"My 49 Top Reason for Making Quit Smoking a Little Easier"...
by Terry Clark
Table of Content
1.Withdrawal Symptoms Quitters often Experience 2. Why Smoking is Bad for You 3. What to do if You Fail to Quit Smoking the First Time 4. What Happens when a Smoker Stops Smoking? 5. Using Nicotine Patches to Quit Smoking 6. Trying Acupuncture or Hypnotherapy to Quit Smoking 7. How to Quit Smoking - Top Reasons for Quitting Smoking 8. Tips to Make Quitting Easier 9. Tips to Help a Friend Quit Smoking 10. The Use of Relaxation Techniques to Quit Smoking 11. Techniques to Cope with Tobacco Cravings 12. Rewards for Motivation to Quit Smoking 13. Removing Smoking Triggers from Your Home and Office 14. Medication Therapy to Quit Smoking 15. Making a Plan to Quit Smoking 16. Is Smoking Really Addictive? 17. Important Dos and Don'ts to Quit Smoking 18. Realizing the Health Risks 19. Original Methods that Are Known to Work 20. Major Mistakes to Avoid 21. Getting the Support You Need 22. Cold Turkey or Progressive Quitting 23. Prevent Weight Gain when You Quit Smoking 24. Deal with Social Smoking Triggers 25. How a Healthy Lifestyle will Help You to Quit Smoking 26. Helping Your Child to Quit Smoking 27. Getting the Right Mindset to Quit Smoking 28. Exercise to Successfully Quit Smoking 29. Diseases Caused by Smoking 30. Can Lung Cancer be cured? 31. Are There any Benefits to Smoking? 32. Alternative Therapies for Smoking Cessation 33. Advice for Pregnant Women to Quit Smoking 34. Smokeless Cigarettes Gaining Popularity 35. Use Chantix To Overcome The Side Effects Of Quit Smoking 36. Effects And Side Effects of Chantix and Zyban 37. Smoking Cigarettes Causes Conflict 38. Relationship Between Skin Problems and Smoking 39. Why do Women Smoke and what Cost Women do pay for Smoking? 40. Cigar Smoke and How Dangerous It is Being Exposed to It 41. How Does Hypnosis to Quit Smoking Really Work? 42. Vaporizers: doing the trick for smokers 43. Quit Smoking By Using Herbs 44. Quit Smoking Laser 45. Quit Smoking Using Subliminal Audio 46. 15 Exciting and Crazy Things To Do After You Quit Smoking 47. Smoking and Erectile Dysfunction 48. Information on the antidepressant drug Wellbutrin 49. Effects of Smoking Did you Know that you CAN go Blind from Smoking?
Resources: My Quit Smoking Program (recommendation)
#1.Withdrawal Symptoms Quitters often Experience
Nicotine cravings are quite powerful. When you are used to the habits of smoking and alcohol drinking, your biological clock would not forget to remind you of the need to go for a smoke or for a large drink precisely at the same time every day. It is quite a powerful urge. One should know how to tackle such issues before attempting to quit smoking.
It is a really tough task to get rid of smoking when you are seriously addicted to it. The habit of smoking is something that is very detrimental to your own health. It could eat you away completely from within, figuratively speaking. To get addicted to alcohol might take time, while getting addicted to the usage of cigarettes happens easily in all individuals.
Smokers have to bear in mind one important fact - quitting smoking is very difficult when you are seriously addicted to the habit. Most smokers are not aware of this simple fact and they are really overconfident that they can tackle the issue with great ease. In reality, this is not so. The symptoms of nicotine withdrawal will not allow you to quit smoking quite so easily. Even though you really want to quit smoking you will probably be unable to do so without a lot of help.
Nicotine is an essential chemical constituent of tobacco and of cigarettes. When you get used to smoking, your body is used to getting this chemical as well. When you quit smoking, the body craves the chemical, but the natural biological processes mean it is also getting rid of the nicotine content. The body has the natural tendency to eliminate any toxic substance that affects the well being of the bodily parts as a whole.
Withdrawal of the nicotine from the blood stream and other parts of the human system happens when you stop smoking. The process occurs in sequential steps. As a result, the individual might notice a lot of symptoms. Some of these symptoms are quite hard to tolerate especially if you are among those addicts that have not attempted to quit smoking for years.
The symptoms of the cigarette cessation that occur as a result of nicotine withdrawal are called Quitter's flu symptoms. They are listed below.
* High intense craving waves for nicotine at intervals
* Increased tension levels
* High irritability
* A condition more or less like depression
* Being short-tempered
* Sometimes severe headaches
* Sometimes loss of concentration
* Drowsiness
* Sometimes postnasal drip
* Feel of tightness in the chest
* Insomnia or sleeplessness * Eating more due to increased appetite and gaining weight as a result of it.
The earlier phase could be very challenging. Once you pass through the first week or rather the first couple of weeks then you are almost through. You should not get back to smoking again.
Coughing
It occurs in almost 90 percent of all quitters. It is just due to the simple reason that the tracheal system as a whole is trying to adjust to the new conditions. Earlier, there was frequent dumping of nicotine at regular intervals inside and hence, any repair work or replenishment work to get rid of the nicotine content completely was not possible for the internal organs of the body. Hence, the tar and other micro constituents in the nicotine get settled in the tracheal walls, linings and cavities. These get hardened in due course of time if the individual has not attempted to quit at all for years.
Heavy smokers that are addicted to the habit eventually experience thickening of the walls of the veins and arteries. When they stop smoking all of a sudden, the process of cleaning starts to happen and the deformation phase starts from within. This tends to create a lot of changes in the normal routine or behavioral pattern of the individual. Elimination of the chemicals like tar has to happen through coughing and some of the micro constituents are eliminated through excretory activities as well.
As the system becomes purer, the corresponding changes can be felt as a result of this. These include additional energy, restlessness, lack of focus, sleeplessness, and so on. These symptoms are mild and temporary though. Within just a couple of weeks you will be absolutely perfect.
#2. Why Smoking is Bad for You
It is an undoubted fact that a lot of people have tried smoking. They tried cigarettes at some point in their lives. In fact, both adults and young people can pick up the habit. What is rather intriguing is that quite a lot of these people know there are certain harmful effects of smoking. One may wonder why such people still find themselves actively engaged in the practice. It may interest you to know that many parents do smoke but dont like to see their children doing the same. The fact of the matter is that smoking is very harmful. Thus, any effort to stay away from it on your part is good. Despite this, there are still many smokers today with little knowledge about the harmful sides of smoking.
All they see is the pleasure and fun that they derive from it. It would be worthwhile to learn about some of these effects to be able to make a well informed decision as to whether to go for it or not. First and foremost, you need to quit the habit of smoking or avoid going into it for the simple reason that it could have serious health implications. Among others, there is a condition called chronic obstructive pulmonary disease that is very difficult to treat once present. When you have this disease, you dont even have to smoke for a longer period of time before the damage is done. It gets very bad when you keep smoking for a longer period. This could even go on to becoming a permanent condition and give you a lot of trouble.
The other consequence of smoking that you may want to learn about is heart disease. This problem should not require further stressing considering how expensive the treatment is. Apart from this, you have to know that cancer is one of the most dangerous effects of smoking. This should be a great warning to anyone whos into smoking. Not only does the smoker suffer alone when these problems arise but close family and friends are also affected in diverse ways. For instance, they are likely to be the third party smokers and be adversely affected by your habit. They do not have to be smokers to suffer from the consequences associated with it.
In addition to all these issues, there are certain vanity reasons that may make you reconsider your decisions about smoking. Typically, many smokers suffer from bad breath. This makes it very embarrassing for them to freely express themselves in public when interacting with others. Again, there are people who have yellow teeth as a result of their smoking habits. Apart from this, many suffer from premature aging as well as wrinkles all over the body. This is certainly a problem many wouldnt want to deal with. The point really is that a lot of money might have to be pumped into various medications and cosmetics to be able to fix such problems even if you finally say no to smoking. If you dont want to look much older than your age, you might want to be careful about smoking.
One simply cannot talk about smoking being bad without mentioning the financial implications. It is said that on average, people spend some $30 daily on smoking; this is not a small amount of money. Interestingly, those who purchase one pack per day are not able to identify this problem. Perhaps the best you could do is to make a careful calculation of how much you spend each day and then multiply it by the number of days in the week, the month and then eventually the year. That way, you would be able to get a perfect picture about the financial drain you are causing to yourself.
To top it up, youd have to consider what such an amount of money could have done in a positive way. That is where reality will hit you back. So, if you have ever thought about quitting smoking, these points should be enough to help you make a good decision as to whether to quit or continue. Consider all the harm smoking does to you and to the people that you love. Be firm and make an effort to quit.
#3. What to do if You Fail to Quit Smoking the First Time
The saying old habits die hard holds true for the attempts to quit smoking. Yes! It is a matter of common observation that despite sincere efforts, not many people are able to get rid of the habit of smoking. This has also been proven with the help of the various researches in which it was concluded that the success rate of the first-time quitters is not very encouraging. However, this should not discourage the people who are planning to quit smoking. If you are self-motivated there is a bright chance of your being successful. Even if the various techniques do not work for you, there is still hope to get going because disappointment will not serve your purpose anyway.
Let's say you did give your best shot to get rid of the habit but did not succeed. Try any or all of the following tips and you are sure to achieve your target in the second attempt.
* Try to pinpoint your source of motivation. This is one of the most ignored factors these days. You need to realize your responsibility as an important member of your family. For example, if youre a father, you would feel that you are being motivated by your children to be healthier. This will make you inclined towards going for the second attempt of quitting cigarettes. Similarly, if you are a husband, you may draw your motivation from your better half who would love you to quit smoking. Being a son or daughter, you need to realize your responsibility towards your parents to whom you owe your life. They deserve to have healthy children in the later stages of their lives.
* Assess your mental and physical ease when you are trying to quit smoking. This will present you with a number of positive points and you will be in a better position to weigh the good and bad effects of smoking on your personal health and hygiene. Ultimately, you will decide to give yourself another chance to try quitting smoking.
* Make the exercise a must in your routine. This will improve your general view towards life and you will be able to enjoy a natural lifestyle. Your body will become stronger and more energetic than before and you will not require nicotine to soothe your muscles. Instead, the fatigue you feel in your body will be dealt with by performing daily exercise and jogging. The body cells will be active and you will stay young and fresh till the age of 70.
* Try to look for a new hobby. This is one of the tips you might not have tried the first time. But this is surely going to work for you the second time around. If you are not fond of having an outdoor hobby, it is recommended to adopt any of the outdoor games which take most of your time. That way, you will not have time to think about being deprived of your favorite cigarette. Some of the examples of such hobbies are football, cricket, rugby, badminton and tennis. These are physical games during which your body will work out. You will not only feel fresh and active. The need for nicotine in your body will be reduced. Eventually a point of time will come when you will feel absolutely no urge to smoke a cigarette.
The above mentioned tips are only suggestions to all those out there who tried to get rid of their habit but did not succeed for whatever reason. The first and the foremost quality that you need to have in order to quit smoking is to be patient. The reason is that smoking is more of a psychological habit and it has to be dealt with accordingly. Give yourself considerable time to cope with your life without smoking. If you are a chain smoker, you should not expect your mind and body to accept the change abruptly. Your body needs to adjust to living without the amount of nicotine it has been fed with on a daily basis for years. Try to be patient and not to give up. Your efforts are bound to pay off in the end.
#4. What Happens when a Smoker Stops Smoking?
When you have decided to quit smoking and have started making efforts to get rid of the habit, you will observe some major changes that take place in your body. Be aware of all of these changes so that you do not come to any wrong conclusions. Some of the effects like coughing should not discourage your efforts towards quitting smoking once and for all.
When you leave smoking for about twenty minutes, you will feel the blood pressure, the rate of the heart and the temperature of the hands and of the feet reach their normal state. When you have successfully done it for about 8 hours or so, then your body will experience an even more beneficial effect. The remains of nicotine in the bloodstream of the body would have fallen greatly to just about 6.25 per cent or so. This percentage is in comparison with the nicotine present during the peak levels of smoking. You have accomplished a reduction rate of about 93.25 per cent which is a fabulous success. Still, are you done? Have you won the battle completely? The answer is still NO. There is a long way to go.
Continue marching ahead towards success. If you get tested after 12 hours of not smoking even a single cigarette then you could notice that the blood oxygen levels have returned back to normal. The carbon monoxide content will become normal as well. After a period of 2 days, the nerve endings that were damaged earlier due to smoking will start to grow again. The senses of smell as well as taste would start to bud out more intensely. Simultaneously with the cessation anger as well irritability will be at peak.
After 3 days of quitting, the lungs start to function perfectly. The entire body if tested would show that there is not any trace of nicotine as 90 per cent of the nicotine metabolites would have already been flushed out of the body through the urine. The symptoms of restlessness as a result of chemical withdrawal could be noticed evidently by now. You should not try to calm down your nerves by allowing yourself a single smoke session at this crucial time. You had helped your body to change dramatically in a span of just three days. All the efforts should not go in vain just because of the temptation to smoke again.
After a period of about ten to twenty days, the blood circulation in the gums as well as the teeth would be just normal as that of any other non smoker. The time period could vary according to your level of addiction. Some people tend to smoke a couple of cigarettes a day and some might smoke heavily. They could smoke a couple packets of cigarettes or even more. Hence, it all depends on how addicted you are to the habit in the first place. In severe cases, people trying to quit might experience peak craving sensations even after a week or ten days after they had their last cigarette. It could be highly intense and could last for 3 minutes or so. Such craving sessions might occur 3 times in a day.
You should resist that by counting on the clock until the time is over. Initially, the craving would appear 3 times and then this would decrease to a couple of times in a day and then after a month or so, you would get rid of any craving sensation completely. By this time, you would have grown up to such highly matured levels, that you might not want to smoke again at any cost. When you have reached such heights, do not ever turn back and say let me have a puff or two.
Sometimes, you might be overconfident that you would not get addicted again as you have successfully quitted in such a short time. Never take such chances even if some of your mates challenge you to do so. Attempting to regain back the habit will be totally unworthy and it would be really tough to quit again later on as you did for the first time. There are many experienced people that have written articles and books on this particular aspect. Hence, leave the habit once and for all. This will benefit you as well as all people in your society.
