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In this Article

• Will I gain weight if I stop smoking?
• What causes weight gain after quitting?
• Can I avoid weight gain?
• Accept yourself
• Get regular, moderate-intensity physical activity
• Limit snacking and alcohol
• Consider using medication to help you quit
• Consider getting professional advice about weight control
• Will weight gain hurt my health?
• Weight Control and Smoking Cessation Glossary
• Weight Control and Smoking Cessation Index
• Find a local Family Physician in your town

Will weight gain hurt my health?

Although gaining weight is not desired after you stop smoking, keep in mind that the overall health benefits of quitting outweigh the health risks of weight gain.

Health Risks of Smoking

• Cancer. Smoking greatly increases the risk of lung cancer, the leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Smoking is also linked to cancer of the esophagus, larynx, kidney, pancreas, and cervix.
  
  
• Other health problems. Smoking increases the risk of lung disease and heart disease. In pregnant women, smoking is linked to premature birth, low birth weight babies, and delivery complications

By quitting smoking, you are taking a big step to improve your health. Instead of worrying about weight gain, focus on quitting. Once you are tobacco-free, you can work toward having a healthy weight for life by becoming more physically active and choosing healthier foods.

SOURCE: National Institutes of Health