It is popularly believed that smoking decreases body weight by suppressing appetite. However, cross-sectional studies show that, despite their lower body weights, smokers do not eat less than non-smokers or ex-smokers and, in fact, tend to eat slightly more.

Does smoking reduce appetite?

Smoking can suppress your appetite. You may find that food tastes better after you stop smoking and you also crave sugary foods. It’s possible to mistake nicotine cravings for feeling hungry, or to eat to distract yourself from them. You may replace the “hand-to-mouth” action of smoking with snacking.

Does smoking affect eating habits?

Results. Compared to never smokers, current smokers reported more frequent cravings for high-fat foods and fast-food fats, after controlling for depression, stress, BMI and demographic factors. Current smokers also reported consuming more high-fat foods and fast-food fats.