Quitting smoking is one of the hardest processes that one can undertake but it is necessary and worth the pain. We all know the dangers that come with smoking, and hence we won’t want to dwell much on them. It is no secret that many people are into it but are willing to quit. The process can be both mentally and physically draining, but it is worth the course. The problem is that it comes with some other challenges like weight gain since your appetite for food rises so that you can satisfy the gap left by smoking
Research has it that an individual will gain an average of eleven pounds in the first year when they quit smoking. Do not be worried too much about this since you are not alone nor is it a serious problem. In this article, we are going to highlight some of the measures that you can undertake so that you quit smoking without gaining weight. Why does one gain weight? To prevent the condition, you must first know what causes it. The nicotine that is contained in whatever one smokes stimulates the brain cells that usually signal people to stop eating when they are full. Thus the absence of this nicotine usually stimulates one to consume food more than their satisfaction levels. Here is how to beat the trap.
1. Eat regular meals and healthy snacks
Since nicotine tricks the body that you have eaten to your satisfaction when you do away with your smoking habit, you will realize that your body will feel hungrier than before. Thus it will require you to keep full always which will require that you consume more. Thus if you feel hungry between meals, it is advisable that you take a fresh veggie for a snack, fresh popcorn or fruit and then compliment it with a large glass of water.
2. Exercise
It is advisable that you exercise or take a walk for at least 30 min every day. Research has it that nicotine temporarily increases one’s body metabolism, thus when you quit it is likely to return to normal levels. That is why you are encouraged to engage in the physical activity so that you can boost your body metabolism. Maintaining regular exercise plan is a very important part of the smoke quitting process.
3. Start a new post-meal ritual
If you are a keen observer, you must have noted that every smoker will have a cigarette after a meal, this will usually signal the body that they are done with the meal. Thus it is important that you create a new signal for your body that will tell it that you are done eating. You can brush your teeth, try to walk around the block or even meditate for a few minutes to make it known to the body that you are done eating.
4. Keep your mouth busy
As you quit smoking, you will miss something in your mouth or hands; this is more likely to be replaced by food. But to avoid gaining weight, it is advisable that you get a positive substitute instead. You can be chewing baby carrots or be using dental picks as they will also boost your oral hygiene.
