The nicotine in cigarette smoke stimulates some of the same receptors in our brains that respond to phentermine and the fenfluramines , the components of the weight-loss medicines that were recently withdrawn from the market because of cardiac side effects. Once the craving for cigarettes is behind you, you will be better able to focus on shedding those extra pounds. In the meantime, try walking. Every time you have the urge to puff, dodge the temptation by going for a brisk 10-minute walk. If you have gotten into the habit of reaching for candy or junk food instead of cigarettes all day at work, try eating healthy snacks like carrots or pretzels instead.
Drinking water can also aid in weight loss and helps reduce cravings.
You could also take some of the money you are saving by quitting smoking and reward yourself with a membership to a local fitness club. SIDS Research suggests that infants are more likely to die of SIDS if their mothers smoke during pregnancy and after delivery. Between 200,000 and one million children with asthma have their condition worsened by exposure to second-hand smoke. Exposure to second-hand smoke also increases the risk of pneumonia, bronchitis, and ear infections.