Quitting Smoking Without Gaining Weight

You Can Do It! Many people are able to stop smoking and maintain their weight. You can too.

• Plan to quit when food will be less of an issue, like holidays or special events.
• Make you quit day during a low stress time.
• For the fi rst couple of weeks, avoid parties. (Places where you may be tempted to smoke and to eat more.)
• Remember, alcohol is a trigger and high in calories.

Be careful not to substitute food for cigarettes. Instead of eating, distract yourself by: calling a friend, reading, taking a walk, drawing or knitting. If you must put something in your mouth, try a toothpick or sugarless gum.

Watch out for stress.

• Instead of reaching for a cigarette or food when you get stressed, take a deep breath.
• Meditate. And be positive. You are doing something wonderful for yourself by quitting, be proud.

Look for ways to reduce cravings.

• Consider using a nicotine gum or patch. They will help reduce the cravings for cigarettes and may help you avoid weight gain.
• Drink water.
• If you are craving sugar while quitting, try using artifi cial sweeteners or sugarless gum.

Increase your activity.

• You may need to exercise more to keep you weight the same while quitting.
• Take the stairs if you can.
• Add a new or fun activity to your week; swim, ride a bike or play tennis.

Get Support. Ask your family and friends for support. Consider joining a stop smoking program or support group. Ask a your doctor for help in planning a sensible eating plan that’s right for you. For free help quitting go to www.TryToStopNH.org or call 1-800-Try-To-STOP (1-800-879-8679)

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