#5. Using Nicotine Patches to Quit Smoking
There are different products which can help you overcome your addiction to nicotine when you attempt to quit smoking. The most widely used aids are nicotine patches. Find out how they work and how effective and safe they are to determine whether you should take advantage of them or not.
Nicotine patches contain a set dosage of the substance. They are generally divided into three groups in terms of strength - highest, medium and lowest. Heavy smokers start with the highest strength patches and gradually go to medium and low-strength ones. However, you do not have to start with the aids containing the largest dosage of nicotine if you smoke less than ten cigarettes a day. In general, it is best to consult a doctor on the optimal dosage and treatment process for you so that you can make the most out of it without experiencing any side effects.
The treatment with nicotine patches usually lasts for twelve weeks. During the first eight weeks, you need to take the highest dosage of the substance daily. Then you need to switch to medium-strength patches for two weeks. During the final two weeks, you have to use the low-strength ones. Eventually, you should be able to stay away from cigarettes without nicotine replacement.
The therapy is fairly easy to carry out. You need to place a nicotine patch on a hairless part of your body from the shoulders to the waist once a day. You have to replace the patch with a new one on the next day. It is as simple as this.
It has been found that using nicotine patches to quit smoking increases your chances of success two times. In general, the effectiveness of using such products varies from person to person. It should be pointed out that the use of patches is aimed at eliminating all cravings throughout the day. However, if the daily dosage is too low, you may still experience the urge to smoke. That is why doctors recommend keeping a nicotine gum or lozenge at hand so that you can use it to overcome sudden cravings.
Using nicotine patches for quitting smoking is generally safe in healthy adults. However, if you have medical problems, you should consult your doctor first. The treatment may not be appropriate for individuals with skin diseases, heart disease, diabetes, thyroid problems and kidney and liver problems.
The most common side effects of nicotine patches are skin irritation and rash and trouble sleeping. They are fairly easy to overcome, however. You just need to place the patches on different spots and remove them at night if you have sleeping problems.
#6. Trying Acupuncture or Hypnotherapy to Quit Smoking
Alternatives to clinical medicine methods for quitting smoking are tried by almost 26 percent of American smokers in any given year, according to statistical data. This shows that many people are keen to use these natural remedies to cure their nicotine addiction. Still, how successful are the people who have tried these methods to quit smoking? Research results are quite mixed. There are not too many positive results though. Many of the clinical experts share the opinion that these treatments could be used along with other clinical health treatments to increase cessation success rates. Smoking is like a chronic disease that is to be treated with serious care, according to medical experts.
Most people try the hypnosis method in the first place as they think it could be the easiest of all other approaches to be followed. Thanks to its ability to change the behavioral patterns of persons, the hypnosis treatment is well known all over the world. Most of the smokers found this technique to be their natural starting point towards quitting. Basically, hypnosis allows you to relax your mind sufficiently. While doing so, the hypnotherapist is able to understand the unconscious triggers in you. It is nothing but the alpha state of mind. It is just a state of mind that is the same as the one when we are deeply asleep in the night. We do not actually know what is happening around. The therapist could go deep into the memory to help you.
Some of the hypnotherapists are quite prominent and specialize in smoking cessation. The session will usually start with the case history of the patient. In that way the therapist understands the past experience of the individual that is associated with smoking. A state of relaxation is then induced in the client. There are more than a few methods for achieving this state. Most often visualization techniques as well as guided meditation techniques are used. Various suggestions are presented to the patient to see what would best motivate the individual to quit smoking for good.
Some people associate heavy smoking with spending too much time in front of the television. When the therapist finds this out, they just disconnect the association and offer the individual some other valuable healthy routine to divert their attention. The effectiveness of this technique is found to be sufficient to cause a complete smoking cessation. Surveys and statistics reveal that hypnotherapy is a better alternative when compared to the nicotine replacement therapy, especially in the cases of patients with cardiopulmonary disorder.
Traditional Chinese medicine has offered the entire world a whole bunch of secret medicines that are of great value. One of the important techniques that are used to treat smoking addicts is acupuncture. In fact, acupuncture has a broad range of applications. A specialist is capable of curing a variety of ailments through this technique. It is a vast subject. A detailed study is needed to master the art of acupuncture thoroughly. As part of the treatment, tiny needles are used to stimulate the essential points of the body. In case of smokers, the objective is to reduce their nicotine cravings. They would not desire to smoke any more after the proper treatment.
The withdrawal symptoms in the body can be eased with the help of this technique. Hence, one could quit smoking more easily this way than by attempting cessation without any assistance. The points where the needles are placed in the individuals body will vary from one person to the other. The common points generally selected for insertion of needles are around the ears, on top of the head and sometimes on the feet. The color of the tongue is noted down and the weakness level of the individual is evaluated and the appropriate area to insert the needles is determined accordingly.
The results from acupuncture are quite mixed as well. It is the most sought after method. The majority of the individuals trying to quit smoking use it, according to statistics. People believe it to be a great remedy. Studies examining the actual results and effectiveness of the treatment reveal that significant reduction in smoking can be attained when other treatments are used along with acupuncture. You may want to try a medical approach such as nicotine therapy together with the ancient Chinese technique.
#7. Top Reasons for Quitting Smoking
Before learning how to quit smoking, you have to be absolutely sure that you want to do this. You need to be motivated in order to increase your chances of success. Experts recommend that you write down all of your reasons for quitting on a piece of paper and put it in places where you can normally find your cigarettes. That way, you will have an additional stimulus to quit even when it is extremely hard to keep away from tobacco.
Better health is perhaps the main reason why people want quit smoking. You will notice an instant improvement in your breathing, energy levels, skin, teeth and breath. You will be able to feel the benefits of quitting just days after withdrawing from cigarettes completely. The long-term benefits of complete withdrawal from tobacco and nicotine include lower risk of heart disease, cancer, eye disease and premature aging. These are as important as the immediate health improvements that you will enjoy.
Protecting the people you love from second-hand smoke is the other major reason for quitting smoking. It has been found that individuals who reside or work with smokers have a 24 per cent higher risk of developing lung cancer. This should be frightening enough for all smokers out there. You have to realize that the smoke from your cigarettes can hurt your partner, children, parents, friends and coworkers. This should give you sufficient motivation to quit.
Getting rid of an addiction is another major reason for quitting smoking. You are physically addicted to nicotine. You are psychologically addicted to the habit of smoking. Because of these factors, you are constantly looking for a cigarette. You cannot wait to get your next dose. When this is not possible, you become angry and frustrated. Imagine a life without all of these stress factors. It is true that the nicotine withdrawal symptoms are severe at first, but you will feel better every day and eventually you will be free from your addiction.
Saving money is a major reason for quitting smoking and should not be underestimated. Cigarettes are becoming more expensive by the day because governments in virtually all countries are trying to reduce the number of smokers. The reality is that even if you have a sufficiently high income, you are still spending a lot on tobacco products. Imagine what it will be like to see this money going for your own good or for another person's good. Just try to use the money you spend on cigarettes daily to make a present to a loved one or donate it to a charity and you will automatically feel better.
#8. Tips to Make Quitting Easier
Smoking cigarettes is a bad habit that affects the smoker on various fronts. First of all, the health of the smoker is badly affected due to substances like tar, nicotine and many others present in tobacco. Smoking increases the risk of cardiovascular and lung diseases such as lung and throat cancer. Secondly, its not only the health of the smoker that is at risk of the above mentioned and many other ailments. Passive smokers who live around the smoker also face serious health hazards. Finally, the loss of a lot of hard earned money is devastating. Big sums have to be spent on smoking and by quitting this filthy habit one can save many dollars each month that can be spent on healthy activities or go to a savings account instead. The alternatives are surely better than literally burning the money into ashes.
It is good to quit smoking. Quit it for good to save money and to stay healthy. The problematic thing is to accomplish the task of quitting. This is so because of nicotine addiction. As a result, smoking is certainly a hard habit to break. There is no single solution or method that can be proclaimed to make the mission quit smoking a success. Every person has a different method working for him or her, but there are few successful strategies that many people have used to quit smoking effectively.
It is all a mind game when it comes to getting rid of the smoking habit. So, instead of attempting to quit because someone like spouse, kid, friend, colleague, and sibling, etc said so is not very likely to work. The smoker has to be convinced from inside and should set the focus on themself. Insistence of the loved ones can be taken as a motivating factor but if that is the sole factor then the chances of success are very slim.
Once the person has decided to quit then there are two possible ways to do it. One is to stop smoking immediately just like that and the other way is to quit gradually by reducing the daily intake of tobacco so that eventually you do not smoke any cigarettes. Both methods have their drawbacks and advantages, success stories and failure incidents. For instance, quitting suddenly may force the person to go back to smoking at the next available opportunity.
On the other hand, people with stronger willpower never go back to smoking after they quit altogether. Similarly, many people try to reduce intake gradually but never manage to do it properly and their consumption increases sooner or later. Other people use the same method of gradually decreasing the nicotine intake till they manage to quit smoking altogether. People know themselves better than anyone, so the appropriate strategy should be adopted considering the personal attributes and personality traits to achieve the target of quitting smoking effectively.
In personal financial management courses the trainers often emphasize that making access to money difficult for yourself encourages saving. Meaning, if the money can be easily withdrawn then it is more likely to be spent rather than saved. The same analogy can be applied to smoking. By making the access to cigarettes difficult, one can find quitting a bit easier. If the gradual decrease method is adopted then not buying a pack but a couple of cigarettes at a time is more appropriate. Throwing away accessories like lighters, matches and ash trays also helps.
Many people recommend chewing a gum to keep the mouth busy and send the right signals to brain. Nicotine based chewing gums are also available in the market and can be used for even better results.
The most difficult but very important tip is to stay away from the smoke gatherings, at least at the beginning. Actually, if you seek the company of smokers soon after quitting the chance that you will start smoking again is very high. So, initially it is necessary to stay away even from participating in the short smoke breaks.
People also recommend activities like starting a workout plan or starting a new hobby to quit successfully. Basically, the idea is to get you involved in other activities so that you stop thinking about smoking. The web is always there to help you out - it can be used to see how people around the globe have managed to get rid of the unwanted habit of smoking.
#9. Tips to Help a Friend Quit Smoking
Smoking is widely known to be bad for the health but there are still a lot of people who take nicotine in various forms and shapes. Have you ever asked yourself why this is so? Why do some people commit suicide after fully realizing the negative effects of the habit on their health? An understandable justification might be that they do not try to give up the habit even if they know how to do it. However, there might be some smokers who cannot find the right direction to proceed in while quitting smoking. This is very common these days.
Due to the lack of guidance and support, people end up disappointed and in depression and they seek help from drugs and cigarettes again. If you have any such friends around, it is time for you to be their guide for the moment. You may help your friend live a healthy life full of zeal and confidence. You just need to be there for them when they get rid of the bad habit of smoking. So what are you waiting for? Just suggest your friend the following tips and you will have a healthy friend forever.
1. Turn to the natural solutions rather than the complex chemical remedies which might be having some side or after effects on your general health. One of the best natural solutions is to eat more fruits and vegetables. Try to include the maximum possible amount of fruits in your daily diet. The vitamins and anti oxidants present in the fruits and vegetables not only control your weight but also satisfy the nutritional requirements of the body. In addition, the fiber will make it easy for you to cope with the changed routine. Since the fruits and vegetable are natural, they are 100 percent safe for the human health without any potential harmful effects.
2. Try to make salads and juices an important part of your diet. This will add color and taste to your meals and your life at the end of the day. The more junk food you eat, the more your internal body system will weaken and you will need aid in the form of drugs and cigarettes. Therefore, give up the excessive eating of fat-rich foods. This will make your system used to the natural salads and juices for good.
3. One of the solutions for all those out there who are trying hard to quit smoking is to take up Ginseng. This is a harmless stimulant made from natural ingredients. It helps suppress depression and anxiety during the process. It does not have any side effects. It has been tested around the globe and has been proven to work. This is one of the most effective methods to quit smoking.
4. If you are fond of having tea this does not mean that you will have to quit tea as well in addition to smoking. Rather it may be helpful to you if you use it as one of the ways to achieve your target. The various types of herbal teas which are widely available on the market may help you. The formulas of these teas are specially designed so as to reduce tension and cravings for cigarettes. You may try any of your favorite flavors.
5. In addition, you must try Lobelia which is natural tobacco. This type of tobacco does not contain nicotine as does the ordinary tobacco. This will help you give up smoking. You may get yourself a psychological satisfaction by smoking a cigarette of Lobelia but will remain safe from the harmful effects of the nicotine of the ordinary cigarette.
6. In order to relieve your depression and anxiety, it is recommended to go for aroma-therapy and oil massages. This will help you cope with the cessation of smoking. Your muscles will be relaxed and you will be able to enjoy your sleeping hours. Insomnia is also another problem which most of the quitters suffer from.
By using the above mentioned tips, you may help your friend get rid of smoking and enjoy their life the way they deserve. It is equally important to be understanding and supportive. This will be the greatest gift from you to your friend for his lifetime.
#10. The Use of Relaxation Techniques to Quit Smoking
It is normal to ask how relaxation techniques will help you quit smoking. Stress, anxiety, low mood and depression are among the major factors that urge you to smoke. The intake of a dose of nicotine makes you feel relaxed and happy. Thus, if you want to break your addiction to nicotine, you need to use methods with which you can relax and overcome these negative factors effectively.
There are many and different relaxation techniques that can help you quit smoking for good. Some are designed to keep you relaxed throughout the day while others can be used to overcome stress, anxiety, low mood and the resulting urge to smoke on the spot. Even though not all techniques work for everyone, it is recommended for you to try as many as possible and to use them in combination so that you can enjoy the best results.
Acupuncture is not just a technique for relaxation. It is used for the treatment of a wide range of conditions which have pain as one of their main symptoms. It is recommended as one of the main alternative health therapies for quitting smoking. In general, you are bound to feel more relaxed and happier with acupuncture so you can expect to be less likely to reach for a cigarette during the day.
