Dont Weight To Butt Out
By using a stop smoking aid, and avoiding going cold turkey, you can give up cigarettes without packing on the pounds. Here’s how. There is no time like the present to give yourself the gift of health by putting down the cigarettes without letting the scale go up. Clinical studies have shown when smokers quit cold turkey, they can gain on average nearly 10 pounds. But the good news is that when smokers used a stop smoking patch, no weight gain was reported.
“For years I have worked with patients who want to quit smoking, but are concerned about gaining weight,” says Gina Sunderland, Registered Dietitian. “It is possible to butt out without gaining extra pounds! Combined with making some smart choices, when you use a stop smoking aid you can both help control weight gain and double your chances of successfully quitting smoking compared to cold turkey.”
EAT, DRINK AND GET HEALTHY!
Take a deep breath of fresh air and get ready to lead a healthier lifestyle! “If you can make the commitment to quit smoking and start living better you will not only feel immediate benefits like awakened taste buds and more energy, but you will be taking a huge step towards your long term health,” adds Sunderland. Sunderland recommends beginning by following some of these easy tips:
Primped and prepared: No matter where you are going, always be prepared before leaving the house. Reduce the urge to smoke later by arming yourself with the patch. Also, keep a small snack on hand to curb hunger and prevent overeating.
Satisfied with less: One of the biggest rewards of quitting smoking is enjoying the enhanced flavours of foods. Savour the flavours and take time to enjoy healthy portions. Slowing down will also allow your stomach the time it needs to signal to your brain that you are full.
Idle hands no more: It’s tempting to replace cigarettes with food, but avoid the urge with something else to do! Keep cut vegetables or small amounts of unsalted, unshelled nuts on hand for something to do with your hands. Reach for the tooth brush instead and it will be less tempting to smoke with a clean and fresh mouth.
Get moving: Go out for a walk, tobogganing or skating and take in a breath of fresh Canadian air! If the weather is too cold, try an indoor activity such as swimming, bowling or roller-skating. Physical activity helps to give your metabolism a “boost”.
A new routine: Eating healthier and quitting smoking is not just about keeping a routine, but also breaking old ones. Be aware of trigger situations that are most tempting to slip back into the old habit of lighting up. Create a new strategy and be prepared with a stop smoking patch to help you as you quit and so you can face all situations strong.
Source(s): © McNeil Consumer Healthcare, division of Johnson & Johnson Inc. 2007
