We all have different reasons for quitting smoking or vaping. Discover your reason.
Why quitQuitting is a journey and, with the right plan and support, you can achieve your goal.
How to quitQuitting can take practice. Keep up your quitting journey to break free from smoking or vaping for good.
Staying quitTalking to someone about quitting can be challenging, but with the right information you can help them take positive action for their wellbeing.
Helping othersSpeak directly with a trained quit counsellor. Our team are available to provide confidential and free support, a quit plan tailored just for you, and answer all your questions.
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Last updated May 2025
Read time 2 minutes
But weight gain when you quit is not a given, and research shows you reduce serious risks to your health when you quit, even if you gain weight. Let's look into it.
In people who do gain a little weight when quitting, weight gain tends to happen more in the first three months after stopping smoking, and then slows down.
Nicotine slightly speeds up your metabolism. After quitting your metabolism may slow down to a healthier, more normal rate which may lead to some weight gain.
You may feel hungrier than normal in the first weeks of quitting due to nicotine withdrawal, though this will decrease over time.
Plan your meals and snacks ahead of time: stock up on healthy foods like fruit, vegetables and nuts. Remove or reduce processed snacks (e.g. chips, biscuits, lollies, soft drink) in the pantry or fridge. Try to keep most of your eating to meals, whenever possible. For more tips read the Healthy eating when quitting smoking and vaping fact sheet.
Do some exercise you enjoy: this may help keep your weight down and also act as a distraction to beat cravings.
Chat with Quitline 13 7848: Quitline counsellors have tips for managing weight gain. See how Quitline can help.
If you're worried about gaining weight and it's stopping you from quitting, talk to your doctor. They can help you make a healthy eating and exercise plan that suits your lifestyle. Your doctor can also refer you to a dietitian or other specialist.
Speak directly with a trained quit specialist. Our counsellors are available to provide immediate support, personalised quit plans, and answer all your questions.
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If you're worried about gaining weight and it's stopping you from quitting, talk to your doctor.