Meditation and yoga have been traditionally used for relaxation in South East Asia. They are effective and the main evidence for this is their immense popularity around the globe at present. You lose nothing if you try one or both of these techniques. You can only get calmer, more focused and less responsible to stress triggers.
Massage and spa treatments are known to be highly effective for stress relief so they help you quit smoking as well. When you have a massage or a spa treatment, your muscles relax and so does the rest of your body. This relaxation will inevitably affect your mind. You will feel more relaxed and more energetic at the same time.
Deep breathing, visualization and progressive muscle relaxation are all techniques that are used for getting rid of stress, anxiety and low mood instantly. You can readily use them whenever you have such problems and whenever you feel like smoking. It is important to learn all the steps of the technique that you need to perform in advance so that you get the best results.
You can also try to make improvements to your lifestyle so that you are less stressed and less likely to smoke. More effective time management and a new hobby usually work quite well.
#11. Techniques to Cope with Tobacco Cravings
There are two major problems to overcome when attempting to quit smoking for good - nicotine withdrawal symptoms and tobacco cravings. In this guide, you will find techniques designed to help you cope with the latter issue. Tobacco cravings can occur anytime anywhere so you have to be prepared to fight them effectively.
Mind techniques must be used so that you are not thinking about smoking. One of the effective methods is procrastination. You just need to say to yourself that you will have a cigarette in ten minutes and continue to do whatever you are doing. The craving will have gone away when the time elapses. At least, it will be significantly reduced and you will be able to overcome it more easily.
Distraction is the other one of the mind techniques that works like magic when you are trying to quit smoking. Keep your mind busy with something whenever you feel like having a cigarette. You can do a crossword, browse the web to find the latest information about your favorite artist or sports club or watch a funny show.
Visualization is a technique which you can use when you have a tobacco craving due to stress or anxiety. Use your imagination to see yourself in a place where you are happy and relaxed. This will help you calm down and reduce your need to smoke.
Using an oral substitute for cigarettes is one of the techniques that will allow you to overcome cravings both physically and mentally. Chewing a gum, hard candy, sunflower seeds, carrot or celery stick is known to work for many people. In general, any food that is crunchy and delicious will do the trick.
Keeping your hands busy is another one of the techniques to avoid tobacco cravings that have a strong psychological effect. When you are using your hands, you will not think about holding a cigarette. You can try different methods when it comes to keeping your hands busy.
Many people find that squeezing a ball works. You can also try playing with a pen. Writing down or making small pictures is also known to help. If you experience anxiety or stress and the need to smoke grows considerably, you may want to use Chinese relaxation balls or you could take up knitting or crochet.
Having a glass of water, relaxing herbal tea or fruit juice is a great way for overcoming tobacco cravings. It will help you quit smoking more easily both physically and psychologically. Toxins will be flushed out of your body and your cravings will be reduced considerably.
#12. Rewards for Motivation to Quit Smoking
You need to have an effective strategy in place in order to quit smoking successfully. Doctors recommend that this strategy involves nicotine replacement therapy, support from family and friends and removal of all smoking triggers. The rewards should be an equally important part of the program that you have adopted.
How can reward motivate you to quit smoking? The idea is to treat yourself for the progress that you have accomplished. Basically, you need to get a reward only after you have made a serious effort to quit. That way, you will feel double satisfaction. You will be proud of the fact that you have managed not to smoke a cigarette. In addition, you will enjoy your treat to the fullest.
It is best to devise a reward system to use during the cessation process. As a start, you should set intervals at which you will get a treat for successful abstinence from cigarettes. It is logical for these to be shorter in the beginning and to get longer as you progress. For instance, you can treat yourself after the first 48 hours without cigarettes. Then you can get motivate yourself with something pleasant after four more days pass and so on.
Choosing the right kinds of rewards is the key to success. Many people who want to quit smoking choose set aside the money they would normally spend on cigarettes. You can do the same. Place a transparent jar in your kitchen or living room and put as much money as you would spend on tobacco products each day. When the time for a treat comes, take the money out and buy something that you will enjoy.
It is recommended not to use food treats to motivate you to quit smoking as you may fall into another addiction while trying to get rid of the primary one. Just think of the many other options that you have. You can buy flowers to put in your home or office. You can go see a movie. You can get new running shoes or a new outfit. It is fine to spend more money on rewards, if you can afford this. The important thing is not to go over the top.
You should certainly use the fact that you will get a reward if you reach a target goal to stimulate you to stay away from cigarettes during craving episodes. Whenever you feel like lighting up, you need to remind yourself of the award that awaits you if you manage to resist the temptation. This will certainly help you quit smoking.
#13. Removing Smoking Triggers from Your Home and Office
It has been estimated that it takes around one year for smoking to turn from something occasional into a habit. You are psychologically addicted to lighting up and holding a cigarette in your hand as well as addicted to the nicotine it contains. In order to quit smoking effectively, you need to remove the physical triggers that literally force you to stick to your habit.
You will find that there are many more smoking triggers in your home and office than you think. It is your job to get rid of them as soon as you decide to quit for good. You must throw away all ashtrays and lighters. It is not a good idea to just place them in the closet or a place that is hard to reach. They must be out of your life for good.
Consider your smoking habits in order to get rid of the other physical triggers that may pose a risk to your endeavor to quit. If you have a cigarette with your morning coffee, you may want to replace your favorite cup with another one. The idea behind this is not to associate the drinking of coffee with lighting up.
You should clean your house thoroughly right after you have your last cigarette. The cigarette smoke gets into literally every object with absorbent properties around you. The list includes carpets, curtains and upholstered furniture. It is a good idea to clean all such items with a steam-producing vacuum cleaner so that you do not feel the smell of tobacco anymore. Take any clothes that are not cleaned frequently such as coats to the drycleaner's so that the smell is removed from them as well.
It is natural for the rooms which you have smoked in to smell like smoke. You will sense this smell more strongly when you experience nicotine cravings. That is why doctors recommend using an air freshener to get rid of the scent. You may want to use a system for automatic dispersing of the fresh pleasant scent so that things are easier for you during the hard times of quitting smoking. Choose an air freshener with a scent that is relaxing and soothing. Lavender is one of the best options.
The first few weeks of quitting smoking are generally very stressful. That is why you may want to replace the old objects that trigger your habit with new ones that make you feel happy. In the place of each ashtray, you can put a vase with flowers or a picture of your family.
#14. Medication Therapy to Quit Smoking
It is not easy to quit smoking. That is why smokers rely on all kinds of aids to get rid of their bad habit, which poses a risk on their life and health. Some even resort to taking medications. It should be pointed out that medication therapy is not the same as nicotine replacement therapy as it does not involve products containing the substance naturally present in tobacco. Should you use this kind of treatment? Learn all about it so that you can make a well informed decision.
There are two types of medications normally prescribed to patients who want to quit smoking. Bupropion is classified as antidepressant, but it is approved for smoking cessation as well. It works by stimulating the production of certain brain chemicals. These chemicals are supposed to make you feel relaxed and to improve your mood. As a result, you get relief from the nicotine withdrawal symptoms and your cravings to smoke are reduced.
Bupropion is a prescription medication so you cannot use it without the approval of your doctor. You have to be serious about quitting smoking if you decide to use this drug because you need to start taking it at least a week before cessation in order for it to work. Clinical trials of the drug have shown that it 19 per cent of people who have used it have managed to quit successfully. The percentage for nicotine replacement therapy is 17.
The main drawback of using Bupropion for quitting smoking is that it has serious side effects. Some of the main ones include headaches, insomnia, dry mouth and irritability. In the US, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued the strongest possible safety warning for this product. This is because it may increase the risk of depression, aggression and suicidal thoughts and behavior.
Varenicline is the other non-nicotine medical which has been approved for smoking cessation. It helps you control your cravings and get relief from the nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It works by blocking the nicotine receptors in the brain. That way, you will not experience pleasure from smoking so quitting will be made much easier.
This medication has similar effectiveness to Bupropion. It generally works well to help you quit smoking. Varenicline has serious side effects just like its counterpart. The main ones include nausea, fainting, skin problems, vision problems, strange dreams and impaired ability to work with machines. The FDA has issued the highest safety warning for this drug as well since it may increase the risk of depression, hostile behavior and suicidal thoughts and behavior.
#15. Making a Plan to Quit Smoking
It is always best to have a plan when you want to quit smoking. Things are not going to be easy for you, at least during the first couple of weeks. You will have severe cravings and experience nicotine withdrawal symptoms. You have to be prepared to respond to these challenges in the best possible way. Having planned what to do in different situations will help you immensely.
Set a start date and make your intention to quit smoking known to your family, friends and co-workers. It is best for the date to be as soon as possible so that you do not distract your attention from your goal. Making your plan to quit publicly known will get you the encouragement and support that you need.
Define the things that motivate you to quit smoking. Make a list of all reasons for quitting. The more personal these reasons are the better. For instance, instead of writing down "I want to quit because I want my children to be healthy", you can write something like, "I want to quit because I love Annie and John and I want them to be happy and healthy". Keep copies of the list with the reasons for quitting in places where you usually keep your cigarettes.
Remove all smoking triggers from your environment. These include cigarettes, lighters, light matches and ashtrays. Just place them all in a plastic bag and throw them away. Remember to remove such triggers from your car and from your office as well as from your home.
Make modifications to your daily routine so that you replace habits that trigger smoking with healthy ones. You normally use the coffee breaks to have a smoke. Instead of going to the smoking area plan to go for a short walk around the block. If you usually have a cigarette after a meal, try to go to a non-smoking restaurant for lunch. In general, doctors recommend getting involved in a physical activity on a daily basis so that you can overcome the physical and psychological symptoms of withdrawal in a more effective way.
Learn a set of techniques to apply when you have cravings to smoke. What you have to do is to distract your mind and to give your body something that will replace the natural need for nicotine. The different people find different methods that work for them. You can try taking a walk, listening to music, getting a healthy snack, deep breathing and drinking water. Combining two or more of these techniques may produce even better results.
#16. Is Smoking Really Addictive?
Smokers always have a lot of issues to deal with. These could range from psychological to physical ones. One of these issues that have raged on over the years has to do with the risk of smoking becoming addictive. One must have an idea about the causes of the condition to be able to get a better understanding of it. Some people are able to quit smoking whenever they want to. On the other hand, there are many people out there who are just unable to stay away from smoking for a single day. It is a fact that the nicotine contained in tobacco products, including cigars and cigarettes, is responsible for the addiction to smoking.
Taken in its raw state, it could be extremely dangerous to the point of death. That is why it is taken in various processed forms so that it does not cause as much harm while working its effect on the brain. When the chemical compounds present in the substance go in there, theres some amount of tolerance thats been developed for the nicotine as the brain adapts to it. What happens then is that two substances in the brain, the dopamine and the norepinephrine are triggered. These substances are checked by the brain to make sure the right adjustments are made for the purposes of managing their levels. In the event of any excessive release of these chemicals, the brain with its anti-nicotine ability makes you feel depressed and sometimes tired. The resulting feeling is going to compel you to take more of the substance and this eventually becomes a habit.
The feelings that are typical for depression and the like are the factors referred to as triggers. It would be equally vital to add that many people do experience various forms of these triggers. For instance, while the mere sight of a cigarette pack could trigger the feeling in some people, there are many others who are moved by the scent as well as the sight of the lighter or the ashtray, among others. Before you realize what is going on, it has become very difficult to live without nicotine. This is when the addiction is said to take a toll on you. It is interesting how some people misconstrue addiction. Indeed, they confuse the word with something else. For instance, there are various things including food, games and others that are usually mistakenly considered to be addictive for many people. The fact really is that many such behaviors are mere obsessions and not necessarily addictions.
What you must understand is that addiction is always viewed in bad light. This is because the practices that would be termed addiction are those that are frowned upon by society. The striking description of an addiction has to do with the fact that the behavior could be very destructive to ones personal health, mental condition and social life. If you are someone who would spend a good amount of time smoking regardless of the risks the habit is posing on your health, you have to think twice. One thing is that not only do such people suffer the consequences that come with it but their families also suffer.
Typically, the addicted smoker finds it difficult to be in a relationship as life with them can sometimes be unbearable. They can develop disorganized lifestyles which obviously could mar their life with others. The other thing worth mentioning is that you are more than likely to get addicted as and when you engage in the practice of smoking for a long period of time. The metabolism of every individual is also likely to account for the cause of the addition. This explains why some people are able to get out of the condition while others suffer greatly to salvage themselves. Some people are actually able to quit permanently within few days after stopping smoking. Most smokers, however, need to invest more time and effort in quitting so that they can get rid of this addictive habit permanently.
It is important to consider the many risks associated with becoming a victim of smoking. Remember that some of the health conditions such as lung cancer - can be extremely difficult to treat and even completely impossible to cure. The amount of money that might be required to undertake such treatments could also be very high. Be warned!
#17. Important Dos and Don'ts to Quit Smoking
The best way to quit smoking is to know what to do and what not to do. When your determination to get rid of your bad habit for good is combined with the right strategy, you are bound to succeed. You will live a healthy and satisfactory smoke-free life.
Do learn all about the dangers of smoking and the benefits of quitting. Don't ignore your personal motives. The more you know about the problem, the more determined you will be to resolve it. Often the hardcore medical data is not sufficient to help you resist nicotine cravings, however. This is where your personal reasons come in. Think about the people you love and how much they will benefit if you do not smoke around them.
Do eliminate as many smoking triggers from your life as possible. Don't keep habits associated with smoking. Just think about the things that make you feel like lighting up and remove them, avoid them or change them. Keep in mind that the changes in your life will be for the better.
Do exercise and eat a balanced diet. Don't engage in a sedentary lifestyle and binging. Being physically active will help you resist tobacco cravings and quit smoking for good. Eat more fruits and vegetables and avoid overeating to keep to your normal weight during the cessation process.
Do sip water from a straw frequently. Don't drink alcohol and coffee. Water suppresses nicotine cravings and the drinking from a straw has a positive psychological effect on quitters. Liquor and caffeine have the opposite effect so they should be avoided until the habit is eliminated for good.
