Exercise Reduces Cravings for Nicotine
When the urge to smoke hits, take a quick walk around the block or participate in another physical activity of your choice. It will reduce or eliminate tobacco cravings quickly.
Exercise Releases Dopamine in the Brain
Research has shown that nicotine elevates the level of dopamine in the brain, a neurotransmitter that is responsible for improving mood and sense of well-being. Physical exercise also releases dopamine and is a great way to change mindset and beat the urge to smoke.
Exercise Helps with Weight Management
Exercises Contribute to Smoking Cessation
Many of us gain a little weight when we quit smoking. In part, this is due to the changes in metabolism that can come with smoking cessation. Weight gain can also occur because we feel compelled to replace the hand-to-mouth activity that smoking is with something else. That “something” is often food.
When we exercise, our bodies break down fat and release it into the bloodstream. This reduces feelings of hunger and helps us control the urge to snack that is common early on in cessation.
Exercise Reinforces the Value of Smoking Cessation
Smoking negatively affects our health. When we stop smoking, these health deficits often begin to turn around and we quickly notice improvements in breathing, stamina and strength when exercising. It’s a boost that helps keep us pointed in the right direction.
Work on incorporating a little bit of exercise into your daily life and build on it as time goes by. It will make you stronger and keep you in touch with the value that smoking cessation has for your body and mind.
