Quit smoking, gain weight: Is it inevitable?

Is weight gain inevitable after you quit smoking? What causes this?

- Charlie / Minnesota

Answer

Gaining weight after you quit smoking is fairly common due to several factors. The average weight gain in ex-smokers is between 5 and 15 pounds. However, the health benefits of quitting smoking far exceed the problems associated with adding a few extra pounds. Lung damage is irreversible; weight gain is not.

Part of the reason for the weight gain is that nicotine slightly raises your metabolism. When you quit smoking, your metabolism slows down, which means you burn fewer calories. Also, your ability to smell and taste food improves after you quit smoking. So, food may be more appealing to you, leading you to eat more. Another reason for weight gain is that some people snack as a substitute for smoking — and these calories can quickly add up.

Keep in mind that most weight gain occurs within six months after you quit smoking. Many people start to lose the weight they gained as they adjust to being a nonsmoker.

It is possible to quit smoking and not gain weight. The best way to do this is to make diet and lifestyle changes at the same time that you stop smoking.

Develop a regular exercise routine. Also, avoid increasing your intake of food and snacks to replace smoking. If it helps, keep a diary of the foods you eat every day. Also, if you miss having something to do with your mouth and hands after quitting smoking, try chewing on toothpicks, straws, fat-free pretzels, carrots, celery or sugar-free mints.

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