Do engage in social activities. Don't hang out with smokers. Being around friends and having fun will help you quit smoking successfully as you will be more relaxed and happier. At the same time, being around smokers can make your tobacco cravings worse so you should avoid this until you succeed quitting.
Do use nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) if your doctor confirms that it is safe for you. Don't take herbal and other products that promise to help you quit smoking straight away. NRT boosts your chances of success by two times so you should use it to achieve your goal if you notice that your willpower along is not sufficient. The therapy is completely safe for healthy adults. You should stay away from suspicious products that offer magical results.
Do try again if you fail to quit smoking. Don't despair. Keep in mind that your chances of success increase by 20 per cent after each attempt.
#18. Realizing the Health Risks
There are different ways in which you can get motivation to quit smoking. One of them is to learn about the serious health risks that you are exposed to as a smoker. The more information you have the more determined you will be to stay smoke free for good.
Your risk of developing lung cancer is 24 per cent higher than those of non-smokers. It has been found that in 85 per cent of all lung cancer patients the disease has been caused by cigarette smoking. You are exposed to a very high risk of a medical condition that is extremely hard to treat and has a very low survival rate. The five-year survival rate of individuals diagnosed with lung cancer is 6 per cent.
Your risk of developing a heart disease is 2 to 4 times higher compared to a non-smoker. Statistical data shows that 20 per cent of deaths from heart disease are directly linked to smoking. It is important to note that your habit increases not only your risk of heart attack and stroke. You are more likely to develop diabetes as well since nicotine has been found to have an adverse effect on the regulation of the blood sugar levels.
You are at greater risk of cataracts as a smoker. When you have this condition, the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and your vision is impaired. The only way in which this condition can be treated effectively is surgery. You can avoid this serious disease and the complex treatment just by getting rid of your bad habit.
Smoking causes premature aging. Wrinkles appear on the faces of smoker sooner than on the faces of non-smokers. This is also applicable to aging spots and saggy skin. Furthermore, the wrinkles are deeper and more evident. Basically, you will look older than you are and this is impossible to reverse in the long term unless you stop.
Smoking is a serious risk factor for impotence in men. It has been found that the toxins present in tobacco can prevent the dilation of the blood vessels which support erection. It is true that the risk is not extremely high, but combined with other factors smoking can lead to permanent erectile dysfunction.
Now you are well aware of the health risks associated with cigarettes. What should give you further motivation to quit smoking is that after ten years of tobacco-free life all of the extra risk associated with smoking will be down to zero. This is certainly something worth fighting for.
#19. Original Methods that Are Known to Work
Sometimes the conventional methods for quitting smoking simply do not work. This should not disappoint you. Quite the opposite, it is a good idea to get creative and to come up with original ways that can turn out to be effective enough to help you get rid of the bad habit for good. Here are some great unconventional methods that smokers have used successfully for achieving their ultimate goal.
Quit smoking with a buddy. This method has some obvious benefits. You will get understanding, support and encouragement from someone who goes through the same thing. You will be motivated to stay on track when you see the other person succeeding. Your buddy will be there for you if you feel that you are slipping.
This method works best if you live together with the other smoker who is trying to quit, but this does not mean that you cannot try it with a good friend. The closer your relationship to this person is the better. It is also a good idea for both of you to be equally determined and motivated. If the other person is hesitant or admits that they are not ready, you may want to look for another buddy. After all, you would not want the other person to pull you down.
Get a new hobby to quit smoking successfully. This may sound a bit strange, but the idea behind it is very simple and effective. What you are doing in reality is to replace one addiction with another. Of course, the new "addiction" has to be healthy and beneficial for your physical and psychological wellbeing.
A lot of people find that engaging more seriously in a sport when trying to quit smoking helps them immensely. Besides, being physically active works to aid you in overcoming nicotine cravings. Pick a sport that you like and start playing as frequently as possible. In general, any kind of physical activity will do. You may try gardening, yoga or dancing. You should not ignore other great hobbies either. You can go for art, pottery, music, cooking and even modeling.
Find a challenge to quit smoking. When you are focused on achieving something other than quitting, you will find the difficulties associated with this process as secondary problems. It is best for this challenge to be related to quitting, however, as something else may pose too much stress on you. For instance, you may challenge yourself to save enough money from cigarettes to go on an exotic vacation.
#20. How to Quit Smoking - Major Mistakes to Avoid
You have decided that you want to quit smoking and this is a good start. You should definitely get as much guidance and advice as necessary to get started and keep going. Usually, it is hard for people trying to quit to avoid making mistakes given all the emotional and physical stress that they are undergoing. That is why it helps immensely to know what the most commonly made mistakes are and how to avoid them easily, quickly and effectively.
Procrastination is a huge mistake to avoid when you want to quit smoking. You probably know at least one person who always says that they will quit tomorrow. As you have noticed, this never works. It is important to get motivation, to set a date and to get prepared. Having determination and a plan is what will keep you going.
Worrying about failure is not a good thing when you want to quit smoking. It is common for smokers to believe that their addiction has made them weaker. The fairly low success rates of quitters are not particularly encouraging either. However, it is best not to pay attention to the risks and negative sides, but to focus your attention on your goal and to stay positive. There is nothing to worry about when you have an effective plan put into action. Even if you fail the first time, you can always try again. The important thing is to achieve success eventually.
Having a single cigarette to satisfy your craving for tobacco is perhaps the worst of all mistakes that you can make. It is logical to think that you can have just a single cigarette and then keep on going without tobacco for days. Regrettably, it does not work that way. The more nicotine you have the more you will crave for it when its levels in your body fall. The good news is that there are plenty of techniques for overcoming cravings. These include mind, mouth and hands distraction and generally work very well.
Not seeking help and support may be detrimental to your efforts for quitting smoking. Tell everyone around you that you are trying to quit. Your family, friends and coworkers will be more than willing to aid you as best as they can. You can readily find traditional and online support groups, blogs and social network groups where you can get understanding, ask questions and get advice. There are plenty of books, guides and programs for self-help. It is recommended that you talk to your doctor when preparing your plan to quit smoking so that you can receive professional guidance and advice.
#21. Getting the Support You Need
It is wrong to think that it is a sign of weakness to get help and support when you attempt to quit smoking. Nicotine is addictive so your will alone may not be sufficient to cope with cravings. The more support you get the more likely you are to succeed. It will give you the motivation boost that you need the most when you have to cope with cravings. It will help you stay on track even if you are under a lot of stress and need to get relief by smoking a cigarette.
Getting support from family and friends is crucial when you attempt to quit smoking. Tell them that you are serious about quitting in advance of your set date for starting the process. Explain to them that the addiction is difficult to overcome and that you may be jittery, irritable and in bad mood for a couple of days or weeks and that this is something normal. Admit that you will need their encouragement. You will see that they will be extremely helpful and supportive.
Tell your coworkers that you plan to quit smoking for good. They will certainly be more than willing to help you achieve your goal. It is nice to have someone to talk to when you are under pressure and feel like lighting up a cigarette. You can readily join a group of non-smokers at the office and hang out with them during the coffee breaks instead of going to the smoking area.
Get support from someone close who has gone through the process of quitting successfully. Doctors say that this is one of the best strategies a quitter can adopt. Find a friend that knows what you are going through so that you can get the understanding and advice which you need. Besides, you will have a role model and this will make you even more determined to succeed.
Join a group of people that are trying to quit smoking just like you. You can readily find an online community or a support group in your area. You may even want to organize a group by yourself. Being part of a group of quitters will bring you a number of benefits. You will feel that you are not alone. You will get help from a bunch of people whenever you have a hard time. You will get motivated to progress as you read about other people's success. The important thing is to be an active member of the group and to share your emotions and experiences.
#22. Cold Turkey or Progressive Quitting
There are different ways in which you can quit smoking. It is important to take a look at the two main methods, cold turkey and progressive quitting, and to compare their pros and cons. This will allow you to pick the one which is likely to work best for you.
When you choose to quit smoking using the cold turkey method, you have to stop using any tobacco products instantly. You must not smoke even a single cigarette per day. The major advantage of this method is that you eliminate everything that has to do with smoking from your life. You get rid of the cigarettes, ashtrays and lighters. This will help you get used to life without tobacco and without nicotine in particular.
The main drawback of the cold turkey method for quitting smoking is that the withdrawal symptoms are usually quite severe. You will experience nicotine cravings as you are physically addicted to this substance. Due to the lack of additional amounts of nicotine in your body, you may experience stress, anxiety, depression, restlessness, insomnia and even aggression. Increased heart rate, sweating, dizziness and headaches are among the most common physical symptoms that you will have to go through. The good news is that you can use nicotine replacement therapy to help you overcome these side effects.
Progressive quitting is all about reducing the number of cigarettes that you smoke per day until the number reaches zero. This method is more relaxed and those who use it experience fewer and less severe nicotine withdrawal symptoms. It will be easier for you to control yourself as you know that you are allowed a number of cigarettes per day. In general, this is the easier of the two methods.
The problem with quitting progressively is that it is not as effective as cold turkey. At least, this is what doctors conclude based on statistical data. It is very hard, especially for heavy smokers, to reduce the number of cigarettes they smoke gradually. Even though the physical addiction to nicotine may be reduced a bit, the habit of smoking remains and this is what dooms the method to failure, according to most experts.
Overall, it is up to you to decide how to quit smoking. It has been found that the cold turkey method helps smokers with different levels of addiction. Progressive quitting, on the other hand, is most likely to work for those who smoke a fairly small number of cigarettes per day.
#23. Prevent Weight Gain when You Quit Smoking
Perhaps very few people admit this but many individuals start smoking in order to lose weight and fear they will gain weight if they attempt to quit. It is normal to gain a pound or two of weight after you quit smoking especially if the techniques adopted involve eating or chewing something. You have to know that by adopting the proper strategies, the weight gain during the time of quitting can be kept under control. Keep in mind that putting on a pound or two of weight is way better than inviting lungs and heart diseases and different type of cancers.
The most trivial question one may ask is why people tend to gain weight while they are making efforts to cut down on the cigarettes they are smoking. Nicotine is inarguably the most active substance in a cigarette. Incidentally, nicotine is an appetite suppressant in its nature, meaning it decreases the urge to eat and generally results in person eating smaller amounts of food. If the person quits smoking their urge to eat will increases and this will result in additional weight gain in different body areas, especially the stomach and the thighs.
Other than that, normal tobacco intake burns about a couple of hundred calories each day. So, it is natural to put on additional weight during the period of quitting. Although the exact amount of added weight varies from person to person, people generally put on anything from 1 to 10 pounds. Still, most often 5 to 10 pounds are added to the weight of the person if they successfully quit smoking. This added weight is not too much and by getting involved in a little physical activity the weight can be brought back to normal levels.
It is advised by many successful quitters that keeping oneself busy with some activity is a very beneficial thing. It helps to distract you from thoughts of having a smoke. This strategy works for many people. In fact, it is often said to be effective for all. However, there is a drawback here as well - people start over-eating and enjoy junk food to keep their mouth busy. Even in between meals people have something in their mouth and keep on munching on it. This results in added calories into the system and in extra weight.
A common mistake committed by people attempting to quit is to go back to their smoking days after getting scared by the added weight. This must be avoided. The person should stick to the mission for getting rid of their unhealthy smoking habit, rather than start smoking again which will lead to damaging the body and increasing the risk of many medical conditions further.
There are various activities one can do to enhance your efforts to quit cigarettes. Most people suggest adopting a workout routine. Working out is a healthy activity even when one is not trying to quit smoking. Working out on daily basis is highly advisable to avoid many unwanted medical conditions. It is not necessary to spend hours in the gym and shed sweat to keep the body in good shape. Filling half an hour or so with light exercises and jogging, brisk walking or light walking (or whatever the health permits and the medical practitioners approves) is enough. Persistence is a key here, so working out lightly but regularly on daily basis is a sure success path. There is no need to tell you that even when the person feels that he or she has got rid of their smoking habit completely, continuing with the work out plan is more than recommended. In fact it is mandatory.
Instead of depriving the body of food it makes more sense to respect the body's new demand of more food. The reason for doing so is very simple - depriving the body of food results in irritation and makes the process of quitting smoking even more difficult than it needs to be.
However, the thing that can be controlled here is the amount of calories taken. So, instead of taking high-calorie foods, healthy light snacks can be included in the daily diet, especially in between meals. Other than that, avoiding soft drinks and reducing or completely avoiding alcohol is a good way to shed away those extra pounds.
#24. Deal with Social Smoking Triggers
There are a lot of traps for those who want to quit smoking. One of the major ones is social smoking. It is not just about being in a group of people that are using tobacco products. There are different psychological sides to it. You are part of a community so you feel stronger and accepted. This gives you confidence. Besides, it is much better to hold a cigarette and smoke at a social gathering compared to just standing there and getting more and more nervous.
All of these factors make it difficult to quit smoking. Your task is to try to eliminate the need for social smoking. This does not mean that you should stop seeing your friends who have this habit for good. You just need to make some modifications to your lifestyle for the time being.
Tell your friends who smoke that you plan to quit and ask them to respect this decision of yours. The reality is that smokers want to quit, but find it difficult to try so you should expect understanding, support and encouragement rather than withdrawal. You should explain to your friends delicately that you may not be part of the group for a few weeks until you overcome the cravings and the symptoms of withdrawal. It is a good idea to ask them to quit together with you. However, you should not demand that they stop smoking in your presence as this may lead to conflict and hamper your efforts.
Replace smoking during the coffee and lunch breaks at work with a healthy activity. It is important not to join the smokers' group. You can readily go for a walk after having a lunch at a non-smoking restaurant. If you think that you need to be in the company of people, you can join a group of co-workers who do not smoke during the breaks.
Avoid restaurants and bars where you can smoke. Try not to go to parties where a lot of people will be smoking. This is not easy especially if you are a very social and active person. However, you do not have to make it more difficult than it actually is.
Instead of going to a bar, you should enjoy a sports activity with a group of friends. You can play basketball or football. If you think that you will be tempted to smoke at a party, organize another event for you and your loved one or a bunch of friends. You can go see a show or have a pleasant dinner at a fine restaurant.
