katmelsha, good for you for trying again -it often takes smokers many times before they can quit for good, but if they keep trying, they make it.

There are some really good tips on how to deal with the process and fight craving in these links...

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/content/PED_10_13X_Help_for_Cravings.asp?sitearea=PED

http://www.cancer.org/docroot/PED/content/PED_10_13X_Guide_for_Quitting_Smoking.asp

Quitting smoking causes weight gain only if you eat food as a substitute for smoking. If you maintain your diet, it doesn't cause weight gain. Calories are needed for weight gain.

Best bet: Look at developing a healthy diet. Post thyroid eating increases - appetite is up and metabolism is down.

Lower your starch intake and raise your green veggies. Drop all saturated fats or at least use lower fat butter. It tastes so bad, you will use far less of it! Quit fried foods or saute in olive oil. Tell McDonalds to go away. never eat in any fast food place. They are a guaranteed place to gain weight.

Replace smoking with lots of water and citrus juices. Eat fruits and veggies if you have a craving.

There is a simple formula: If you want to live to see that little boy have his own little boy, don't go back to smoking. if you already lost your thyroid, it says you are not in perfect health. Smoking attacks you wherever it finds a weakness. Tell me, did you ever see anyone smoking and looking healthy at the same time?

Best of luck. Now I've been smoke free longer than you have been living ... and I'm obviously still living! My doctor told me I have the heart of a twenty-five year old and I told him that she said I could keep it as long as I treated her nicely.

Hi alll, It has been a year and 3 days since I had a cig its tough but it can be done, I used chantix

tony

katmelsha, how are you doing with it? Did you make it through the holidays? hope so...

Its easy! I've done it a hundred times!

Hi,

Yes, I made it through the holidays. I actually ended up sick with bronchitis They put me on amoxycillin which I ended up with a reaction to (a sunburn like sensation on my lower body). I am hoping I get feeling better soon as my husband and I have plans next weekend for a get away for our anniversary. Not smoking, hasnt been to difficult. I havent gained any weight thankfully! Once it gets a bit warmer here, I really want to start walking again. Maybe even jogging as I will be able to breath! My four year old loves to run so he can be my running partner.

I am so glad you are doing well. Today is my father's oncologist's birthday (we are still in touch) so I am extra happy to hear about someone kicking the habit.