Why Should I Quit Smoking

These can help prevent a relapse, and nicotine gum has been shown to reduce weight gain. Managing cravings Once you stop smoking, it is important to learn how to reduce your cravings for both cigarettes and food. T. Find something that will replace smoking as a way to relax and do it consistently. Eating a variety of foods each day is a good start, and eating regularly so you never get too hungry. Try to stay positive, and try not to panic about modest weight gain; if you do gain weight, your healthy habits will help you lose the weight once your body gets back to normal. Weight gain is more likely when someone has smoked for 10 to 20 years or smokes a pack or more a day. Try to stay positive, and try not to panic about modest weight gain; if you do gain weight, your healthy habits will help you lose the weight once your body gets back to normal.

Replace smoking with other activities that occupy your hands and your mouth. Reduce tension by meditating, taking a walk or a bath, or taking deep breaths. Drink less caffeine; although you may think it will make you feel better, caffeine can worsen the jittery nervous feeling that may accompany nicotine withdrawal. Snack on fruit or chewing gum to satisfy any sweet cravings.

A. Get support and encouragement; talk to a friend when you get the urge to smoke; talk about something other than smoking. Snack on fruit or chewing gum to satisfy any sweet cravings. Get enough sleep; when you are tired, you are more likely to crave cigarettes and food.

Water retention may cause a deceptive weight gain of up to 5 pounds in the week after quitting smoking, but this is not a real weight gain, and your body will go back to normal.

A craving only lasts about 5 minutes. If you need more guidance, talk to your doctor or dietitian. If you are struggling or anxious about trying to quit smoking, talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement such as nicotine gum or a nicotine patch. When you quit smoking, you can breathe and get around more easily, and nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables taste better when you are not smoking.

Article Source: How to Stop Smoking