#25. How a Healthy Lifestyle will Help You to Quit Smoking
Most people who want to quit smoking fail to realize how beneficial a healthy lifestyle can be for their endeavor. The reality is that making some small improvements to your eating and exercise habits will allow you to get rid of your physical and psychological addiction more easily and quickly. In general, you should not miss exploiting anything that can help you to the fullest.
A healthy diet will help you cope more effectively with the nicotine withdrawal symptoms. At the same time, you will be less likely to experience anxiety and low moods which are known to trigger the urge to smoke.
Foods such as whole grains and brown rice which are rich in healthy complex carbohydrates will give you energy and help keep your spirits high. The omega-3, 6 and 9 fatty acids found in fatty fish, nuts and seeds are known to improve brain health and to help you fight the symptoms of depression. Healthy protein-rich foods will help you stay healthy and focused. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. They are the main sources of vitamins and minerals that improve your physical and psychological wellbeing.
Drink plenty of water. This will help you flush all the toxins from tobacco including nicotine out of your body. This will not only help you gain more energy and feel better physically. It will also reduce the strength of your smoking cravings and make them less frequent. Doctors recommend having a glass of fresh water every time you feel like lighting up a cigarette.
Physical activity is equally important to quit smoking effectively. It is also useful for flushing the toxins out of your body through sweat and for dealing with cravings. Besides, when you are physically active, your mind will not be focused on getting a cigarette. It is essential to engage in a physical activity that you like and that you get pleasure from. It is equally important to be active for at least half an hour every day. If you cannot go to yoga classes every day, for instance, you can take short walks, do some exercises in the office and make it a point to climb the stairs on a daily basis.
Find and use methods for getting rid of stress that work effectively for you. Stress is among the major smoking triggers. When you have a cigarette, you feel more relaxed and more confident. You cannot do this anymore so you have to use alternative methods. There are plenty of options to pick from.
#26. Helping Your Child to Quit Smoking
The number of children who smoke grows every year and the age at which they start is lower. It has been found that one in seven children under the age of 15 is a smoker. It is your duty as a parent to help your child quit smoking in order to protect them from disease, premature aging and the increasing social marginalization of smokers.
It is worth looking at the things that will not help your child quit smoking first. Regrettably, many parents react emotionally to the problem and choose the seemingly easier path for aiding their children which involves prohibitions, restrictions and sometimes even emotional and physical abuse. It is natural to be frustrated and upset when you find out that your child is a smoker. However, you should not act based on emotions. You need a plan based on rational ideas. You need to be delicate, patient, understanding and supportive.
Engage your child in a friendly conversation and ask why they have started smoking. Find out more about their smoking habits. Try to make your youngster comfortable about sharing. Do not make the conversation appear as interrogation. Ask questions that will help you figure out why your kid has started lighting up. It may be because of peer pressure and because they want to be part of a social group. It may be due to problems at school or even due to problems at home.
Discuss the dangers of smoking with your child. It is important to pinpoint the serious health risks, but since young people believe that only old people get ill, you may want to focus on the immediate effects of tobacco use such as skin problems, bad breath and discolored nails. Try to explain to your child that this habit is generally not well accepted in social circles, even though it may be popular with their friends.
Present to your child some alternatives to smoking. There are plenty of other cool activities that they can enjoy apart from smoking in the corner of the school yard with a bunch of friends. You can encourage your child to participate in a sport and to engage in a new hobby that corresponds to their interests.
Give your total support to your child when they are trying to quit smoking. You must not preach and act like a police officer, but be there when you are needed and provide motivation and advice. If you smoke, you must make an attempt to quit together with your child.
#27. Getting the Right Mindset to Quit Smoking
Most people who want to quit smoking realize that they are physically addicted to nicotine so they use various methods to cope with the withdrawal symptoms and to resist cravings. However, many ignore the fact that they are psychologically addicted to the habit of smoking. As a result, they lose the battle in their mind. Your mind is the strongest weapon that you have on your side when trying to quit. Find out how to make the most out of it.
Get personal inner motivation first. You have to know why you want to quit smoking. This will make you determined and give you inner strength to stop once and for all. It is a good idea to write down all the reasons for quitting that you have on a piece of paper. It is also recommended to repeat these reasons to yourself when you have cravings. For instance, telling yourself that you are doing this for the wellbeing of your children is bound to give you the inner strength you need to stay away from cigarettes.
Try to eliminate the fear of failure. It is natural to ask yourself what will happen if you fail to quit smoking. You read how hard it is. Your friends tell you this as well. You check the statistics and you see that the odds are not in your favor. In this situation, it is natural to be afraid. The reality is that there is nothing worse than continuing to smoke. You have to tell yourself that it is much better to try and fail than to be in a situation in which you and everyone around you suffer.
Repeat to yourself that you are much stronger than you think. The reality is that most smokers trying to quit fail not because they are weak in front of their habit, but because they think they are weak. Try to focus your mind on all the achievements that you have accomplished because of your persistence and hard work. This will show you that you are strong and capable of achieving literally anything. Think of quitting as a goal and consider how happy and satisfied you will be with your success in the end.
Imagine your life without smoking. Think of how much more energy you will have. Imagine yourself with softer and smoother skin and whiter teeth. Think of all the additional benefits that these factors will bring to your life. You will be able to spend more time doing fun things such as playing football, hiking or dancing. You will be more attractive and confident and this is bound to help you in all spheres of life.
#28. Exercise to Successfully Quit Smoking
There are many aids that will help you quit smoking for good, but many people tend to underestimate their importance and so fail to achieve their goal. You should not make this mistake if you want to be healthy and happy. One of the main aids that you have on your side is exercise.
There are three major benefits which you will enjoy from exercise and that will help you quit smoking effectively. Firstly, when you work out, you sweat more. All toxins, including nicotine, are more effectively flushed out of your body. As a result, you will experience weaker and shorter cravings. Exercise can take your mind off lighting up a cigarette. This is especially applicable to activities that you find interesting and fun. When you are physically active, you burn calories. This counters the effect of the slower metabolism and the increased appetite caused by the cessation of smoking.
It is best to enjoy mild aerobic exercise for at least half an hour every day if you want to quit smoking for good. You can walk to and from the supermarket. You can jog in the park. You can choose to climb the stairs. The crucial thing is not to sit or lie down.
Engaging in a physical activity for one hour three times a week is a must. It is important to choose something enjoyable. Think of an activity that relaxes you and gives you satisfaction. You can go for gardening, which is one of the most relaxing hobbies recommended for stress relief. Engage in one of the popular team sports if you like being around people and working in a group. You can readily go for one of the all time favorite activities such as cycling and swimming. If you like music, you should consider dancing and aerobics which will certainly help you quit smoking.
Not all people like muscle toning exercises, but they can help you considerably. You can get a mat and perform them at home once or twice a week. As your body gets leaner and more toned, you will enjoy a boost in self confidence. This psychological effect is extremely beneficial for quitting smoking. One greatly relaxing and generally enjoyable activity that offers muscle toning and stretching exercises is yoga. Consider including it in your weekly routine.
Use exercise to overcome nicotine cravings. Go out for a walk or engage in another physical activity such as cleaning whenever you feel a need for a cigarette. This will certainly help you quit smoking.
#29. Diseases Caused by Smoking
Like it or not, smoking has a number of serious consequences despite the fact that people who smoke just dont seem to worry about them. Perhaps those who engage in smoking may have reasons for doing it. While some claim they get pleasure from smoking there are others who do it to be accepted by a certain group of people. The latter are usually called social smokers. If you want to enjoy the company of your friends, you are likely to smoke with them if they do engage in such practices. Most people seem to start smoking this way.
Peer pressure and many other reasons push young people to start smoking. It usually begins as a casual activity but can easily grow to become very addictive. If youve ever wondered what kinds of diseases are caused by smoking, you should feel encouraged to read to the last word.
One of the major causes of lung cancer is smoking. Period! Im sure you are aware that the disease could be caused by other means. Even though this remains the case to a large extent, the fact still remains that a large number of recorded lung cancer cases come as a result of smoking. For instance, it is known that some 87% of the reported cases in the United States are attributed to smoking. As you can see, the risk can be extremely high amongst smokers. Apart from this, any other person who inhales the smoke or in other words, the secondhand smoker is also at risk of contracting this kind of health problem.
In addition to this, you may want to know that heart diseases can also be caused by smoking. This has become a major problem for many smokers because a lot of complications result from it. There are many who develop smokers cough. If early treatment is not sought, the disease could be very dangerous. Apart from these, there are several other health problems associated with smoking. One of them is the peripheral vascular disease. It must be stressed that those who already have other health problems are going to have their health condition worsened by smoking. In addition to these, other diseases that could be caused by smoking include emphysema as well as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease; both can be fatal.
There are many people whose immune systems are weakened as a result of continuous smoking. This can be very unhealthy in the sense that common colds and respiratory infections can then be the results of smoking. It must be pointed out that the severity of the habit could be one of the factors that account for the various diseases that result from smoking. While some people have a couple of cigarettes once in a while there are certain people who can smoke up to 20 cigarettes on daily basis. Obviously such people are most likely going to be at risk. In fact, some people have developed tuberculosis as a result of this habit.
Sometimes, the infections that are caused by smoking can be difficult to identify without examination and testing carried out by a specialist health provider. It is always better to be cautious of the risks that come as a result of smoking. Searching for information on this shouldnt be difficult. You should consult relevant websites on the World Wide Web.
Many have suffered because of smoking. Many continue to add their names to the long list of sufferers every day. If you go online today and do a quick search, you will be overwhelmed by the amount of information available to you. Those with little or no knowledge on the dangers of smoking should be happy to gather enough information to base their decisions on. Apart from that your health provider would be able to help you find the right quitting method for you. You will also get advice and support.
Another disease that can be caused by smoking is jaundice. It may occur in a fetus that is exposed to smoking. Infants born with low birth weight are at greater risk of health problems. This low weight is sometimes due to the fact that they were exposed to nicotine and other harmful chemical compounds present in cigarettes while in the womb.
#30. Can Lung Cancer be cured?
The survival rate of the lung cancer patients is quite low. Basically, the survival rate refers to the percentage of those individuals that are diagnosed with a certain type of lung cancer and survive the disease for a certain period of time after the diagnosis. The statistical data goes to show that the maximum life span after the detection of lung cancer would be about five years at the most. Asbestos exposure is considered to be one of the key causes of this disease, apart from smoking.
Cure for lung cancer could be based on the following essential aspects:
* The stage at which lung cancer is diagnosed by the physician is of critical importance. There are plenty of individuals that are not aware of the fact that they are victims of the dreaded disease even after the disease starts to erode the essential organs inside the body. Over a period of time, the symptoms are overlooked by the individuals for many reasons. It could be the nature of their work that takes their attention away from their symptoms. At times, other kinds of reasons might also be present. One fine morning when it is noticed to be a serious problem and to cause hefty suffocation in the tracheal tract or irritation from within, then the sufferer has no other choice but to allot time to visit a physician in the area. Again money is also a constraint which makes the individual delay such visits to the doctor for diagnosis. Finally, when the physician examines the sufferer, it is already too late. Moreover, the doctor has to take his time in rightly noting the symptoms for the precise diagnosis of lung cancer in the individual. During this time, the tumor is eating away essential parts of the bodily organs. These are the reasons for the low survival rates. A complete check up of the body performed on a periodical basis is essential for keeping ailments at bay. Prevention is always a better option than trying to find a cure for the suffering later on.
* The type of lung cancer determines to a great extent whether or not it can be cured. There are several varieties of tumors basically. Some are quite lethal, while some of them can be removed through modern techniques that are used in the field of medicine. Oncology therapies and treatment methods with the aid of sophisticated equipments are found to have improved a lot in recent days. There are innovative equipments that have been introduced to the health care sector and that make use of radiation to destroy and prevent the spreading of lung cancer as well as many other types of tumor.
* As soon as you find problems in your normal way of breathing and unusual coughing, you should approach your physician immediately. They will check if you have any additional symptoms of lung cancer. In this way, early diagnosis could lead to better effects from treatment. Most of us do not bother to do so. The asbestos content that causes mesothelioma is not something that could get into the lungs through smoking or other types of bad habits alone. There are so many people that are teetotalers and yet have acquired mesothelioma. The exposure to asbestos, and more precisely the exposure to its fine micro particles that are present in the atmospheric air that we breathe, is a major cause to the ailment. Exposure to such an environment could happen both in the industrial sector and in the residential areas too.
* The general health of the individual, his habits and his immune system would all determine the levels to which one could effectively fight lung cancer. Strongly built individuals that are not used to smoking or tobacco intake can be cured to the best extent with the aid of the latest advanced methodologies that have been introduced in the health sector, provided that the condition has been diagnosed in the early stages of development.
* Recurrence of cancer is something which can happen at times due to improper following of the doctor's instructions by the individual. Sometimes, it can happen for other reasons too. In any case, the survival rate is quite small. Hence, it is best to lower your risk of lung cancer by quitting smoking.
#31. Are There any Benefits to Smoking?
Almost all of us are well aware of the fact that the habit of smoking is not good for the health. Still, people do smoke. Why do they do so if there is not anything at all that they find beneficial in this activity? Could there actually be benefits to the smoker? Are there many such benefits that need consideration?
Scientists have revealed that the brain becomes more alert as a result of smoking a cigarette. Smoking cigarettes can suppress the appetite, so people who want to stay slim often smoke to do so. Most smokers claim that they benefit from:
* More focus and concentration
* Improved memory and improved learning ability at times
* Improved alertness
* Lower stress levels - smoking alleviates the pressure built
* Better relaxation - smoking allows the smoker to chill out
* Improved metabolism - smoking raises the metabolic rate and hence helps to maintain healthy weight
These are some of the major claims put forth by smokers advocating their habitual addiction towards smoking cigarettes. Constipation cannot be attributed towards the benefits of smoking. It could be a symptom of nicotine withdrawal. Some of the adolescents and even elderly individuals are of the opinion that the components in the cigarette smoke have a shielding effect and protect the smoker from the development of acne.
