11 Effective Ways to Quit Smoking

Cigarette contains a lot of chemicals which can be harmful to smokers and non smokers alike. Second hand smoking(smoke giving up by a tobacco product and inhaled by non-smoker) can cause diseases and premature death to children and non-smokers.

The habit, may not be easy to kick but quitting reduces the risk of developing cancer, stroke and heart disease.

Nicotine which is present in tobacco plant, makes it hard to quit. But, with perseverance and determination you can quit smoking.

Health and Living Digest brings you a list of some easy ways to quit smoking and reduce your risk of heart diseases and health complications caused by smoking.

Ways To Quit Smoking

Set a date to start quitting

Set a date to quit smoking. Remove cigarettes, lighters and ashtrays from your home, work, and car before your quit date.

Think positive

You might have tried to quit smoking before and not managed it, but don’t let that deter you. Look back at the things your previous experience has taught you and apply it as you try again. Set a realistic target and focus on making daily improvements.

Replacement Therapies

Use nicotine replacement therapies recommended by your doctor, such as gum, patches, tablets and inhalers.

Anticipate challenges and make a quit plan

Making a quit plan gives you ways to stay focused, confident, and motivated to quit. Make a list of reasons why you need to stop smoking and things you will do when craving arise. Most people who begin smoking again do so within the first three months. You can help yourself make it through by preparing ahead for common challenges, such as nicotine withdrawal and cigarette cravings.

Avoid Smoking Triggers

Triggers are people, places, things, and situations that set off your urge to smoke. Get out of any situation that will tempt you to smoke. On your quit day, try to avoid all your triggers.

Have a game plan when you get cravings

Workout, eat a snack, watch TV, take a shower, or call a friend when you feel like smoking. Try to engage yourself in different activities to get your mind off smoking.

Be prepared for withdrawal symptoms

 When you stop smoking, you are likely to get symptoms which may include nausea, headaches, anxiety, irritability, depression, tiredness, craving, and just feeling awful. These symptoms are caused by the lack of nicotine that your body has been used to. Once you get past those first days, you’ll begin to feel normal.

Change your drink

Fizzy drinks, alcohol, cola, tea and coffee all make cigarettes taste better. So when you’re out, drink  water or any drink that won’t make you crave for a cigarette.

Join a support group for people who want to quit smoking

The chances of quitting are higher when you have support. Support group helps you identify the mental, physical, and social effects of smoking. The benefit is that you get to express your feelings with people who have the same problem as you and it keeps you motivated.

Hang with  non smoking friends

Hanging out with smoking friends will only increase your craving and they may even coerce you into smoking again. Hangout with friends who are non-smokers and those who support you quitting.

Rely on your faith

Believing that you can quit is important  in this process. Many times, people can’t quit because they believe they can’t. Praying and believing you can do it will give you the willpower to resist the craving.