Worried about gaining weight?

Many people put off quitting because they fear gaining weight. Health Canada says most people gain about 4 to 6 kg (8 to 13 lb), but not everyone does, and the health risks of smoking are far greater than the risks of a small weight gain.

Ways to keep it small:

• Keep healthy snacks ready: cut vegetables, fruit, unsalted nuts in small portions.
• Drink water, especially when a craving hits.
• Walk every day. Many people find it helps with both weight and cravings.
• If you want to change how you eat, start a few weeks before your quit date, so you aren’t changing everything at once.

Quit first, then deal with any extra kilos. Your lungs and heart will thank you either way.