Research from the University of Navarra reveals that neither continuing to smoke nor quitting prevents weight gain. Both active smokers and those who quit face elevated risks of gaining weight.
Many smokers hesitate to quit due to fears of packing on extra pounds, believing cigarettes help maintain their weight. This common myth is now dispelled by solid evidence.
In a rigorous study tracking 7,565 participants over more than 50 months, researchers found that smokers gained more weight than non-smokers. Those who attempted to quit during the study gained slightly more weight than active smokers.
That said, smoking is never a viable weight management strategy. It heightens risks of cardiovascular problems from nicotine and the additional weight gain it accompanies.
