Stop Smoking Tips
Whether you use a quit aid of some sort or go cold
turkey, you are going to feel a certain amount of withdrawal from
nicotine.
Some people have more trouble with the first week, and
others with the second, but the good news is that for most quitters, the
worst of physical withdrawal from nicotine is over within the first two
weeks of smoking cessation.
Physically, your
body will be reacting to the absence of not only nicotine, but all of
the other chemicals in cigarette smoke that you've been inhaling 20 or
more times a day for years. When the supply gets cut off, you can expect
to feel the effects of that. Flu-like symptoms are common.
The
amount of discomfort you'll experience depends in part on how well you
take care of yourself during this phase. Follow the tips below to help
you minimize the discomforts you'll feel as a result of physical and
mental withdrawal from nicotine.
Quit smoking tips for the first
two weeks.
1) Find some support-Having others who are
interested in your success is very important. Sign in as a guest to
browse and read posts from other quitters, or register to post messages
of your own. Add some support to your quit smoking program.
2) Eat a well-balanced diet-
Treats are fine, but be careful not to
go overboard with the wrong kinds of food right now. Your body is
working hard to expel toxins during the withdrawal process, and that
takes energy. Choose foods that will provide you with the high quality
fuel you need. Avoid the empty calories of junk food.
3) Take
multi-vitamins-
Smoking depletes our bodies of nutrients. Give
yourself a boost with the help of a multi-vitamin. This, combined with
good diet will help you minimize the fatigue that can often occur during
nicotine withdrawal.
4) Stock the fridge with healthy snacks-
Have
small bags of bite size fresh veggies within easy reach. Celery and
carrots sticks with low fat ranch dressing for dipping makes a good
snack. Fresh fruit, such as pineapple chunks, berries, melon or other
fruits in season will satisfy your sweet tooth if they're clean and
ready to eat when you're looking for a snack. Good freezer treats
include low fat fudgesicles and frozen grapes.
5) Get out for a
walk-
A short walk every day, as little as 15 minutes even, can
work wonders for you as you withdraw from nicotine. Walking reduces
edginess and improves circulation. It also releases endorphins, the
"feel good" hormone.
So, when the urge to smoke
strikes, head out for a walk around the block. You?ll come back
refreshed and relaxed.
6) Get more sleep-
Early cessation
is tiring. Your body is stressed and so is your mind. Allow more time to
sleep if you need it. Don?t worry, the weariness won't last. Your energy
will return soon.
7) Drink water-
Water helps you flush
residual toxins from smoking out of your body more quickly. It also
works well as a craving buster. Drink water before you snack and you
will eat less.
Water is an important part of your diet! Keep
yourself well-hydrated, and you'll feel better in general. That will in
turn help you manage withdrawal symptoms more easily.