How to deal with increased appetite when quitting?

Body image/Diet/Food trigger warning

Hello, I have been about 4 months now off nicotine completely. I don’t really crave cigarettes anymore, but my appetite has completely changed.

I’m eating the same foods as before but my appetite has increased crazy since I don’t have nicotine to help curve hunger.

For example I’ve gotten a new habit of eating ice cream every night after dinner (I found a new flavor and it’s delicious not gonna lie lol). But, I NEVER used to do that! I used to go outside and smoke after, no dessert!

I’ve gained about 5 pounds already and I can tell its just fat from all the sugar and more calories I’ve been eating. It really has me down because I’m supposed to be healthy now that I quit but I just feel fat and bloated. I loved my body before and I know I’m technically healthier without the tobacco and nicotine, but damn my body has changed and summers coming!!

I’m planning on switching up my diet and working out again but has anyone found a replacement for the sugar/hunger cravings? Is there any non-carcinogenic way to curve hunger?? The sugar cravings at night are the absolute worst for me!!

Thanks in advance and good luck to anyone quitting! I loved nicotine so if I can do it, you can do it!!!