Lower interest towards the intake of food could be an advantage of smoking at times. Similarly, there is statistical data that provides foolproof evidence that the percentage of non-smoking individuals affected by Parkinsons disease is higher. The figures denote that most of the people with the disease are non smokers rather than smokers. Similar correlations are drawn in the same approach for variety of other ailments such as skin cancer and so on. The statistics are presented as part of research papers in the top most journals in the field of science and technology.
One should understand the fact that these do not by any means constitute foolproof absolute evidence which confirms that smoking is a good habit and that it is part of a healthy life style. The negligible or minor advantages that might be there cannot be exaggerated to sideline the major disadvantages of smoking. Even passive smoking is not healthy at all. One should avoid gatherings attended by large numbers of smokers. It could happen in the corporate environment during breaks after sessions or presentations, that a group of smokers tend to smoke in the presence of one or two non-smokers that join the conversation as well. It is not healthy to do so.
If you are smart enough you should pick up the essential aspect that you are benefiting from when you are smoking. Try to find the alternative means in which you could get the same benefit, provided that it is not worse than the habit of smoking. There are so many people that believe that the digestion rates are better after smoking a cigarette. Do not try chewing tobacco to replace the smoking of a cigarette so that you can get the same effect. It is not a better replacement at all. Drink a cup of hot tea just after a good meal as this paves the way for effective digestion. Cut down the soda that accompanies meals. This enhances the digestion rate and ensures longevity as well.
The conclusion is simple. Yes, there are benefits that could be associated with the habit of smoking. There are statistics, reports and studies that reveal such facts and validate them. Still, none of these benefits can be significant when compared to the enormous number of detrimental effects that smoking can cause an individual. The probability of getting one or other type of cancer is not something that should be ignored while advocating smoking to have a few negligible benefits. It is crystal clear that smoking is bad for the health. If you are not a smoker and you wonder about these benefits, then there is no necessity or urge to start to smoke as it will only be detrimental to your health and nothing else.
#32. Alternative Therapies for Smoking Cessation
The fact that it is difficult to quit smoking should not discourage you. Quite the opposite, you should try to find aids that will help you overcome the difficulties and stay on track. Most often, doctors recommend nicotine replacement therapy. However, there are alternative therapies that you should consider as well.
Before you consider each one of the available alternative therapies for quitting smoking, it is worth defining what these treatments are exactly. Basically, these are methods which have been found to work in a large number of patients, but have not been formally approved for smoking cessation by the medical community. This does not mean that they are unsafe or ineffective. Another important thing to note is that they may be used to complement a medical treatment involving the use of nicotine replacement products.
Hypnotherapy is one of the most widely used alternative therapies for quitting smoking. The hypnotherapist takes you into a relaxed state of mind. They open your subconscious mind to suggestions. These are designed to help strengthen your will and determination to quit and to develop a negative attitude towards cigarettes and smoking.
Despite the common misconception, hypnotherapy is not dangerous. The hypnotherapist cannot play with your mind and make you do things that you do not want to do. In general, you are totally aware of what is going on during the session and you cannot be forced to do anything against your will. More evidence is necessary to confirm the effectiveness of hypnotherapy, but it has worked for many people so far. It is recommended to use the services of a reputable and experienced therapist if you choose this option.
Cognitive behavioral therapy is sometimes recommended for quitting smoking. With the help of this therapy, you will identify your habits related to smoking and you will learn how to use effective methods for overcoming them. The main goal of the treatment is to break these habits. You should try cognitive behavioral therapy if you feel that you cannot overcome the habit of smoking by yourself.
Acupuncture is another one of the popular alternative therapies for quitting smoking. It has been found that the insertion of needles at certain points of the body stimulates the secretion of brain chemicals that make you feel relaxed and happy. When you are not stressed out, anxious or depressed, you are less likely to smoke. In general, acupuncture is safe and may help you achieve your goal provided that the treatment is performed by a licensed specialist.
There are plenty of ways in which you can quit smoking. Rehabilitation centres are there to teach smokers how to overcome their habit effectively. In general, willpower is the ultimate key to success.
#33. Advice for Pregnant Women to Quit Smoking
Doctors cannot stress enough the importance of quitting smoking for pregnant women. If you are about to become a mom and you continue lighting up, the risk of miscarriage, premature delivery and birth defects increases considerably. It has also been found that the mortality rate in infants born to mothers who smoke is higher. For all these reasons, you have to get rid of your habit. If you manage to do it for good, you can be certain that you will have much healthier children.
Use a plan to quit smoking. This is the number one tip all pregnant women get. Set a quit date and read all about the transformations that will occur in your body as it clears the toxins delivered by tobacco. You have to be prepared to experience coughs, headaches, irritability, anxiety and low mood. These are natural symptoms that usually go away in days. One important thing to note is that quitting will not have any negative impact on you and on your baby. Quite the opposite, this will be extremely beneficial for both of you.
Remove all smoking triggers from your life. Throw away ashtrays and lights. Think of the habits that you associate with lighting up such as having a coffee or watching TV and get rid of them, replace them with other ones or modify them so that you are not tempted to get a cigarette. Try to avoid places where smoking is permitted. Avoid being around people that smoke. It is better to make these small sacrifices in order to ensure the wellbeing of your child.
Find other things apart from smoking that make you feel relaxed and happy. In general, pregnancy is a huge motivating factor for women to quit smoking. However, it is natural to feel worried at time when you are expecting a child. The psychological nicotine withdrawal symptoms described above will make any emotional disturbance even worse. That is why you should use relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, engage in mild aerobic exercise and indulge in the small pleasures of life such as hot baths in the evening and going to the movies.
It is best not to use nicotine replacement therapy to quit smoking when you are pregnant. Even though there is no foolproof evidence of the dangers of this treatment for the mother and the baby, doctors recommend avoiding it for safety reasons. Another reason for going without this therapy is that it may be ineffective for pregnant women. A recent study has shown that it does not work well due to the changes in metabolism that occur during pregnancy.
#34. Smokeless Cigarettes Gaining Popularity
E Cigarette is a Smokeless Cigarette which is the healthier way of smoking. A Smokeless Cigarette provides you with the nicotine but without the dangerous and cancerous ingredients of a real cigarette. Also the Smokeless Cigarette is a nice way to be around your non smoking friends which are usually running off the minute you light a real cigarette. The smoke that appears is only water vapor, so theres no bad smell and no second hand smoking either. You can smoke your new e-cig anywhere since youre not really smoking; thus, the smoking ban does not apply to E Cigarettes.
What you do is get out there and buy a starter kit, make sure you always have the battery charged; two batteries would be best so always one is charged and ready in case the other one is running out of power. E-Juice offers refillable cartridges with vitamin in the vapor. There is also E-Juice cartridges in different nicotine strength. Smoke free cigarettes seem a lot healthier than real cigarettes. You can buy the refill cartridges from E-Juice not only in different nicotine strength but also in different flavors. So no matter if you want the tobacco taste you used to or any other taste like vanilla or coffee, it is your choice how you want to enjoy the electronic cigarette. New is that E-Juice has the vitamin vapor now for the refill cartridges.
It does not take much to get started with smokeless cigarettes, after you get a starter kit all you need to do is charge the battery use the E-Juice refill and smoke away. Nobody will be bothered by your smoking habit and people are pretty interested in this way of smoking, even non smokers are. You can smoke E cigarettes without any nicotine in it also just if you used to the hand in mouth habit of smoking.
Smokeless cigarettes are cheaper than real cigarettes because one cartridge is like one pack of cigarettes so eventually you do save a lot of money by smoking the electronic cigarettes. No matter how much nicotine or which flavor you are going to smoke with it. So it is not only better for your health but also better for your wallet. You also get charger so you can charge your e cigarette even in your car, so no matter where you at you always able to smoke. E-Juice makes it easy to refill your own cartridges for much cheaper than buying new cartridges. You can change flavors stick with the same one or whatever you want.
#35. Use Chantix To Overcome The Side Effects Of Quit Smoking
Quit smoking is easier said than done. Even the most determined people find it hard to cope with nicotine withdrawal symptoms. However, availability of the quit smoking drug Champix has made it easier to deal with quit smoking side effects. Quitting smoking is one of the best decisions you can ever take in your life. Once you quit smoking, your health starts to pick up immediately. However, you may face certain quit smoking side effects for a few days. This is because nicotine is an extremely addictive substance. It affects your brain and stimulates the release of dopamine which gives you pleasure for a short while. When you quit smoking, your brain starts craving for its stipulated dose of nicotine. The craving is so intense that you start experiencing quit smoking side effects which are also termed as nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Some of the most commonly reported quit smoking side effects include headache, anxiety, anger, nervousness, depression, cough, sore throat and dry mouth. These side effects are most bothersome, especially during the first three days of your smoking cessation process. These eventually subside by the end of the first week. The first few days of your quit smoking process are therefore the hardest to overcome. Once you pass these successfully, you have high chances of quitting successfully for life.
Earlier, the only option before people was to quit smoking via the cold turkey method. This means, you quit smoking by sheer will-power alone. Though many people are still able to quit successfully via this method, it has been observed that most people have to make at least 4-10 attempts to quit before they actually succeed. Hence, the chances of quitting smoking are quite low with this method. Thanks to the advancements in medical science, you now have several advanced quit smoking aids that relieve you of the quit smoking side effects quite effectively.
Currently, one of the most advanced smoking cessation aids is a quit smoking drug called champix varenicline. Developed by Pfizer pharmaceuticals, champix is an FDA approved quit smoking drug. The medicine helps to relieve you of the painful nicotine withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline dupes your brain into thinking that it has received its dose of nicotine. You therefore do not experience any craving for nicotine. Another unique feature of champix is that it makes smoking less pleasurable for you. So even if you smoke during your quit smoking treatment with champix, you do not derive the same pleasure as you used to earlier. You are therefore not tempted to light up a cigarette again. As a result, your odds of quitting smoking increase with champix. The medicine works better than Zyban, the only other FDA approved quit smoking pill apart from champix. It may be noted that both champix and Zyban are prescription only drugs. You need to consult your doctor before using any of these smoking cessation drugs.
If you do not wish to take medications, you can take the help of nicotine replacement therapy to relieve yourself of the quit smoking side effects. In this method, nicotine is supplied to your body externally so that you are relieved of the nicotine withdrawal symptoms and also saved from the other harmful substances in cigarette smoke. HoweverScience Articles, this method is not preferred as it supplies your body with harmful nicotine and also involves a certain risk of re-addiction.
#36. Effects And Side Effects of Chantix and Zyban
Champix and Zyban are the two drugs which can help in quitting smoking. It also helps in increasing the rate of smoking cessation and reduces nicotine cravings experienced by smokers when they give up smoking.
If you are looking for weapons in your arsenal to help you stop smoking then there are two revolutionary prescription medications that are known to be doing the rounds; namely Zyban and Champix. Bupropion, the active ingredient in Zyban, is a prescription medication that facilitates smoking cessation. It works by combating and reducing the cravings associated with nicotine withdrawal, when one gives up smoking. While varenicline, the active ingredient in Champix, works by reducing the pleasure associated with smoking. Manufactured by Pfizer, Champix is reputed to be more successful than Zyban when it comes to smoking cessation.
Zyban vs. Champix
Both are prescription medications that have been approved by the FDA for the treatment of nicotine addiction. When it comes to approval, there is very little to choose between the two. The birth of Zyban was not as a smoking cessation drug; it was primarily developed as an anti-depressant. During its clinical trials, Zyban was noted to bring about a reduction in the need to smoke amongst smokers who participated in these trials. Over time this beneficial effect has been well documented, but researchers are still not sure as to how Zyban actually works. The problem with Zyban is that there are a few psychological side effects associated with the intake of this medication.
Champix, on the other hand, originated as a drug that was specifically developed to help people curb their smoking habit. Champix works at two levels. Firstly, it reduces the nicotine cravings experienced by smokers when they give up smoking. Secondly, Champix does not allow the nicotine to reach the pleasure receptors in the brain. When nicotine reaches the pleasure receptors in the brain, it acts on them inducing a feeling of pleasure. This is why people get addicted to smoking. However, with Champix, smokers do not get the same amount of pleasure that they earlier did. As a result, Champix helps them quit smoking easily. The fact that it works at two levels means that it takes away both the temptation and the pleasure associated with smoking.
Whos the winner?
There is no hands down winner amongst the two both Zyban and Champix as both have their salient features. HoweverArticle Search, there is no doubt that Champix offers a two-fold benefit to its user. The abandonment rate of this medication is also lower than that of Zyban. While the success rate associated with Champix is seen to be higher than that of Zyban.
#37. Smoking Cigarettes Causes Conflict
When you ask a smoker why they use cigarettes, they will almost always say because they like to smoke. However, smoking is hard because the person has to use great effort to suppress the normal body defense mechanism with each cigarette and the side effects of smoking are unpleasant. When the smoker says they like to smoke, the reality of the difficulty in smoking and the unpleasant side effects of smoking creates conflict and adds to the difficulty to quit smoking.
Smoking cigarettes is very hard to do. Not only does the smoker go through miserable months of "learning" to smoke, but great effort has to be exerted to suppress the normal body defense mechanisms with each cigarette smoked for as long as they smoke. It never gets any easier because the body always works to resist that which is unhealthy for it. The learning process to smoke builds the Psychological Smoking Mechanism. This mechanism represses the body's normal defenses against harsh chemicals entering into delicate lungs that were only designed for clean air. Over time, this mechanism moves into the subconscious and out of conscious awareness.
The Psychological Smoking Mechanism is what keeps a person smoking, not the cigarette or even a conscious decision to smoke. The conscious decision to smoke was made between the ages of 12 and 16 during the identity crisis of puberty. After the Psychological Smoking Mechanism is created, it runs the smoking habit in contradiction to conscious thought processes. This contradiction creates conflict and the smoker attempts to ease this conflict by trying to convince themselves they like to smoke. This increases the difficulty to quit smoking.
