Quitting causes weight gain and it's just as dangerous - Quitting doesn't increase our weight, eating does. As far as a few extra pounds being "dangerous," you'd have to gain over one hundred additional pounds in order to equal the health risks associated with smoking one pack a day. Keep in mind that your general health, physical abilities and lung capacity will all improve dramatically. If patient, you will have the physical and mental tools necessary to shed any extra pounds. Remember, smoking was your cue that a meal had ended. Unless you develop a new cue there may be fewer leftovers.