I quit smoking smoking 4 months ago but have just felt miserable and out of sorts since, any advice??

Question

I quit smoking 4 months ago, was alot easier than I expected but I have gained 10 pounds (which I want to start losing) My main problem is that I have just felt yucky and blah since I quit. I feel out of sorts, like nothing is right. Generally I just feel gross (my skin, hair, nails) and physically I haven't felt good at all. I haven't felt confident or really good since I quit. Is this just part of the "withdrawals" does anyone know or have advice? I think losing the 10 pounds will help some but how can I get over the "ucks"?? Would sssoooo much appreciate any help.

Answer 1

I think part of the answer is in your question. If you've gained 10 pounds in 4 months, I have a hunch you have been eating some things you shouldn't be. Many people fulfill their cravings by eating sweets, simple sugars, junk. :)

You have amazing will power to quit smoking for 4 months, so I know you can start eating better too. Stay away from "white" foods....white bread, white sugar, potatoes, white pasta, white rice, candy, donuts, cookies...all those things that are simple carbs. They can make you feel sluggish, oily and gross. They can upset your stomach and your intestinal system.

Over the next week, try this and see if it helps. Eat whole grains, like oatmeal in the morning with some fruit like strawberries, canned peaches, bananas; have whole grains and protein at lunch, like whole grain bread with tuna fish, egg salad, lean turkey breast with romaine lettuce and a slice of tomato, and some fruit; for dinner have some lean meat or beans, or veggie burger with enriched rice, baked beans, green leafy vegetables, broccoli. For snacks have some yogurt with fruit, celery stuffed with peanut butter, cubes of cheese, veggies and dip.

If you increase the proteins and cut down on the carbs, you will feel more energized, cleaner and healthier. It takes a bit of work to eat right, but it has a tremendous effect on how you feel.

Remember to drink lots of fluids too. It will help you hair, skin and nails to look and feel better.

Take a walk for 20-30 minutes every single day. If you can't do it outside because of weather, stop at the mall and walk around, or go to a Y or health club; or get a treadmill for your home. That will help you feel less blah, get your circulation going, help your body secrete the "feel good" hormones so you have more energy and a feeling of well being.

The withdrawal symptoms are probably almost gone, but you've replaced one bad habit with a couple others. They may not be as unhealthy as smoking, but they can greatly affect how you feel.

I know you can get up the energy and take the steps to get yourself moving and healthier. After a couple months of this, it will be Spring, you will have lost those 10 pounds, and you'll have a better outlook on life. Good luck to you!!!!

Answer 2

The reason you feel miserable has nothing to do with stopping smoking. The weight gain could be the cause of a sluggish feeling. Excersize can help you to feel more energetic and at the same time it can help you lose weight. You can do it.

Answer 3

Honey, I'm sooo proud that you have quit smoking. I know it isn't easy, but believe me in the long run it will save your life. So many people I love have died from smoking. My mother, two brothers, two sister-in-laws, numerous uncles. You may have gained weight which you can lose. It's better to need to lose weight than lose your life. Please know that I care and I'll be praying for you. If you can quit for four months you can quit forever. GIRL POWER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Answer 4

Just hang in there -- you'll start to feel better, your body just has to get used to living without tobacco.

Answer 5

You need to workout everyday.......You will start feeling better about yourself immediately.......