5 Ways to Quit Smoking For Good
Written by: Perry Brooks
With all of the information available today about the detrimental effects of smoking, it's no wonder more and more people are realizing the importance of finding effective ways to quit smoking. Although there may not be one magic bullet or miracle cure for nicotine addiction, there still are several ways you can regain control of your health, and stop smoking for good.
1. Join a Group
Smoking cessation support groups are useful for many people who enjoy the camaraderie and the sharing of similar experiences with others also trying to beat a nicotine addiction. Libraries, community centers, hospitals, and doctor's offices should all have information about any local groups in your area and who to contact. Or, there are numerous groups online filled with friendly, helpful people ready to share their tips, trials, and tribulations with others.
2. Use a Stop Smoking Aid
There are several stop smoking aids to choose from such as nicotine patches, gums, and sprays designed to provide small amounts of nicotine to satisfying cravings while quitting smoking. Some are available without a prescription, although you may want to discuss the pros and cons with your own doctor or pharmacist before trying one.
3. Take Prescription Medication
Two well-known prescription drugs for controlling nicotine cravings and reducing withdrawal symptoms are varenicline and bupropion. Both are available in pill form, and neither contain nicotine. If you've tried other methods and feel a prescription medication will give you the extra boost you need to meet your goal of becoming smoke-free, don't hesitate to ask your doctor which type would be the best for you.
4. Exercise and Eat Well
Studies consistently show that regular exercise is one of the best, and cheapest ways to quit smoking. Besides promoting overall health, exercise releases endorphins in the brain that elevate our mood, and generally make us feel better. Which as anyone who has tried to quit smoking knows, is so very important when dealing with the many effects of withdrawal.
So often people use the excuse of not wanting to gain weight while trying to kick the habit. Instead of falling into this trap, replace smoking with healthy eating in the form of nutritious finger foods to keep your hands busy while providing you with vitamin-filled snacks. In retrospect, it's far better to gain five or ten pounds and then lose them than it is to continue smoking, filling your lungs and body with dangerous toxins.
5. Keep a Anti-Smoking Journal
Many people benefit from keeping a diary or journal to chronicle their experiences and record their emotions. It's also a good idea to learn the many dangers of smoking, not just for the smoker, but for everyone around them as well. When trying any of these ways to quit smoking, remember how smoking can seriously damage your health:
- Increases the risks of many different cancers such as lung, bladder, mouth, and esophageal
- Increases the risk of diseases such as diabetes and Alzheimer's disease
- Increases the risk of strokes and heart disease.
- Reduces fertility
- Contributes to conditions such as osteoporosis, impotence, and high blood pressure