Unfortunately, no matter how hard the smoker tries, the conflict can't be resolved because they have to overlook the intense effort to suppress their body defense mechanisms with each cigarette smoked and also, some very real and unpleasant side effects. In this article, we will look at two of the most common side effects of smoking and why they cause conflict.
The Smoker's Morning
When I was growing up, my parents were smokers. After dinner, the cigarettes came out, watching TV, the cigarettes came out, visiting friends..... well, you get the picture.
Morning was a particularly disgusting time because mom and dad had to clear out their lungs from the previous days smoking. The sound of coughing, hawking and spitting was a routine morning. Yuck. If you want to see a movie that accurately depicts the smoker's morning, watch "Cold Turkey" (1971) with Dick Van Dyke and Bob Newhart.
Nonsmokers also experience the need to clear out their lungs; it's called a bad cold or allergy sinus drainage. It is miserable coughing up junk or as a doctor would say, having a productive cough. We are glad to get well and be rid of the gunk coming out of our lungs, Yet, this reaction is an everyday experience for the smoker!
Coughing up gunk every morning of every day; how many smokers can claim they like this? But that is what they are doing when they say they like to smoke. This creates conflict.
The Smoker's Day is a Series of Coughs
Day after day, for the smoker, is coughing and throat clearing; there is a name for it: "smoker's cough"! Walt Disney, creator of Mickey Mouse and Disneyland, was a heavy smoker and noted for his distinctive smoker's cough that preceded him wherever he went. Sadly, he died of lung cancer a few weeks after being diagnosed.
Coughing is a way of life for smokers and they unconsciously attempt to reduce coughing by shallow breathing. They are trading coughing for a lack of oxygen. Since smoking reduces oxygen anyway, the smoker is further depriving themselves of necessary oxygen.
Lack of oxygen is a miserable situation;. ask anyone who has suffered from pneumonia. Constant coughing is also unpleasant. A smoker who claims they like to smoke are saying they like a persistent cough and shallow breathing which leads to oxygen deprivation or shortness of breath. Obviously, they really don't like these things and this creates conflict.
Conclusion
The Psychological Smoking Mechanism operates at the subconscious level and enables and compels a person to smoke. To justify smoking, the person claims they like it. However, the intense effort it takes to suppress the body defenses to smoke each cigarette along with the aversive side effects of smoking, gunk coming out of the lungs every morning and a persistent cough or shortness of breath may be consciously ignored by the smoker, but are a reality. This contradiction creates a psychological conflict which in turn, strengthens the compulsion to smoke making it harder to quit smoking.
#38. Relationship Between Skin Problems and Smoking
The smoking effects may give you many side effects of skin and hair. It is easy to distinguish a smoker from a non-smoker by looking at his or her skin, fingers and face. Smoking not only causes yellowed fingers and fingertips or premature wrinkling but also a variety of serious skin problems. For instance, smoking increases the risk of developing psoriasis, a chronic skin problem, which is not only unsightly but also painful.
Clinical studies establishing the link between smoking and skin problems
Many studies have established the negative effect of smoking on skin. A recent study in South Korea involving smokers and ex-smokers between the age of 20 and 69 found that, out of the 2 groups smokers had a higher amount of wrinkles. The study also showed that the ex smokers age had less wrinkles than those who still smoke.
The vulnerability of skin to smoke and other substances
Skin is the most sensitive and vulnerable of all body parts. It is exposed to smoke directly as well as indirectly. Smoke released in the environment has a drying effect on the surface of your skin. Inhaling smoke restricts blood vessels, which hampers the flow of blood to your skin and deprives skin of oxygen and essential nutrients. Smoking also leads to the creasing of your mouth, the hollowing of your cheeks and premature wrinkling around your eyes and your mouth. Smoking depletes the natural level of vitamin A in your body, an essential nutrient needed for the protection of your skin.
How does smoking cause skin problems?
The most likely cause behind skin problems in smokers is an increased production of harmful enzymes that break down collagen in the skin. Collagen is a protein type that helps to keep the skin smooth and supple by protecting its elasticity. Research has shown that smoking causes wrinkles and damage to skin prematurely, by up to 10 to 20 years. Some of the damage done to the skin by smoking is irreversible, therefore the sooner you quit smoking, the better.
Options to quit smoking
Champix and Zyban are 2 options you can take to help you to quit smoking. Both these drugs are FDA approved and safe and effective options to quit smoking. HoweverFree Reprint Articles, you must not take both these drugs simultaneously to increase your chances of success in quitting smoking. Consult a doctor or a healthcare professional to discover how well these treatments can work for you.
#39. Why do Women Smoke and what Cost Women do pay for Smoking?
There are many hidden side effects of smoking for women which are not reveled yet. Smoking can lead to a miscarriage, which puts strain on couples and is accountable for many future relationship problems later in life. Find more in this article. Ugly facts of smoking in women
Its essential that each and every woman takes care of her own health and well being. Giving up smoking is an important way to begin this approach and is strongly recommended by doctors to decrease the chances of serious health problems for women later in life. Some smoking related health problems can cause infertility as well as fatal diseases like cancer.
How does smoking affect women?
Women smokers suffer short term repercussions such as yellow teeth, bad breath and premature wrinkles, which can be seen early on in life. Research has shown that women are more susceptible to the dangers of nicotine as they have a slower metabolic cleansing system than men have. Women are 12 times more prone to death due to lung cancer than non-smokers are and have an increased risk of other cancers such as larynx, pharynx, mouth, kidney, esophagus, pancreas, kidney and bladder cancers. They are also 10 times more susceptible to death due to bronchitis and emphysema.
Side effects of smoking in women
Women smokers experience unusual vaginal discharge, bleeding, and an increased frequency of secondary amenorrhea, absence of menstruation and irregularity of periods. Women are at more risk of developing cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes during the use of estrogens. Women who smoke are 72% more likely to suffer from infertility as compared to non-smokers.
Factors hampering normal sexual function
Nicotine restricts blood flow, which hampers sexual arousal. The blood flow to the labia, clitoris and vagina flows less steadily, which has a detrimental effect on arousal and sensitivity. Smoking also leads to decreased fertility. Pregnant women who smoke can face issues such as preterm delivery, premature rupture of their membranes, placenta previa, miscarriage and neonatal death.
Why do women smoke? - Lifestyle of women smokers
Even though some women are aware of these problems, they continue smoking. Some popular reasons cited by women for their smoking is that it allows them to relax and curb any present or potential feelings of aggression and sometimes even depression. Stress can become a frequent occurrence in the workplace and at home, and smoking is one way women often relieve themselves from that stressful sensation. Many women also smoke to lose weight. Although this is an effective method, the negative effects significantly outweigh the advantages.
#40. Cigar Smoke and How Dangerous It is Being Exposed to It
Second hand smoke is a danger that we're all aware of. A lot of people don't know that second hand smoke is just as dangerous as actual smoking, or more dangerous. The actual proof says that smoking is as dangerous as second hand smoke is, so don't let others smoke around you.
Environmental tobacco smoke is the name of all the second hand smoke that cigarettes and other tobacco products emit. This can mean cigarettes, cigars or other types of tobacco products, as long as they are lit and give out smoke. This second hand smoke can include substances like carbon monoxide, nicotine, ammonia and hydrogen cyanide. These are all types of irritants that are emitted by cigarette and cigar smoke. Another well known side-effect of environmental tobacco smoke is that they release carcinogen substances, such as nitrosamines, vinyl chlorine, arsenic, benzene and hydrocarbons. As you might expect, cigarettes emit less environmental tobacco smoke than cigars are, as they are smaller. Inhaling smoke from a cigar is more dangerous, as you might expect, since it emits more smoke than a normal cigarette will. While the environmental tobacco smoke that is released by cigarettes and cigars is just as toxic, some differences between the two still exist. These differences are created by the different methods of production that cigarettes have when compared with cigars.
Cigars are manufactured through an aging and fermentation process, which is long. During this long fermentation period, there are high numbers of carcinogens being produced. After a cigar goes through the aging and fermentation process, it's put in a wrapper that is nonporous, which will make sure that the cigar doesn't consume too fast when lit. Besides the carcinogens released during fermentation, the wrapper adds his own. When you light up a cigar, the wrapper contributes to the amount of carcinogens that will be released during the smoking process.
The length and girth of cigars is the second reason why they're giving a bigger quantity of carcinogens. The reason is as simple as the size of cigars when compared to cigarettes. Since they're bigger, they give out more smoke, which also has a bigger concentration of irritants and toxins. Another problem is that the way cigars are designed makes the smoking period much longer than it is with a regular cigarette, which is also recommended so people can enjoy the experience. The end result for cigars is that they take longer to finish, so more smoke is being created. Going in places where people smoke cigars shouldn't be an option for non-smokers. Avoid taking in second hand smoke, and if you are a cigar smokerFree Web Content, make sure you do it in a place that is well ventilated.
#41. How Does Hypnosis to Quit Smoking Really Work?
Why is hypnosis to quit smoking more effective then using patching and pills and it's drawbacks in real life. Why seeing a hypnotherapist takes much less time and energy from patient to quit smoking.
We all know smoking is very dangerous and can cause many different cancers. This may be why you are curious to know if hypnosis to quit smoking works. You may have already tried the patches, pills, gum, or many other products that promise to teach you how to quit smoking, but they did not work for you. Recent studies have proven that hypnosis to quit smoking does work. It can be a very effective tool to help manage your nicotine addiction and get you away from the cigarette smoking habit. If you are interested in becoming healthier, then you need to understand some of the reasons why hypnosis works to help you quit smoking.
A Few of the Reasons Why Hypnosis to Quit Smoking Works Granted learning how to quit smoking with hypnosis will not work for everybody; experts have proven the success rate to be about 2 out of 3 smokers. This means you will have a better chance to actually quit when you use hypnosis. Comparing this success rate to about 1 out of 4 with other nicotine replacement programs, it is easy to see that hypnosis can help you quit. When you become hypnotized you will be in an altered state mentally. This is a state where you will be most susceptible to the suggestion of quitting the current habit of smoking. Your subconscious is the most powerful part of your mind and when using hypnosis a trained professional will be able to reprogram your thoughts about smoking. The only way the high 66% success rate of hypnosis can be guaranteed is if it is done properly. This is not something to have done by an amateur. You will be relying heavily on the hypnotherapists you choose and you want to make sure you get a professional with a proven track record. If you don't, then you may not be able to quit simply because your hypnotherapists doesn't know what they are doing. One of the main reasons people don't use hypnosis to quit smoking is the cost. It is not going to be as cheap as the gum, the patches, or other programs to help you quit. Many insurance plans won't cover hypnosis to help you quit smoking, but some will. In this case you can use self-hypnosis or subliminal CDs to help you kick the habit. This is one of the best cost effective alternatives and it is much more affordable than actually paying for the sessions. However, if money is not an issue and you can afford to see a hypnotherapistArticle Search, then you should. They will be able to do much more for you in less time than many of the self-hypnosis programs can.
The Process Used for Hypnosis to Quit Smoking Typically your first appointment with a hypnotherapist will be used to evaluate your current state and assess your needs. You are not going to quit smoking after just one session and it takes more than just one time to quit the habit completely. IT is an ongoing process of using hypnotherapy that can help to eliminate your addiction to smoking. If you find a place that promises to help you quit smoking after just one session you should avoid them. These types of hypnotherapists are rarely successful in delivering on their promises and you are most likely going to be disappointed with this type of session. Make sure you get a hypnotherapist who understands your goal of quitting and can get you there with more than one session. Make sure you choose the right person for the job and if you don't have some type of connection with the hypnotherapist it will be hard to trust them. Having the right amount of trust is very important because without it you may not get the results you are looking for. Take your time and make sure you are comfortable with the person you choose. Besides the fact that hypnosis to quit smoking does work it is also one of the most natural ways to kick the habit. You won't have to worry about any side effects like you may have to experience with pills and other things to help you quit smoking. With hypnosis the only side effect will be no longer spending money on cigarettes.
#42. Vaporizers: doing the trick for smokers
Smoking is a habit that is quite injurious to health. There are people all around the world that are trying to quit smoking because of its harmful effects on the human body. There have been quite a few techniques to quit smoking but among them use of vaporizers stand out. The reason vaporizers stand out is because of its effectiveness in helping people quit smoking. Vaporizers are becoming a hit among people. Even many doctors have started advising vaporizer for quitting smoking. Since the market of vaporizer is steaming hot and the demand of these products are rising continuously. This continuous rise in demand has tempted many companies into the business of manufacturing vaporizers. Different vaporizers manufacturers are launching different types of vaporizer. The main purpose of the vaporizer remains same but there is small various in the technique or equipments installed in it. New and more modern vaporizers are being introduced in the market to attract customer base.
If you are looking towards buying vaporizers then you might face trouble in deciding which one to choose. There are lots of options varying in sizes, technology, money, and forms. Vapir vaporizer, herbal vaporizerFree Reprint Articles, volcano vaporizer and digital vaporizer are among the best vaporizers that are available in the market. Many people take help of different online forums that are particularly dedicated towards vaporizer. These forums provide honest vaporizers reviews to the seekers. Most of the reviews are given by people who have already used the product and hence chances of getting a fake review is less.
Buying a vaporizer is not a difficult job but getting a perfect vaporizer for yourself in the decided budget might require a bit of research. Many people think that research is not going to make a lot of difference when it comes to vaporizer. There are many websites that are offering some discounts on the purchase of the vaporizers and some offers are also running to provide you some extra accessories at a reduced cost.
There is lot of reason for buying a vaporizer as they help in quitting smoking and also provides a safer and healthier life. Vaporizer provides the person with the purest form of vapors direct from the herb. Vaporizers also help in curing of different respiratory diseases. If you are a smoker then trying vaporizer is one of the best things that you are going to give to yourself and to people who are living or working around you.
#43. Quit Smoking By Using Herbs
Quitting smoking is a challenging task. Indeed if youve tried to quit smoking before, chances are that you have been at least unsuccessful once. Interestingly, one of the most effective ways to quit smoking is to use herbs. Because of its effectiveness, it is also among the popular ways to stop smoking.
