Statistics show that a significant number of deaths are caused by use of tobacco and related products as well as exposure to second-hand smoke. Cigarette smoking poses serious health risks to smokers. If not addressed early, smoking can result in complications such as high blood pressure, lung cancer and various cardiac complications. While smokers are aware of these health risks, kicking the habit is quite challenging. Nicotine, a substance that is contained in cigarettes is highly addictive and is responsible for the difficulty in quitting smoking. there are however a number of effective ways that one can stop their smoking habits. All it takes is the decision to quit smoking and a commitment to that decision.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy
An effective way of stopping smoking is adopting a nicotine replacement therapy. There are various options that include over-the-counter nicotine lozenges, patches and gum, prescription nicotine such as those in inhalers and nasal sprays as well as prescription non-nicotine medications like bupropion and varenicline. Nicotine craving makes it difficult for smokers to totally quit. These cravings can be sated with short-acting nicotine substitutes such as nasal sprays, inhalers and lozenges. There is also the option for electronic cigarettes, a trend that is currently gaining popularity as a safer and healthier alternative to smoking. it provides an ideal way to reduce your nicotine dependence and can be an efficient strategy for quitting smoking. Click here to understand some vape juices.
Stay Away from Triggers
When a smoker who is trying to quit finds themselves in a situation where they are either exposed to second hand smoke or have access to cigarettes, they are likely to fall back into the vice. Before completely losing your nicotine dependence therefore, it is crucial that you try your best to stay away from possible triggers. Bars and parties are examples of places where you are likely to be tempted to puff a smoke. It is therefore wise to avoid finding yourself in such situations. Also, when you are stressed, you should sip coffee rather than smoking. While the effects of coffee may not be similar to those of cigarettes, they do work magic in suppressing the craving.
Exercise More
You need to come up with an activity that takes your mind off smoking. if as a smoker you smoked in the evening after work, find an alternative source of excitement. Exercising is a great way to forget your craving for a smoke. You can join a gym with a strict no-smoking policy. Being physically active will keep your mind occupied with other things other than smoking. you will also leave the gym exhausted and have a good night sleep where you hardly think of smoking.
Delay your Cravings
Constantly give yourself excuses to avoid smoking. When you feel like you have to smoke, delay for some minutes until something comes up and distracts you from it. It is however important to note that spontaneously dropping smoking might be harmful for your health. It is therefore important to gradually reduce your consumption until a time that you can totally drop it.
