Breaking free from an addictive habit is not as easy as it sounds; it requires commitment. Among the millions of smokers globally, thousands are desperate to quit, but after a few trials, they find themselves indulging in it, and it becomes a burden and an unattainable goal.
Smoking is an addictive habit; it controls the smoker, and once it senses a withdrawal step from a smoker, the cravings become irresistible. To quit smoking is to break free from slavery, and yes! It is 100% possible to break free from smoking. This article discloses the best easy smoking cessation methods to kiss the negative habit goodbye. Read till the end.
Dangers Of Smoking
Learning the dangers of smoking will reveal the essence of taking action and quitting for life. The dangers are stated below:
- Smoking causes cancer in the lungs, throat, mouth, esophagus, bladder, pancreas, and more.
- Smoking ruins the lungs and airways, leading to health issues such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), chronic bronchitis, and emphysema.
- Smoking increases the risk of heart disease by raising blood pressure and damaging blood vessels.
- Smoking increases the risk of stroke by causing blood clots and reducing blood flow to the brain.
- Smoking during pregnancy can lead to stillbirth, premature birth, and developmental issues in the baby.
- Smoking weakens bones and leads to a higher risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
- Smoking can cause tooth decay, gum disease, and tooth loss.
- Smoking contributes to vision problems like cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
- Smoking weakens the immune system, making the body vulnerable to infections like pneumonia and bronchitis.
- Smoking becomes highly addictive. Becoming a problem to quit.
- Second-hand smoking is detrimental to one’s health. It can lead to respiratory problems and increase the risk of heart disease and cancer.
After knowing the dangers, the good news is that it’s never too late to quit! Quitting smoking will help reduce the risks stated above and improve overall health and well-being.
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Are There Natural Ways To Quit Smoking?
The following are natural ways to put an end to smoking with ease:
- Applying mindfulness techniques will create awareness of smoking triggers and cravings.
- Regular meditation will reduce the stress that often leads to smoking.
- Herbal remedies such as lobelia, St. John’s Wort, or Valerian root will certainly reduce cravings and manage withdrawal symptoms.
- Acupuncture helps reduce cravings.
- Some essential oils, such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus, can be used in aromatherapy to help reduce cravings and manage stress.
- Hypnotherapy can be used to reduce the desire to smoke.
- Joining a support group can provide motivation and accountability.
- Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Eating foods like celery or carrot sticks can serve as a healthy replacement for cigarettes.
- When craving strikes, use stress balls, puzzles, or other activities to keep the mind occupied.
- Set clear and realistic goals for quitting smoking, and keep tracking your progress.
Why Are You Overly Addicted To Smoking?
A substance called nicotine used in the production of tobacco products triggers processes that contribute to cravings and urges that maintain addiction. Inhaled smoke delivers nicotine to the brain within 20 seconds, which makes it highly addictive.
Nicotine levels in the brain drop when a person stops using tobacco, thereby leading to intense cravings. Being addicted to smoking is a result of nicotine. To quit is not an easy decision, but it’s the best decision!
Best Cessation Methods To Completely Quit Smoking
Medication and behavioral counseling are the two main cessation methods for quitting smoking.
- Medication involves the use of drugs to reduce nicotine cravings. These drugs include Varenicline, Bupropion, Cytisine, Nortriptyline, and Clonidine.
- Behavioral counseling teaches the person how to cope and provides problem-solving techniques to use in order to succeed. It’s also an opportunity to provide social support and encouragement.
Behavioral counseling often involves:
- Individual face-to-face counseling: This involves meeting with a counselor to develop a quit plan. The quit plan may include medication in combination with support.
- Group face-to-face counseling: This involves meeting as a group to offer one another support and discuss ways to quit and completely stop the use of tobacco as instructed by a trained counselor.
- Telephone quitlines are made available: Counselors do give brief counseling while directing the caller to self-help materials and also referring them to community resources.
- Web-based program: This includes content on websites provided by trained counselors and downloadable self-help materials.
Conclusion
Taking the initiative to quit smoking is an applaudable decision. It will be advisable to seek support from friends and family.
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