How to Quit Smoking and Keep Your Weight Down

First and foremost don't expect to be able to quit smoking and maintain a rigid diet at the same time. Quitting smoking takes a lot of energy and concentration.

It is often best to focus on one thing and then the other. The first few non-smoking days should focus more on kicking the habit than maintaining your diet regime.

That said it is important you eat healthy just don't expect to be able to shed significant pounds during those first few days.

It is important to understand why you smoked and knowing what your smoking triggers were can make a big difference when trying to quit for good. Once you understand why you smoked, you can then better recognize trigger situations and opt for something other than a cigarette.

For instance if you found that smoking picked you up then try washing your face with cold water, take a walk outdoors or get involved in some form of exercise.

And if you routinely enjoyed a cigarette with your morning coffee try altering your routine and drinking tea instead.

In addition to changing your routine you may benefit from changing your environment. Making a few small changes here and there can really make it easier to quit smoking for good. For instance eat breakfast in a different place and get rid of all ash trays in your home, car, and workplace.

As I've said it's wise to save your real weight loss efforts for when you have gained confidence as a non-smoker.

In the meantime, take a lesson from your past. If you've tried to quit before and were unsuccessful, use that experience to make this current attempt a success.

What happened last time?

Did you have difficulty handling your cravings?

Did you constantly find yourself in situations that triggered smoking?

Did you continue to spend time with people who smoked?

And finally, did you gain weight?

If so, consider your answers and ask yourself what you are going to do differently this time to make your quit smoking commitment a reality.

In an effort to help you along the way here are a few tips to help you eat sensibly while you're quitting.

Have lots of healthy foods nearby. This will help keep your hands busy and also ensure that you are making wise food choices. Consider low calorie and low fat choices like carrot and celery sticks, unbuttered air popped popcorn, and rice cakes. Snacking on frozen grapes is also a good idea since the process of eating takes longer and keeps you occupied. The same goes for sunflower or pumpkin seeds in the shell.

It's important to select foods that you enjoy eating and that you find a good substitute for your cigarettes. Deriving pleasure from the food you eat will go along way to helping you find a satisfying replacement to lighting up.

Never skip breakfast! Always eat several small meals throughout the day. By eating frequently you keep your mouth busy and prevent the hunger pangs that often lead to overeating.

Load up on citrus. Many experts believe that fruits high in vitamin C like oranges and grapefruit may reduce withdrawal symptoms. So start your day with half a grapefruit or an orange. Keep citrus food in mind for snacks as well.