From Thyroid to Stress: 13 Hidden Reasons Behind Unexplained Weight Gain

Interestingly, quitting smoking often leads to temporary weight gain. Nicotine suppresses appetite and increases dopamine, so when it’s removed, cravings—particularly for sugar and starch—may rise. While this can be discouraging, the long-term health benefits of quitting far outweigh the short-term weight changes. Strategies like exercise and mindfulness can help stabilize eating patterns during this transition.