We already know that tobacco smoking
can lead to lung cancer, coronary heart disease and other serious medical
issues. We also know that exposure to second-hand smoke negatively affects other
non-smokers. Quitting smoking is a sensible and healthy option, so what's
holding you back? Is it the fear of
gaining weight? You are not alone…
Weight gain is a common reason
why people shy away from quitting smoking. Here is some information you should
know about quitting smoking and weight gain.
Nicotine
suppresses hunger by switching off the receptors associated with appetite and
food intake. Also, time spent puffing on a cigarette is time spent not snacking. On average,
people who quit smoking gain about 10 pounds.
Tobacco cessation program staff are trying to
tackle the problem of weight gain associated with quitting smoking with a holistic
model by addressing both nutritional factors and tobacco cessation. A local Montgomery County program implemented by Mercy Health and administered by Health Promotion Council, exemplifies
this new integrated model. The cessation
counselors regularly give nutrition counseling to clients in their smoking
cessation program. Cessation counselors across the United States are adopting
this integrated approach dedicated to keeping patients healthy, nutrition-oriented,
smoke-free, and active.
Dr. Jeffrey Wigand
(tobacco industry whistleblower depicted in the movie The Insider) who
is currently working to assist Australia, New Zealand and Canadian cities to go tobacco-free states:
“Successful
tobacco addiction treatment should be approached holistically where all body
systems are addressed. Like other addictions, it permanently transforms
brain circuitry (neurochemistry), affects appetite and dietary choices as well
as alters the user's ability to exercise. Having accurate vital statistics
assists the counselor to better understand and treat the individual more
effectively in an integrated manner. Nutrition is especially critical
because many nicotine dependent individuals shy away from help for fear of
gaining weight. By simply measuring a client's height, weight, blood
pressure and body fat on each visit, treatment is more tailored leading to
greater awareness of nutritional needs and restrictions for clients. The
expected outcome is less weight gain, increased ability to exercise and better
overall health....most important of which is a better outcome in the treatment
of the underlying addiction. Behavior modification is critical for the
management of nicotine addiction.”
