Publications
You want to quit smoking but you don't want to get fat. It can really be done. Here are some tips to achieve this.
-
Ensure that you have low GI, low-fat foods available that are easy to prepare. For example, delicious fruits, crackers and fat-free cottage cheese.
When snacking choose healthier options such as fresh fruit, fat free yoghurts, air-popped popcorn and raw vegetables. - If you have a craving for crunchy food, then try fat-free pretzels, raw carrots or celery sticks instead of potato crisps.
- Smoking will need to be replaced with other activities, keep your hands busy, try doodling, working puzzles, knitting or playing with straws.
- Reward yourself with non-food items. For example, an item of clothing or a day at the movies, if you’ve had a smoke-free day.
- Chewing sugar-free gum may help reduce cravings.
- As soon as a meal is finished, leave the table and brush your teeth.
- Involve yourself in activities that are do not remind you of smoking, such as walking.
- Get sufficient sleep. Being tired can encourage one to smoke.
- Reduce stress and tension.
- Avoid alcohol. Alcoholic beverages are high in energy, and drinking can lead to a lack of self-control.
- Avoid caffeine. Caffeine can enhance the withdrawal symptoms.
- Try keeping a food diary for five days prior to quitting. Continue with this diary once you have quit. Compare the two. This will help you identify trigger times and foods, so as to assist in monitoring your food consumption during the times you would normally be smoking.
To quit smoking is very difficult. It takes motivation and determination. There will probably be many times when "one more drag" seems to be the answer, but persevere – the benefits are worth it.
Weight Less press release
(Health24, May 2012)
Read more:
SA set to go 100% smoke-free
Need more reason to quit?
