Going Cold Turkey ≠a Weight Gain
Are you a cigarette smoker that wants to quit but has let the fear of weight gain keep you from reaching your goal? It's a fear for many smokers, but the experts at the American Heart Association tell us that you can quit smoking and keep the scales from going up.On Thursday, November 18th (Great American Smoke Out) throw that pack of smokes in the trash and join the ranks of non-smokers. By Friday, November 19th you'll be on the road to better health, more wealth (think of all the money you'll save when you aren't buying cigarettes) and no fear of weight gain now that you're armed with these practical tips from the experts:
- Plan healthy meals & snacks - having this done for the week will help reduce the amount of time you have to think about food each day. Do yourself a favor and get rid of all the tempting high-calorie, high-fat snacks and sweets. Fill your pantry & fridge with healthy foods and snacks.
- Portion, slow down & move away from the table - that's the way to approach meals. Put a portion of each food on your plate and put the leftovers away. Chew slowly, put your fork down often, and avoid distractions (no TV or computer). When you're almost full or the food is gone, clean up and get out of the kitchen.
- Keep a supply of sugarless gum and hard candy made with artificial sweeteners. This can help you avoid high-calorie snacks & sweets when you get an oral craving.
- Limit alcoholic beverages - not only do they have lots of empty calories, they can also reduce your determination & resolve to stop smoking. In addition, many people pair alcohol with cigarettes.
- Get some exercise - it burns calories, helps you control stress, and reduces cravings to smoke. And you can't eat (or smoke) when you are taking a brisk walk!
.