Substituting food for your fix? - WSET.com - ABC13

By Lori Storm
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So you want to quit smoking, but you're afraid you'll gain weight. You don't have to. It is normal for appetite to increase and metabolism to slow down, which may be why the average quitter puts on between four and 10 pounds. Another reason for weight gain: the hand-to-mouth habit that smokers develop. Use these tips to help you curb calories while you kick the habit.

Swap It Out: Replace high-fat foods like fries and chips with lower-calorie baked versions.

Chew On This: Pop in a stick of gum, sugar-free candy or mints to keep your mouth busy.

Take Your Time: Choose foods that take longer to eat and keep your hands occupied, such as oranges or sunflower seeds in the shell.

Add Some Fizz: Stimulate your taste buds by sipping bubbly seltzer water with a wedge of lime, instead of reaching for a cocktail.

Talk with your doctor about quitting smoking, too, and ask how exercise can also be a part of your healthier routine.

View the original Substituting food for your fix? article on myOptumHealth.com