Trying to quit smoking can be extremely tough. For some, the possibly of gaining weight adds an additional pressure, which they wish to avoid, and many even refuse to quit smoking as a result.
So why do some gain weight?
There are a number of possible reasons. With the increased ability to smell and taste, sometimes more food is eaten. Also, many substitute smoking with food, as they don’t know what to do with their mouth and hands. Nicotine is also thought to suppress appetite and increase metabolism, and therefore maintaining a low weight is less difficult.
Many people do start to lose the weight they gained as they adjust to being a nonsmoker. It is also possible to quit smoking and not gain weight. The best way to do this is to make a few diet and lifestyle changes at the time when you stop smoking.
What practical steps can you take?
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Do you find yourself wondering what to have for lunch every day? If you do, try to get into the habit of preparing lunch beforehand, this will mean that you can make lunchtime suit your own needs, rather than grabbing the first things available.
There are a number of components, which make up a healthy packed lunch. Try to include something from each of these categories:
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The theory
Advocates of detoxing suggest that our bodies can become overloaded with toxins from the substances we put into them, and also from the environment we are surrounded by. It is claimed that a detox plan can improve sluggishness, lethargy, headaches, bad breath, spots, and allergies, amongst other things. They suggest that cutting out certain foods and substances, for a specified time, will aid the liver and kidneys to cleanse itself from the inside, and as a result boost the immune system.
The science behind their claims? In short: none! However, this doesn’t stop manufacturers and various “practitioners” making ridiculous claims to the numerous health benefits of detoxing! Click to read more…
Ever wondered how you can get your kids eating more veggies? Well, a new study by the American Dietetic Association may have the answer!
Results of their 12-week study, looking at 99 children, aged 10 to 13, indicated that those who started their own school garden doubled their fruit and vegetable intake, compared with their previous consumption.
The children grew a wide variety of fruit and vegetables, and were involved in watering, weeding, and harvesting. In the classroom they also made various dishes with their produce.
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In my opinion, dessert is the perfect ending to a great meal. If you’re following a healthy diet, you may not necessarily have to avoid that delicious piece of cake, just forgo the calories by choosing desserts lower in fat and sugar.
A few examples of healthy desserts:
