Tackling Weight Gain 

Once you stop smoking you may put on weight, but don’t worry – you can keep it to a minimum. Here are some handy tips.

Healthy body, healthy mind

Exercise is a great way to distract yourself from the cravings. So take brisk walks, swim at your local pool or go for a jog in the park.

Eat yourself healthy

Keep your mouth occupied with healthy, crunchy snacks like carrot or celery sticks. Why not keep a bowlful on your desk at work?

Fight the hunger

Smoking cessation products such as patches and pouches can be used by people who smoke within 30 minutes of waking. These lozenges can help you control your weight whilst quitting by curbing your increased appetite. They stay in your mouth for up to 30 minutes so help you avoid snacking.

Water, water everywhere

Dehydration makes nicotine withdrawal symptoms even worse, so keep drinking. Water will also fill you up and so help you fight off hunger.

A good night’s sleep

Your body needs to recuperate to build up energy. If you don’t get enough sleep you’ll need to find energy from somewhere else – like more food!

Breaking the habit

Alcohol is high in calories and many smokers associate it with smoking. So anything you can do to cut back is a good idea.

Tone up at home

There are lots of simple exercises you can do at home to burn off the calories. Try using a couple of soup cans as makeshift dumb-bells!

Keep your mouth busy

Next time you’re tempted to snack on something sweet, try sucking on sugar-free boiled sweets or chewing gum.

A calming influence

Taking up yoga or Pilates isn’t just a great way to stay in shape – it can also keep you calm when the cravings hit. Find out where your nearest class is.