$Unique_ID{BRK01225}
$Pretitle{Community and Social Problems}
$Title{Weight Gain After Quitting Smoking}
$Subject{diet smoking weight}
$Volume{Q-26}
$Log{
The Effects of Smoking-I*0007301.scf
The Effects of Smoking-II*0007302.scf}

Copyright (c) 1991   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Weight Gain After Quitting Smoking


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QUESTION:  Now that smoking is socially unacceptable around my house, I am
losing another battle as well, My weight is surging upwards, something I have
tried to avoid for my entire adult life.  What's a woman to do?  I think I
would rather be a thin smoker taking my chances than look like I do now.  Can
you please figure a way out for me?

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ANSWER:  Most experts will agree that, while the amount varies considerably
from a low of nothing at all to an unacceptable high, most people who finally
stop smoking will average a weight gain of from two to ten pounds in the month
that follows quitting.  But the risks of that additional unwanted weight is
little compared to the many health risks provoked by continued smoking.  And
you can get rid of the extra weight.  Many people crave high calorie sweets
when they come off of smoking, so find some low calorie food that will help.
Even chewing gum can help you here.  If you can add about an hour a day of
some brisk activity (yes, fast walking counts) you can probably stem the tide
of weight gain, and get things back to normal in a few weeks time.  However,
under no circumstances should you start smoking again as an answer to your
controllable weight gain.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace 
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your 
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical 
problem.
