If you want to quit smoking, you may make tiny lifestyle modifications that will help you resist the urge to light up. Tobacco cravings or desires to smoke may be strong for most tobacco users. You, on the other hand, are not at the mercy of your desires.
When you have a strong want to use tobacco, remember that, no matter how strong the desire is, it will pass in five to ten minutes whether you smoke a cigarette or chew a piece of chewing tobacco. You’re one step closer to quitting tobacco usage for good each time you overcome a cigarette need. When you have a tobacco need, here are tips to stop smoking and to fight the impulse to smoke. Get more health related suggestions from our expert resources.
Consider the good.
One of the first tips to stop smoking is, you may have tried and failed to stop smoking in the past, but don’t let that discourage you. Consider what you’ve learned from your previous experiences and how you’ll do things differently this time.
Make a plan to help you stop smoking.
Make a promise, set a deadline, then stick to it. It may be good to follow the “not a drag” criteria. “I won’t even take a single drag,” remind yourself when you’re having problems and stick to it until the cravings pass. Consider potentially problematic scenarios (such as a party) and plan your actions and escape routes ahead of time.
Keep in mind your dietary habits.
Do you have a favorite cigarette to smoke after dinner? Some meals, such as meat, make smoking more enjoyable, according to a study done in the United States. Smokes are made to taste bad by cheese, fruit, and vegetables, among other things.
Try a vegetarian pizza instead of your usual steak or burger. It’s also a good idea to change up your routine before or after meals. It could help if you get up straight away and clear the dishes, or if you sit down somewhere where you don’t smoke.
Alter your beverage
Drinks were also examined in the above-mentioned US research. Cigarettes taste better with fizzy drinks, wine, cola, tea, and coffee.
So, while you’re out and about, drink plenty of water and juice. Some individuals find that merely altering their drink (for example, from wine to vodka and tomato juice) reduces their desire to smoke.
Recognize when you have a strong desire for smokes.
A yearning might last as little as 5 minutes. Make a list of 5-minute tactics before you quit up. You could, for example, leave the party for a while to dance or walk to the bar.
Consider this: smoking and drinking together increase your risk of mouth cancer by 38 times.
Obtain assistance in quitting smoking.
If you have friends or family members who want to quit, offer that you do it together. Your local quit smoking service may also be able to assist you. Did you know that with their professional guidance and advice, you’re up to four times more likely to stop successfully?
You may also contact the NHS Smokefree hotline at 0300 123 1044, which is available Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Get your feet moving.
Exercise, even a 5-minute walk or stretch, has been shown to reduce cravings and may help your brain release anti-craving hormones, according to a review of scientific research.
Make non-smoking acquaintances.
When you’re at a party, surround yourself with nonsmokers. “When you look at smokers, you don’t envy them,” Louise, 52, an ex-smoker, adds. “Consider what they’re doing weird — lighting a little white tube and inhaling smoke.”
Make use of your hands and lips.
Nicotine replacement treatment (NRT) has been shown to increase your chances of quitting smoking. There are also pills, lozenges, gum, and a nasal spray available in addition to patches.
There are also portable goods such as inhalators or e-cigarettes if you like to hold a cigarette. To keep your mouth occupied while out, place your drink in the hand that typically carries a cigarette, or sip through a straw.
Make a list of reasons why you want to stop.
Continue to remind yourself why you choose to quit up. Make a note of the reasons and refer to them if you want assistance.
Chris, a 28-year-old ex-smoker, says: “When I went out, I used to have a photo of my young daughter with me. I’d have a look at it if I were inclined.” These are the tips to stop smoking.
