AS the smoking ban takes hold, many smokers thinking about quitting may also be worrying about putting on weight. But weight gain needn't be an unwanted side effect of stopping smoking. Slimming World's nutritionist Dr Jacquie Lavin explains why starting a healthy eating plan and joining a slimming group at the same time can really help smokers to stop and slim successfully.

"For some smokers, the ban will signal the start of their journey to giving up and the prospect can be very daunting - especially with the added worry that quitting often means weight gain," says Dr Lavin.

"For anyone concerned about weight gain, a good place to start is by finding a supportive network and a healthy eating plan which you can follow while you quit."

The motivational techniques that Slimming World members learn to help them lose weight successfully can be just as effective if applied to smoking. Strategies like setting a target, deciding when you're going to stop, writing a 'for and against' list or keeping a diary are extremely powerful when used in combination with a support group to help with behaviour change.

"Joining a slimming group can help you be aware of the factors that may lead to weight gain and to consider how you can counter them by starting new healthy eating and lifestyle habits at the same time as quitting," adds Dr Lavin.

There are several common factors associated with giving up smoking that can potentially lead to weight gain: 4 Food is full of flavour again. As taste buds come 'alive' again, many ex-smokers could find themselves eating more through a new-found enjoyment of food. Also, where cigarettes may have previously been used as a meal 'replacement', for example instead of breakfast, then the addition of an extra meal per day may lead to weight gain.

4 Switching cigarettes for snacks. Food and snacks are sometimes used as a replacement for the physical hand-to-mouth action used when smoking.

4 Cravings. The 'empty' feeling which nicotine withdrawal can bring can feel similar to the feeling of a hunger pangs and so encourage you to eat more.

For more information about Slimming World groups in the Portland, Weymouth and Dorchester area call 0844 892 0400 or visit www.slimmingworld.com or call Sue Glenn on 01305 822162.