A common reason that many people return to smoking is fear of gaining weight. Quitting can be looked at as a new opportunity to introduce healthy habits into your daily routine. These can support you in your goal of becoming smoke-free and also help you manage your weight.
If you find that weight gain is setting you back, remember that quitting smoking is a process, and you may need to take stock of what is and is not working, and make adjustments as you move forward.
Why do some people gain weight?
Nicotine keeps you from feeling hungry and smoking dulls your senses of taste and smell. When you quit smoking, your appetite returns at the same time that your taste buds come back. Another factor is nicotine causes your body to burn slightly more calories.
The result is that after quitting, you are more hungry, food tastes better and you do not burn as many sedentary calories. Plus, your body may confuse nicotine cravings for hunger, and you may find yourself snacking on unhealthy foods as a replacement for cigarettes.