Why do people gain weight after they quit smoking?

Smoking is an addiction, which over time starts affecting physical and mental well-being. But quitting smoking isn't also an easy task. Those who try to quit smoking often face unwanted side effects making it more challenging to give up on nicotine dependence, and one is weight gain. It is common to gain weight when trying to give up smoking, and you are alone in it. It does not imply that you should continue with it. Smoking can give rise to many health problems like cancer, heart disease, stroke, lung diseases and diabetes. Weight gain caused after quitting smoking is still reversible, but other chronic diseases caused due to it can turn out to be fatal.

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The findings of a study published in the journal Drug and Alcohol Dependence revealed that the real culprit for weight gain when quitting is our brain. Nicotine withdrawal increases our craving for unhealthy and processed food. Besides, cigarettes reduce appetite. So, when you quit smoking, you may feel hungrier and end up eating more than normal. All these factors together make a person gain weight when trying to quit smoking. Another reason for weight gain after quitting is slow metabolism that happens in absence of nicotine. As a result, a person burns fewer calories when they are not smoking.

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Weight gain after quitting nicotine is completely reversible. If you are trying to quit smoking, it is better to take steps to maintain a healthy weight from the beginning. It will reduce the trouble of first gaining weight and then losing it. We have listed a few things that you need to follow to maintain your weight when trying to shed kilos.

If you are physically active then continue with your workout routine and if you are not start doing it. Exercising boosts your metabolism and also help you burn more calories than usual. Include cardio and strength training sessions in your workout routine. Exercise daily for at least 45 minutes.

Fiber keeps you fuller for a longer time. Having fiber-rich food can prevent you from unhealthy cravings for fatty and sugary food items. Eat more colourful veggies, fruits and healthy fat to lose weight and maintain it. Practising clean eating habits can also cut down the risk of chronic diseases.

Make an eating schedule and try to stick to it. The gap between your meal timing should not be that long. It can only make you famished and you will eat more during mealtime. Eat at a regular interval and eat healthy foods. Also eat a well-balanced diet, including all the micro and macronutrients.

Your sleeping schedule also matters when you are trying to shed kilos. Sleeplessness or sleeping for fewer hours can increase your craving for unhealthy foods in the morning. It can also lead to mood swings, irritability and lack of concentration.