How to Quit Smoking when Pregnant? Exercise May Curb Nicotine Cravings

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A Canadian study found that pregnant smokers need only go for a brisk walk to curb their nicotine cravings, reports Reuters. There had been previous research confirming that exercise could stave off cravings for cigarette in both men and women, but it had been unclear whether the same could be said for pregnant smokers whose high metabolism is a factor for increased and prolonged nicotine cravings.

Lead author of the study, Harry Prapavessis, disclosed that the study "was the first time we have been able to replicate the findings with pregnant smokers," reports Z News. Serving as the director of the Exercise and Health Psychology Laboratory at Western University in Ontario, Canada, Prapavessis and his team discovered that brisk-walking for 15 to 20 minutes using mild to moderate pace may interrupt a pregnant smoker from reaching for a cigarette.

Researchers asked 30 pregnant smokers to participate in their study, with all expectant mothers in their second trimester of pregnancy. The respondents smoked five or more cigarettes per day, and did not include regular exercise in their daily activities.

The respondents were divided into two groups, with one group assigned to brisk-walk on a treadmill, while the other group was asked to watch a home gardening video, both activities were to be done for 20 minutes. Results showed that those who brisk-walked experienced a 30% reduction of nicotine cravings.

However, the team is quick to note that the pregnant smokers' cravings did return, although a bit minimized at 17%. Other positive changes reported by the respondents include, "less irritability, restlessness, tension and other withdrawal symptoms," according to Reuters.

The study may not point to a definite cure for nicotine addiction, but it gives pregnant smokers a new strategy to quit smoking. Obstetrician Dr. Sharon Phelan says, "This translates not as a cure for quitting, but it can be part of a strategy," according to Eye Witness News. Phelan is not a member of the study team, but believes the research finding may help countless of pregnant smokers to fight their addiction, and to get healthy for their own sake and for their unborn child.