Heart Disease

Many people who are considering quitting smoking are very concerned about gaining weight. If you are concerned about weight gain, please keep in mind that quitting does not mean that you will automatically gain weight. Weight gain often is due to eating more once you have quit. Here are some tips to help you avoid gaining weight:

• Eat a well-balanced diet, with the proper amounts of protein, carbohydrates, and fat. You may want to discuss with your physician what a good diet would be for you.
  
  
• Plan menus carefully and count calories. Do not try to lose weight; simply try to maintain your weight.
  
  
• Do not set your target date for quitting for a holiday, when the temptation of high-calorie food and drinks may be too hard to resist.
  
  
• Drink a glass of water before each meal. This will help you to feel "full" and eat less.
  
  
• Chew sugarless gum when you crave something sweet.
  
  
• Keep low-calorie snacks available. Foods that are both nutritious and low in calories are the best choice, such as fruit, low-fat cottage cheese, and air-popped popcorn without butter.
  
  
• Exercise daily or join an exercise group.
  
  
• Weigh yourself weekly, to see how you are doing.