. Water retention may cause a deceptive weight gain of up to 5 pounds in the week after quitting smoking, but this is not a real weight gain, and your body will go back to normal. When you quit smoking, you can breathe and get around more easily, and nutritious foods such as fruits and vegetables taste better when you are not smoking. Make a list of when and where you are most tempted to smoke, and list healthy activities you can substitute when you have the urge. Try to do at least 30 minutes of physical activities on most days, even if it is in a few shorter increments. But changing too much too quickly can increase the stress you feel as you try to quit smoking. The most important components of preventing weight gain when you quit smoking are: Physical activity To prevent weight gain at this time, you need to become more physically active. Try not to do things that tempt you to smoke, such as drinking or socializing in a bar, or tempt you to eat when you're not hungry, such as bringing a bag of chips in front of the television. Becoming physically active will not only help you control your weight, but will also give you more energy, improve your health, take your mind off smoking, and help relieve the stress and moodiness that may occur as a result of withdrawal from nicotine. This can cause extra stress that can lead to extra snacking, especially over the holidays when more food is around, or relapsing back into smoking to cope with the stress. Keep your hands busy with doodling, crossword puzzles, knitting, or twirling a straw, pen, or pencil. Weight gain is more likely when someone has smoked for 10 to 20 years or smokes a pack or more a day. If you are struggling or anxious about trying to quit smoking, talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement such as nicotine gum or a nicotine patch. Managing cravings Once you stop smoking, it is important to learn how to reduce your cravings for both cigarettes and food. Try to stay positive, and try not to panic about modest weight gain; if you do gain weight, your healthy habits will help you lose the weight once your body gets back to normal. Not everyone gains weight when they stop smoking, but the average weight gain is about 10 pounds. Try to do at least 30 minutes of physical activities on most days, even if it is in a few shorter increments.
If you need more guidance, talk to your doctor or dietitian. Snack on fruit or chewing gum to satisfy any sweet cravings. Beginning to increase your physical activity before you quit smoking may remind you how much smoking slows you down, when you have trouble breathing or start to cough during exercise.
Reduce tension by meditating, taking a walk or a bath, or taking deep breaths.
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