Facts

"People gain weight when they quit smoking."

This is true, but not the whole truth. The majority of those who quit smoking do gain weight, usually less than 10 pounds. However, not everyone does gain weight. Being more physically active can prevent weight gain. The use of medications and/or nicotine replacement (such as nicotine gum) also helps. More importantly, the benefits of quitting smoking far outweigh the health risk of weight gain. Besides, you can build on your success. If you can quit smoking, you can lose weight later.

"I am to old to quit now."

Older smokers are 50% more likely than any other age group to quit smoking successfully. Wisdom accompanies age and that can be a powerful tool to help you quit.

"I can't quit, I've tried too many times already and it hasn't worked."

The average smoker has 5 to 7 attempts before permanently quitting. It takes as long as it takes. Keep trying until you find a way to quit for good.

"Quitting smoking is uncomfortable."

This is true. However, it is short-term discomfort that improves over time. Lung cancer is much more uncomfortable.

"My grandmother smoked until she was 95, and she was never sick!."

Your grandmother was very lucky, but she was an exception to the rule. Is this really a chance you want to take?

"If i gain weight, I will be less attractive."

Think about this for a moment. First, nonsmokers often find smokers unattractive. Second, premature aging, yellow teeth and cigarette odor are not attractive. Third, do the benefits of being thin outweigh the risks of lung cancer and other smoking-related diseases?