What to eat when quitting smoking

It can be so tempting to reach for snacks when fighting cigarette cravings and many people quitting fear not being able to keep extra weight off. We've collated advice from Nicotinell and the American Heart Association to provide these tips on healthy eating.

What to eat when quitting smoking

It can be so tempting to reach for snacks when fighting cigarette cravings and many people quitting fear not being able to keep extra weight off. We've collated advice from Nicotinell and the American Heart Association to provide these tips on healthy eating.

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Ready-to-eat snacks
  • Whole-wheat bread or bagel
  • Whole-grain muffin
  • Fruit such as apple, banana, peach, etc.
  • Low-fat yogurt without a lot of added sugar
  • Whole-grain cereal
  • Unsalted nuts
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Easy-to-make eats
  • Half a sandwich
  • Vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, cucumbers, green peppers, etc.
  • Popcorn (air popped, unbuttered)
  • Cut fruits, such as watermelon or pineapple
  • Fruit and yogurt smoothie
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Emergency foods

For when your mouth feels empty, like it needs a cigarette:

  • Vegetable sticks such as carrots, celery, cucumbers, green peppers, etc.
  • Sugar-free gum
  • Sugar-free hard candy
  • Sugar-free breath mints
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Frozen treats

You may feel a strong desire for sweets right after you quit smoking. Sweets can often help you fight the urge to smoke. If you crave sweets, try these:

  • Frozen bananas or grapes
  • Frozen 100% juice bars
  • No-sugar-added sherbet
  • Low-calorie ice cream bars
  • Non-fat frozen yogurt
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Grapes
Dealing with cigarette cravings after eating

Check out some tips to help subdue those after-dinner cravings.

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What happens when you stop smoking

Having a strong emotional reaction to not smoking? You’re not alone.

LEARN MORE