The new year is upon us and between hoovering up the pine needles from the Christmas tree, packing away the decorations for another year, and scoffing the last of the chocs, our attention may turn to resolutions for 2025.
For the smokers among us, ditching the cigarettes might be top of the list. In 2023, 15 per cent of adults in Scotland identified as current smokers, which is the same proportion as in 2022, according to Scottish Government statistics.
Many Scots may not realise the food we eat can inform how easy or hard it is to quit smoking. In fact, there are certain items that can help expedite the process, and equally foods that can set us back on that journey.
David Phillips, of Vape Superstore, has picked out some foods that are ideal for when you are trying to kick the habit – and others that won’t help you out.
Best foods for quitting smoking
Popcorn and small snacks
You may be twiddling your thumbs – quite literally – as you no longer have anything to do with your hands and mouth. With this in mind, popcorn or low-calorie snacks will keep them busy. The saltiness can also help you feel full.
Cinnamon sticks
Similar to popcorn, cinnamon sticks can help keep your hands and mouth busy by sucking on cinnamon sticks. This is a less calorific way to get a nice taste of something.
Fibre-rich foods
Quitting smoking is often associated with weight gain because you’re used to nicotine, which suppresses your appetite and enhances your metabolism. A study has shown that including high-fibre foods, such as broccoli, raspberries and artichokes, into your diet when you’re quitting smoking can ensure you don’t add the pounds on.
Easy-to-make or ready-to-eat snacks
Shake that feeling of restlessness and stock up on simple foods that make your life easier. Fruit, vegetable sticks, sandwiches or emergency foods such as sugar-free gum or sweets can help tackle the cravings.
Worst foods for quitting smoking
Sugary foods
According to research, avoiding sugary foods will aid your addiction as they make you crave cigarettes more.
Meats and alcohol
Meat and alcohol make cigarettes taste better, which is something you’ll want to avoid noticing when trying to quit smoking. Alcohol can also put you in social situations where you feel like you need to smoke due to association.
Coffee
Caffeine can help you feel more stimulated and therefore might crave the addition of nicotine. You’d likely smoke whilst having a cup of coffee, so try to break that association – swap to tea for a few weeks instead.”
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