Kettering Registered Respiratory Practice Exam

Weight gain is often seen in individuals participating in smoking cessation programs primarily due to a decrease in metabolism. When a person stops smoking, their body may experience changes in metabolic rate as it adapts to functioning without nicotine. Nicotine is known to have a stimulatory effect on metabolism, and when that is removed, metabolic processes can slow down. This reduction in metabolic rate may make it more challenging for individuals to maintain their previous weight as they may not burn calories as efficiently as they did while smoking.

In addition to metabolic changes, individuals may also find that their appetite increases after quitting, which can further contribute to weight gain. The combination of a slowed metabolism and potentially increased caloric intake often leads to weight gain among those who are trying to quit smoking.