When you give up smoking your taste buds will gradually regain their previous sensitivity. Your appetite will also increase.

I'd imagine you'd need less heavily spicing in Indian food when giving up. Perhaps try other 'coolants' after a spicy a meal instead of that post dinner cigarette!

Have you always smoked when you have eaten Indian food in the past? I am wondering if this craving is to do with 'association' of smoking and Indian food in your mind? It is just a thought, I don'y know if this is possible,

My first thought was same as mum's - it's about a strongly developed mental association.

When I smoked, the most difficult times after stopping where when I had a drink in my hand, because it was so strongly associated in my mind with having a fag alongside. It took time for me to break that mental habit... but I did!

thanks for the replys upto now. we only used to eat indian food about once a week sometimes once a fortnight. so this is why i find it an odd thing to crave for.

I am glad I never started smoking. There are other problems in life!! ;)

Thanks Rita.

When giving up smoking it is common to have food cravings as the withdrawal of nicotine causes your blood sugar level to fall. However is normal to want sweet things!

Perhaps the desire for spicy foods is to replace the 'taste' of cigarettes. Perhaps it is important to find a diversionary tactic after spicy food to replace the normal ritual of a coffee and cigarette. Try going for a walk, have your favourite ice cream or even do the washing up!

Winton

Exercise is a good alternative as it can release its own chemicals making you feel good !

Steve