Smoking Addiction & Recovery Support Group

The CDC claims that nicotine is a "very addictive drug" that can be "as addictive as heroin or cocaine." Nicotine is typically eliminated from the body within 2 to 3 days, however, physical and psychological withdrawal symptoms may last for much longer depending on the individual. If you are trying to kick the habit, this community is dedicated to giving smokers the...

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putting on the pounds

rinkpa
rinkpa
I know we have talked about this before but I am getting sick of seeing my weight go up and up and up. I have gained 20 pounds since I quit and I could probably go back and read old posts where I said I gained 5 and then 10 and then 15 so every time I weigh myself I gain 5 pounds (good thing I don't weigh myself daily) but seriously when does this end? I am not on the perfect diet but I do eat better than I did before I quit. I used to eat a big bowl of breyers ice cream every night with the emphasis on BIG and I no longer do that I also walk every night for at least 30 minutes which I didn't do before. HELP!!!!!
deleted_user
deleted_user
I think "patience and perseverance" is the key. I have gained almost 10 pounds since the quit even though I have been running 20 minutes a day and strength training for around 40 minutes for the last 3 months.
But I am no longer worried about weight ... I feel stronger, sleep deeply and generally feel energized than before, I think weight will take care of itself if I continue on this path.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I loved the last post about feeling stronger and just plain "healthier". That is how I feel already, my lungs are cleaner and I can run faster, swim longer...even if I am 5lbs heavier. I think in time our bodies will even out and our metabolisms will get more "normal" again. I know I used to use smoking for cheating so I wouldn't eat...now I am just trying to exercise instead.
Trissa01
Trissa01
Ah-huh, I haven't gained either, or lost it already. The more I exercise the more I want to. Being healthy is more important than a number. I do eat grapes instead of chocolate.
In early quit, I just had to put anything in my mouth to fill the hole.
Some one once told me, hang on to those pounds. If you get sick, you may need them. If you get COPD or cancer or something from smoking, don't worry, you'll lose the weight, and won't be able to exercise.
And we look so beautiful as non smokers now!
deleted_user
deleted_user
putting on the pounds is what I am so afraid of...if I gain alot of weight will I go back to smoking??? has anyone done this???
deleted_user
deleted_user
I did when I quit last time but I am going to be MUCH more mindful about what I am putting into my mouth..only healthy, fresh veggies and lean protein. I am also going to keep my exercise regimen strong--5-6X a week. Last time, when I quit smoking I substituted cigs for food so I know why I gained like I did. I know that it is better for me in the long run to quit, even if the scale does go up a little at first. I think it will all even out, if we are patient and mindful of our diet/exercise plan.
deleted_user
deleted_user
I'm struggling with weight already..and only 3 months clean...I am noticing that I am eating to deal with the anxiety...I have...which I use to smoke...so now what...transfer it to eating....nope...trying to make some changes here...make decisions...and deal with things...so the anxiety doesn't get me to being out of control....leading toward depression ...this cycle is really powerful for me...and hope I can learn to appreciate it...and it will improve my life....