you are better able to keep weight off.  Unfortunately, this increased heart rate is not healthy in the long term.  Fatty deposits will build up in your arteries and the other ill effects of smoking will outweigh the weight loss.

The combination of eating more and minimal exercise is the what ultimately causes you to gain weight from quitting smoking.

Luckily, you can take steps to reduce or completely eliminate any weight gains.  When you begin your stop smoking program, you should plan on making other life style changes.  Modify your diet so that it is healthier.  Avoid needless snacking.  Begin an exercise program that is appropriate for your age and fitness level.

Willpower and attitude will be your most important tools as you quit smoking.  When you have a craving to smoke, try eating something healthy like fresh fruit.  Be sure to compensate for the extra consumption by cutting down somewhere else.  It is important to avoid high caloric snacks and foods as you try and compensate for a cigarette.

The first few weeks will be the most challenging.  During this period, your body is flushing out the harmful compounds that have accumulated from your smoking.  This is an excellent time to concentrate on a healthier diet and to begin an exercise program. It's short enough that only modest weight gain is likely during that period.

It is critical that you drink plenty of water during this period.  This extra water consumption may show up as extra pounds on your scale – but don’t worry.  This excess weight is temporary and will easily be flushed out as you taper off.  Drinking extra water also helps in other ways.  The added hydration aids the body by helping it remove the extra contaminants from smoking.  Even more importantly, water has no calories and isn’t fattening.  Drinking water is a great way to react to cravings.

Your main hurdle as you quit smoking will be to maintain your commitment to a long term goal.  If you can keep focused and visualize the results it will help.  If you can continually picture a better looking, healthier body, you will find you have more willpower. Think of having more energy and being able to accomplish your other goals more easily.

You don’t have to gain weight when you quit smoking – just stay focused on a healthier diet and staying active.