So I quit smoking.......

branflakes1980
branflakes1980 Posts: 2,516 Member
edited November 16 in Health and Weight Loss
I quit smoking, its been alittle over a month. I have gained 4 lbs. My weight fluctuates usually but this 4 lbs stuck even after the "Monthly fluctuations". I read somewhere that the only reason someone would gain weight from quitting smoking is when that person replaces the cigarettes with food. I can assure you this is not the case as I weigh, measure and properly log everything I eat. I am not worried about the 4 pounds in any way, I am just wondering if there is a logical (maybe even scientific) reason for this. Anyone? Thanks in advance.

Replies

  • SezxyStef
    SezxyStef Posts: 15,267 Member
    Yes...nicotine does increase your metabolism...I am not sure if it has lowered it enough for 4lbs but there is some evidence that weight gain from quitting isn't just from increase intake.

    I quit too...but did replacement with a vaporizer so I am still getting my nicotine.
  • suruda
    suruda Posts: 1,233 Member
    Congratulations on quitting smoking! I have nothing to offer on the mysterious 4 lbs BUT just had to congratulate you on quitting!
  • branflakes1980
    branflakes1980 Posts: 2,516 Member
    suruda wrote: »
    Congratulations on quitting smoking! I have nothing to offer on the mysterious 4 lbs BUT just had to congratulate you on quitting!

    Thanks :smiley:

  • zyxst
    zyxst Posts: 9,149 Member
    This is just me pulling it out of my butt, so get the salt shaker ready. Possible your body is holding onto water/nutrients to heal up from the smoking damage.
  • snowflakesav
    snowflakesav Posts: 649 Member
    I lost weight when I quit. I became so agitated that I was trying to keep myself busy cleaning out closets. Smokers metabolism is partly about all the time spent standing outside smoking. Focus on your level of movement. Get a fitbit if you need to. Get busy.
  • branflakes1980
    branflakes1980 Posts: 2,516 Member
    edited April 2015
    My 15 year old son said "maybe its because smoking increases your blood pressure and now that you quit your blood is pumping slower, and your not burning as many calories"? After much contemplation, this could make sense, not sure about 4 lbs worth of sense but I was impressed with his response. Just wanted to know if anyone here (I have seen quite a few posts from people who know alot about what seems to be everything) had any clue or any sceintific reason for this.
  • crazyjerseygirl
    crazyjerseygirl Posts: 1,252 Member
    Congratulations to all who quit!
    I've no other info, just wanted to congratulate and praise your sensible approach to this situation.
  • branflakes1980
    branflakes1980 Posts: 2,516 Member
    I lost weight when I quit. I became so agitated that I was trying to keep myself busy cleaning out closets. Smokers metabolism is partly about all the time spent standing outside smoking. Focus on your level of movement. Get a fitbit if you need to. Get busy.

    Thank you for your input. I am well past the agitation state now, I still have a craving here or there but that need to constantly keep myself busy so I don't want to smoke is long gone. At first it most definitely was there and I did the same thing, my house has never been more spotless. LOL! I also guarantee a lack of movement or "getting busy" as you put it was the culprit as I have 2 very active kids to keep up with, and a very hectic busy lifestyle.

  • branflakes1980
    branflakes1980 Posts: 2,516 Member
    Congratulations to all who quit!
    I've no other info, just wanted to congratulate and praise your sensible approach to this situation.

    Thank you, I appreciate that!

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