Quitting and weight gain - Smoking Cessation Message Board

Kemi · 10-23-2002, 04:37 PM

I am so happy that I quit, I can't even begin to explain what an amazing feeling it is. It is wonderful, and more than I ever expected! On the down side, I have gain a bit of weight. I quit using a combination of the patch and an anti depressant called Celexa. Quitting, as well as the medication, and I've gaing so far 20 lbs. To me that is devistating. I guess on the positive side it has got me to examine my eating and excercise habits. I didn't anticipate this weight gain because I thought you gained after quitting just by over compensating with more food. This is not the case. Smoking, a stimulant, increases your metabolism and can burn up to 200 calories a day. You need to either knock out 200 calories out of your diet, or work off 200 calories by exercising.

I really just wanted to let people know that before you quit, you should think about how you are not going to gain.

Also, to anyone that has quit and gained, Did you lose the weight alright? Hope so!

rhlomax · 10-23-2002, 09:49 PM

Kemi,
Congratulations! I was a long time smoker and yes, indeed, I gained weight. You're correct about it being more than just compensating with additional food. I finally started an exercise program that I'm still fairly faithful to. I'm healthier than I ever was when I was smoking and keeping the weight off, too. Don't ever think about taking up the weed again to get weight off. 200 calories is pretty easy to make up. Good luck!

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Rich

orli · 10-24-2002, 08:57 AM

Hey Kemi, congrats! I too gained 20 lbs when I quit, I have lost about 15 of it but my weight seems to have shifted over the past few years. I now have a little belly but, in the long run I'd rather have a few extra pounds than black lungs. I will lose the extra few pounds soon enough but in the meantime, enjoy your success!

Kemi · 10-24-2002, 01:24 PM

Thanks guys! You know I can't handle the weight gain, but it is my time to get my behing on the treadmill. I can actually run now. Even if I'm only up to 5 minutes, I could of never even thought about running when I was smoking. I agree that I would rather be a few xtra pounds as opposed to being a smoker. My mindset has changed so much. It may be a bit early to say this, but I really think I have 100% quit for good.

orli · 10-25-2002, 07:57 AM

It is amazing the change in physical health. Even small things like walking up stairs and not being out of breath at the top! I find once you start running... it's amazing how quickly it gets easier! Good luck!