Why Do People Gain Weight After Quitting Smoking?
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Metabolism
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It is not uncommon for a new non-smoker to put on a few pounds, but overall health is much better off without cigarettes than without that weight. One of the reasons that quitting smoking leads to weight gain is because a pack of cigarettes burns about 250 calories, so losing a pack a day can lead to a build up of fat. In addition, cigarettes can increase metabolism, so quitting means the body needs a few days in which to compensate, which may lead to slight weight gain.
Appetite and Food
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Nicotine, the addicting drug found in cigarettes, works as an appetite-suppressor and raises blood-sugar levels, so quitting smoking can lead to a desire for increased intake of food. This is made more likely by cigarettes' ability to dull taste buds, leading to food being especially appealing to the new non-smoker.
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Mental Reasons
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Mentally, the loss of cigarettes can lead to a need for a new habit, and food can sometimes fulfill that role. But overeating has as many of the negative consequences as smoking, so maintaining a healthy diet after quitting is key to overall bodily health. If food does become a replacement habit, make sure the food is nutritiousl, and get enough exercise to justify the loss of cigarettes and an increase in food.
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