Want to quit smoking, but afraid you're going to balloon up? It doesn't have to happen! Or maybe you've already quit and are noticing a weight gain beyond the average 4-6 pounds. Most people think quitting smoking and weight gain are synonomous, but they don't have to go hand in hand. As long as you understand a few things, and make some subtle changes, you can have a healthy pair of lungs and a welcomed waist line. For one, nicotine is an appetite suppressant, so alot of times, people smoke in place of eating. If proper nutrition is not already in place prior to quitting, you can easily become "suprised" with your new found, unwanted appetite! Solution: Eat, and eat often. Smaller meals throughout the day will keep your blood sugar levels consistant and help you maintain portion control. Don't skip meals as this will definitely set you up to overeat and make poor choices later on in the day. Drink water. Water not only detoxifies your body flusing out fats and waste, it also can make you feel full. Exercise! Yes I know, why would you want to do that:) Exercise, however, not only burns calories(an essential component to losing/maintaining weight), it also is a mood booster. So get movin! Lastly, and most importantly, you would have to gain, you ready for this: OVER ONE HUNDRED POUNDS IN WEIGHT TO EQUAL THE DAMAGE YOU ARE DOING TO YOUR HEART FROM SMOKING RIGHT NOW! So, don't let the fear of weight gain make you put off quitting or worse yet, go back to smoking again.
