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Embarking on a journey to quit smoking is a commendable decision, but it comes with unique challenges. While adopting healthier habits is essential, understanding and avoiding trigger foods can greatly contribute to the success of a smoke-free lifestyle.
Ekta Singhwal, a nutritionist at Ujala Cygnus Hospital Group, explained that certain foods contain trace amounts of nicotine. “Although the levels are much lower than in cigarettes, ingesting tobacco can cause a mild nicotine response,” she says.
She added that foods high in sugar can contribute to weight gain, a common concern when quitting smoking.
Understand trigger foods
Trigger foods are foods that, when consumed, can cause strong cravings or associations with smoking. Identifying and avoiding these triggers is critical to maintaining a smoke-free lifestyle. Let’s take a closer look at some common trigger foods and why they can be a challenge for those trying to quit smoking.
Too much caffeine
Trigger description: Caffeine and nicotine often go hand in hand. For many smokers, a cup of coffee and a cigarette is a familiar ritual. Consuming too much caffeine can rekindle your cravings.
Alternative proposal: Opt for herbal teas, decaffeinated coffee, or gradually reduce your caffeine intake to minimize triggers.
alcohol
Trigger description: Alcohol and smoking are often interrelated. Alcohol’s relaxing effects weaken inhibitions, making it harder to resist the urge to smoke.
Alternative proposal: During the initial stages of quitting smoking, choose non-alcoholic drinks or limit your alcohol intake.
sweet snack
Trigger description: Some people associate smoking with satisfying oral needs. Eating sugary snacks can have similar effects to smoking.
Alternative proposal: To deal with oral fixation without triggering the urge to smoke, choose healthier snacks such as fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
fatty foods
Trigger description: Certain fatty foods may be associated with increased stress and may cause cravings for cigarettes as a stress relief mechanism.
Alternative proposal: Eat a balanced diet rich in whole foods to support overall health and reduce stress.
Spicy food
Trigger description: For some people, the enhanced taste and sensation of spicy foods brings back memories of smoking.
Alternative proposal: Try milder flavors and gradually reintroduce spicy options as your appetite decreases.
By being mindful of the association between certain foods and smoking triggers, individuals can make informed choices and replace old habits with healthier alternatives.
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Originally uploaded to: May 1, 2024 18:20 IST
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