The relationship between quitting smoking and weight loss is complex, with both challenges and benefits to consider.
For employers aiming to curb the rising costs of GLP-1 medications while supporting employees in achieving a healthy weight, it’s essential to recognize the strong connection between quitting smoking and weight loss. Smoking and obesity remain the two leading preventable causes of illness and death in the U.S.—addressing both simultaneously should be a strategic priority.
Supporting employees in quitting smoking and losing weight isn’t just about encouraging healthy behaviors; it delivers measurable cost savings. For individuals with a BMI of 25 or higher, a 25% weight reduction can generate an estimated $2,849 in annual medical savings. Similarly, helping an employee quit smoking can save more than $2,000 per year in healthcare costs.
By tackling these issues together, employers can drive meaningful health outcomes and maximize ROI on wellness initiatives.
Quitting smoking and weight gain: a temporary challenge
For some people, quitting smoking may result in short-term weight gain—typically about 10 pounds in the year after quitting. But studies show a wide variation in weight change, with some individuals losing weight while others gain.
However, in the long run, quitting tobacco can actually support weight management by enabling people to live healthier, more energetic lives free from tobacco-related disease.
People who quit smoking are often inspired to make other changes to their lifestyle, including eating healthier and exercising. These behavior changes can lead to long-term savings for employers as employees see reduced healthcare costs.
How quitting smoking can help people achieve weight loss goals
For employees quitting smoking who initially gain weight, the health benefits of quitting smoking far outweigh the risks of a few added pounds. By preparing for temporary challenges, people who quit tobacco can keep sight of the significant long-term advantages for both overall health and the ability to maintain a healthy weight.
Here are some of the ways quitting smoking can support weight loss:
- The cardiovascular system improves dramatically within weeks of quitting smoking, making exercise easier and more enjoyable.
- Quitting smoking improves lung function and blood circulation, increasing energy and motivation to be active.
- Quitting smoking can improve your sense of taste and smell, helping people enjoy healthier foods and be more satisfied with smaller portions of flavorful, nutritious meals.
Resources for quitting smoking, weight loss, and whole-person health
Developed with Mayo Clinic, EX Program delivers proven digital support to help people quit smoking and vaping—including personalized quit plans, dynamic text messages, and access to expert EX Coaches via live chat.
Our EX Coaches are trained tobacco treatment specialists who go beyond quit support. They help individuals understand and manage the link between nicotine withdrawal, appetite changes, and shifting taste or smell. With guidance grounded in science, coaches help users make smart, sustainable choices to prevent weight gain and support long-term health.
Coaches also offer personalized, high-level guidance on nutrition strategies that align with participants’ goals and health needs. This includes proven approaches like the Mediterranean and DASH diets, strategies for balanced eating, portion control, and how to decode food labels.
EX Program participants also gain access to the longest-running digital quit-smoking community in the country—where they can connect with peers, share wins and struggles around quitting and weight, and read blogs from Mayo Clinic experts.
With EX Program, quitting doesn’t mean choosing between tobacco freedom and overall well-being. It means achieving both.
To see more about how EX Program helps individuals overcome nicotine addiction and align with whole-person health, please contact us today.