Among the herbs used are:
1. Willow 2. Garcinia Cambogia 3. Oregon Grape Root 4. Oak 5. Lobelia 6. Avena Sativa 7. Gotu Cola
One of the more popular herbs among listed above is Lobelia. Smokers have make use of this herb to quit smoking. It is actually an expectorant that clean lungs and can be also used to treat asthma, cough, pleurisy or bronchitis. Lobelia has also other effects to the user such as it being a relaxant, to reduce inflammation and pain as well as easing muscle tension.
Lobelia also helps to reduce the desire to smoke hence slowly and gradually reducing the cravings for cigarettes. However, one must be cautious is using this type of herb as it may have side effects including vomiting, drowsiness and respiratory failure if overused.
Are Herbs Safe?
Most smokers who want to use herbs to help them quit have this question in mind. Herbs are generally safe to use. But it is also safe to say that one must study the side effects that they may have. Also mixing herbs with other medications may cause complications. Therefore, it is therefore advisable to consult a personal physician or herbalist regarding this method of quitting.
One of the main benefits from using herbs is that it provides relieve from tension and stress that smokers usually experience during the process of quitting. They can also calm a person down and cause the user to be relaxed as well as to breathe easier.
Here are some benefits of using herbs.
1. They help you reduce the urges for nicotine, helping you overcome the agitation at the same time. 2. They help with depression, restless and anxiety. 3. They can help you burn fat and prevent weight gain. 4. They help you cleanse your liver and kidney, discarding the toxins.
Herbs should not be used alone as a method to quit smoking. You will probably need to combine with a longer term plan if you would to break free from the addiction forever.
Besides looking at how you can overcome challenges physicallyFind Article, you also need to look into how to over your mental challenges of quitting. Combined with using herbs is almost a winning formula to quit forever.
#44. Quit Smoking Laser
ou will have heard about lasers and the new work which is being performed with them. You may not realize but these lasers are also being used to treat people with a smoking habit. The quit smoking laser treatment is at this point in time considered as being non toxic to your body due to the low radiation which is emitted. Feature Articles
There are as we all know many different ways of quitting smoking. The most well known ways like cigarette patches takes some time for your cravings for nicotine to stop. There is no guarantee however that your cigarette habit will be broken. Another way that can be tried out is laser treatment. Unlike your average laser treatment when you want to quit smoking laser treatment which is safe is used.
The best way to understand what sort of benefits you can get from laser therapy for quitting smoking. The first step is to research the various treatments which are available for quitting your smoking habit. You can ask your doctor where you can get soft laser treatment.
Now once you know some facts on how to quit smoking laser treatment centers will help you to get the relief you need. You should read the various facts and documents that are given from this center. If you like what you have read and you are still determined to get rid of your smoking habit then make an appointment.
While the actual time period for the soft laser therapy takes about 15 minutes. You should however leave aside 1 or 2 hours for the full treatment period. Before the treatment to quit smoking laser therapy start there will be a consultation period. Once the treatment is finished you will then be given an instruction period which will help you to cope with changing your lifestyle for a smoke free life.
One of the best after effects which can be found when you quit smoking laser treatment wise is that you will have lost the desire and cravings which come with cigarettes. You should still make an effort to make sure that you are controlling the physical reactions which your body has gone used to while you were smoking.
These numerous facts will help you to make a decision about getting laser treatment for your smoking habit today. For this reason you should look for reputed and licensed medical facility where you can begin to quit smoking laser treatment style.
#45. Quit Smoking Using Subliminal Audio
How the power of subliminal audio can help people to quit smoking for good and also how you can use it everyday, not just a smoking cessation but subliminal messages can be used for other problems in life that maybe stopping you reaching your full potential.
Subliminal audio is a form of self hypnosis which many people are now using to help them break habits, especially where other forms of treatment haven't been successful. Although it is used commonly to help people lose weight, many people are now turning to subliminal messages to also help them quit smoking.
Generally people think of hypnosis as something that sends you into a trance like state, however this is not strictly so with subliminal audio. Generally these types of messages allow people to carry out everyday activities while they listen to the messages on their IPod or car stereo and are very useful when one doesn't have the time or the funds to go a hypnotherapist.
The way it works and the way it can help is by way of sending positive affirmations to the subconscious part of the brain that in actual fact makes up the majority, ninety percent. It will instill these messages deep into your subconscious and whilst you are not even aware of it, they can and do have a significant impact on the way a person thinks and feels.
The subliminal messages are actually hidden within the sounds and music that is played and although you cannot hear them, they are embedding into the deeper par of your conscious thought and will help you break habits that have been somewhat difficult to break in the past.
Many people who have used this method to give up smoking state that after a period of several days they start to feel the need not to smoke and although they can't explain why they feel this way after several years or even decades of being addicted to nicotine they suddenly become aware of the fact that they do not actually need or want to smoke. Although it is not considered a quick fix and people do not automatically become non smokers over night, it is a very effective method of breaking the smoking cycle, which is now becoming more popular. Due the fact that it is very inexpensive compared to other products designed to help you give up smoking. Like nicotine replacement products for example.
It is also a very simple method and with the availability of online downloads subliminal audio can be accessed quickly and cheaply. Although many people use this method alongside other treatments like nicotine replacementComputer Technology Articles, this is actually not necessary as many people who have used subliminal messages as a form of treatment have been successful using them alone. Once you have your downloads you can start straight and if you feel after a few days that you would also benefit from an additional form of treatment then you can do so then but you should find it effective on its own.
#46. 15 Exciting and Crazy Things To Do After You Quit Smoking
Are you a smoker? Lets say you live in (Illinois) who spends at least $ 9.67 for a pack every day or $1,160.04 a year? That is a lot of money, so let us look at different ways of utilizing your cigarettemoney once you quit smoking.
For the single pack smoker you could:
1. Go to the movies with your friend once a week, every week.
2. Buy pizza 122 times a year.
3. Take a Hawaiian or Alaska Cruise once a year.
4. At $3.00 a gallon, buy 409 gallons of gas which equals filling your cars 13 gallon gas tank over 30 times a year. It is like driving your car for free six months out of the year. Even if gas prices were to double, you will still be driving for free three months out of the year.
5. Eating at the Red Lobster restaurant once a week or going to a Chinese buffet to eat three times a week.
6. You can buy 1277 Super Lotto tickets and possibly win millions of dollars!
7. Shock your neighbors by renting a luxury limousine for 4 hours once a month all year around.
8. Take private lessons weekly to learn the second language or take dancing lessons
9. Stay in the Regent Beverly Wilshire hotel, the glamorous hotel in the movie "Pretty Woman" at one of the worlds most famous intersections Rodeo Drive and Wilshire Boulevard, for three to four days every year.
10. Eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner at Mc Donald over 100 times a year.
11. Get a three year subscription to a gym of your choice to work off all that Mc Donalds.
12. Buy 25 ladys dresses or 51 mens dress shirts.
13. You could buy 315 pairs of pantyhose or 426 pairs of men's socks every year. (It probably is not a good idea if you live in the Caribbean.)
14. Drink over 300 cups of Starbucks chocolate mocha lattes.That sure will give you a buzz!
15. Buy 61, 350 tongue depressors to see how pretty your white teeth look.
Okay now you have something to push for, your wish list is ready. Just choose what you would like to do and finally quit smoking!
#47. Smoking and Erectile Dysfunction
It is a known fact that smoking is injurious to health. The temporary pleasure of smoking can cripple sexual life by causing erectile dysfunction .This makes smokers life miserable. Hence to enjoy pleasure of joyful living, quit smoking. Medical research has consistently shown that smoking is most likely a major cause of Erectile Dysfunction (ED). Erectile Dysfunction is also colloquially referred to as impotence (a term of much wider import encompassing multifarious dysfunctions of the male reproductive system). Men who smoke over 20 cigarettes a day have a 60% higher risk of Erectile Dysfunction as compared to men who do not smoke. The Erectile Dysfunction becomes much more severe if the smokers also suffer from diabetes. Most people start smoking in their teenage and end up with a strong nicotine dependency that persists even in adulthood. Further, they are often unaware that smoking can cause Erectile Dysfunction in the later years of life.
How does smoking affect sexual function and performance?
When a person smokes he inhales large amounts of carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide deprives the voluntary muscles as well as vital organs such as brain, heart etc of oxygen. When these vital organs do not receive sufficient oxygen, they immediately lose their ability function efficiently and optimally. Principally, the heart has to work much harder to deliver oxygenated blood to all parts of the body. Naturally, this leads takes a toll on the supply of blood to the male genital organ as well. As full erection needs effective and optimum supply of blood, any inadequacy in blood supply leads to Erectile Dysfunction.
Nicotine in cigarettes, although regarded by smokers as a stimulant, only worsens the harmful effects of carbon monoxide by increasing heart rate and elevated blood pressure. There is a strong link between high blood pressure and Erectile Dysfunction ().
Scientists have found that smoking leads to fat deposition in blood vessels. This reduces the inner circumference of blood vessels. Even elasticity of blood vessels diminishes as a result of sustained smoking. Thus arteries fail to supply adequate amount of blood to organs of body and male reproductive system is no exception to this inadequacy. This paves way for Erectile Dysfunction.
Additionally, the so-called Low- Tar cigarettes are more harmful than their regular counterparts due to physiological and psychological reasons. Low-Tar cigarette smokers inhale more smoke and carcinogenic agents (caner causing agents) than regular cigarette smokers. Further, they are psychologically pre-disposed to smoking more cigarettes believing them to be less harmful that the regular ones. Thus Low- Tar cigarettes cause more harm to body.
Although erectile dysfunction is not a life threatening conditionBusiness Management Articles, it certainly spoils the quality of life and can be a cause for much emotional and psychological turmoil. Thus it goes without saying that it is of paramount importance to stop smoking and embrace a healthy lifestyle to lead a quality sexual life.
#48. Information on the antidepressant drug Wellbutrin
Wellbutrin, sometimes known as Bupropion, is an antidepressant drug used to treat major depressive disorder and seasonal affective disorder. While the drug was initially developed to serve the purpose of an antidepressant, later research and subsequent use indicated that the drug was effective in helping people to quit smoking and even limited the withdrawal effects of smoking. Weillbutrin is one of the most popular antidepressant drugs in the United States, and one of the major reasons for its popularity is because it does not have side effects such as sexual dysfunction and obesity, two of the most common side effects of antidepressants.
The Side Effects
While it is true that Wellburtin does score over some of the other antidepressants in the fact that it does not cause sexual dysfunction or weight gain, it must be understood that the drug is not without its own set of adverse effects. Many of these are common with other antidepressants while a few may be unique to Wellburtin only. In the following section of this page we will discuss some of the side effects of Wellburtin. However, although the list is quite comprehensive, it is not complete. So there will be a few side effects of the drug that we cannot mention in the limited scope we have here.
There are some common side effects of Wellburtin that have been widely reported by a large section of patients who have been prescribed the medicine. These would include dry mouth, insomnia, excessive sweating, tremor, nausea and tinnitus. Some of these side effects might also result in the cessation of the treatment using the drug, with the most number of treatments being discontinued after patients complained of rashes and nausea.
One of the major controversies regarding Wellburtin has been its effects on seizures and there has been a continuing debate on whether the use of the drug increased the chance of seizures. In fact, it was mostly because of Wellburtins infamy for causing seizures that it was withdrawn from the market. But later studies have indicated two key things about Wellburtin. First, that the risk of seizures for taking Wellburtin was about the same as it is for taking other antidepressants. Secondly, the chance of a seizure induced by Wellburtin was largely dependent on the kind of dosage that has been prescribed. So if the dosage is limited to anything between 100mg and 300mg then the chance of seizure was limited to a low 0.1%, if the dosage fell within 300mg to 450 mg, the risk of seizure stood at 0.4%, but if the dosage was increased to 600mg the rate of seizures jumped up to 2%. So the dosage prescribed is very important when we consider the risks of Wellburtin-induced seizures.
Another cause for concern while using Wellburtin is its effects on patients with cardiac conditions. Again the effects are closely related to the kind of dosage administered. Patients with or without cardiac problems, when administered Wellburtin at a dosage of 400-500mg in a day, showed signs of rise in blood pressure. But there was no change in pulse rate. However, patients who were administered dosage below 300mg did not show any perceptible changes in the blood pressure.
But perhaps the most serious side effect of Wellburtin is its effect on children and adolescents. Studies have established that most antidepressants increase the rate suicidal tendencies among children and adolescents. Wellburtin is no different. So when the drug is prescribed to a child or an adolescent, the behavior of the individual must always be monitored so that such adverse effects do not manifest in the worst possible way. It must be emphasized that Wellburtin is not the only antidepressant that causes such a side effect.
#49. Effects of Smoking Did you Know that you CAN go Blind from Smoking?
Believe it or not one of the effects of smoking is damage to the eyes. When you smoke, all the chemicals in the cigarette, over 3,000, go directly into the bloodstream. These chemicals cause damage throughout the body including the eyes.
These chemicals cause inflammation of the conjunctiva (the thin membrane covering the eye), which results in blood shot and irritated eyes.
Smoking has been linked to many diseases of the eyes, such as aged-related macular degeneration. All the causes of macular degeneration are not completely understood, but smoking is believed to be the main preventable risk factor. Evidence shows that more than a quarter of all cases are linked to current or past exposure to smoking.
It has also been linked to glaucoma. Smoking causes shrinkage or constriction of blood vessels, which can cause rising inner eye pressure (inner ocular pressure), which leads to glaucoma and optic nerve damage.
This damage to the eyes occurs when cigarette smoke is inhaled. The chemicals get into the bloodstream and travels throughout the body causing damage to the macula, the most sensitive part of the retina at the back of the eye. Tiny blood vessels can burst through the macula, which leads to irreversible damage and the cells of the macula slowly die, ultimately leading to the loss of your vision.
Once this damage has occurred, there is no way to reverse it. So, avoid the chance of eye damage and all the other devastating effects of smoking by not smoking at all. Quit NOW!!
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Quit Smoking Magic - New!! The Best Way To Stop Smoking Program You'll Find: (very recommended) Go to: http://tinyurl.com/kcgc57c
Your health is important, make your business to quit smoking today!
Thank You, Terry Clark
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