The surprising reason Ben Affleck has been biting apples everywhere he goes

Ben Affleck has been spotted with an unexpected new accessory across Los Angeles, and to everyone’s surprise, it is not iced coffee from Dunkin’ or a cigarette. It is reported that the actor has swapped smoking for snacking, leaning into what some call the “apple technique.” The behavioral trick is allegedly used to help manage nicotine cravings. 

Recent photos show Affleck moving around with an apple clamped between his teeth. A big switch since Affleck has often been photographed smoking, and cigarettes became part of his off-duty public image for years. 

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The Apple Technique Explained

The idea behind the apple technique is very practical. Some smoking cessation experts suggest crunchy foods can help replace the oral fixation associated with cigarettes. HuffPost UK spoke to NHS doctor Dr. Emeka Okorocha about the trick. “The technique used by Luke Bascombe... is a really simple technique, yet can be very effective,” Dr Emeka told the publication, referencing Netflix’s ‘Adolescence,’ DI Luke Bascombe.

The expert added that it helps to “distract you from the cravings by altering your sensory experience – you can do this with something sweet and crunchy like an apple, or even something spicy or salty.”

While the crisp texture can mimic some of the sensory satisfaction smokers seek, there is also the ritual element, as reaching for an apple instead of a cigarette creates a replacement behavior.

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For Affleck, this seems a quick and simple technique to try. But for fans, watching this could be the inspiration they needed. Celebrity wellness shifts often get attention when they feel aspirational or dramatic, and in addition, this one feels relatable as it does not use expensive biohacking gadgets or elite retreats.

“It’s basically going to trick your brain into focusing on the taste on your tongue rather than the craving itself,” the doctor added. Other unorthodox methods include aversion therapy, which, according to the expert, is “simply a method where every time you smoke, you do something unpleasant that the brain and body don’t like."

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He said this way your brain learns to associate smoking with the undesirable result. “Other unconventional methods that have been explored include hypnotherapy,” he adds, “or olfactory nerve training, also known as smell training, which involves tricking your nose to experience bad smells [like rotten eggs or vinegar] if you think about smoking”.

“I would always recommend those looking to quit smoking to use multiple tools to help them quit for good,” Dr Emeka told the publication. “These include nicotine replacement therapies such as patches, gums or inhalators, nicotine-free medication or by using apps.”