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.