IS WEIGHT-GAIN AFTER SMOKING CESSATION INEVITABLE

Weight gain after smoking cessation was studied in a naturalistic sett ing where (1) all smokers quit and (b) risk factors for postcessation weight gain were modified. Participants were 332 military recruits (22 7 men, 105 women), 86 of whom were smokers who quit during 6 weeks of basic training. Results showed no significant weight changes for smoke rs who quit. Pretest smoking rates and feat of weight gain were unrela ted to changes in weight. Results suggest that an intensive program th at limits access to alcohol and foods that are high in fat and that in creases physical activity can attenuate weight gain after smoking cess ation.