Live Life Team
Many people are concerned about weight gain when deciding to quit smoking. The smoking risks far outweigh the prospect of gaining a few pounds. In fact, if conscious efforts are made, it is entirely possible to kick that nasty habit without gaining weight.
The average person will only gain about 10 pounds during a cessation programme. However, through a nutritious diet and an exercise plan, this weight can be easily lost. The types of foods and beverages consumed while quitting smoking can help or harm the ex-smoker. However, a little determination can go a long way to a healthier, smoke-free lifestyle.
Smoking has a direct effect on taste, and this can lead to a few unpleasant experiences in the first few weeks of quitting. For example, certain foods or drinks may make cigarettes taste better, while others make the taste of cigarettes almost unbearable. The results of several studies have shown that meats, coffee and alcohol tend to make cigarettes more appealing, while water, fruits and juices, vegetables, and dairy products make cigarettes taste very bad. Thus, the smoker is drawn to unhealthy foods in the days after kicking the habit.
There is another obstacle. Quitting may make a person feel hungrier causing the ex-smoker to eat more than they normally would. However, it is important to get these urges under control to reduce weight gain during the first days of quitting. Eating moderate amounts of healthy foods, such as fruits, vegetables and dairy products will make the transition from smoker to non-smoker much easier.
