Anyone who has ever picked a cigarette will tell you how they wish they never had. Yet, the craving always overpowers the will to quit, trapping smokers in a perpetual cycle. That doesn’t mean there’s no end, though. It takes time, but sooner or later, everyone can quit and lead a tobacco-free life. The benefits are there for all to see: non-smokers are at a lower risk than smokers of developing chronic conditions like cancer.
So if you’re planning on doing the right thing and keeping out the smoke from your system, here are a few strategies and products that will help you in this mission.
Strategies to quit smoking
Follow these tried-and-tested strategies to quit smoking.
- Write your reasons for quitting
Emotions are essential when planning to quit. By writing down the reasons for quitting, you constantly remind yourself of what you love more than a cigarette. It could be your family, their health, your health, and money.
- Make a plan, and stick to it
Setting aside a date for quitting can prove useful. Many people have had success with it, so it makes sense to give it a try. A plan also reinforces the inner desire to quit and lead a healthy life. It boosts willpower and keeps you motivated on the journey.
- Involve your friends and family
Quitting is more than a one-person job. So you shouldn’t go all alone as you might end up getting discouraged and eventually lose motivation. Hence, tell your close friends and family members that you’re preparing to quit. Ask for their support at crucial times. This will keep you focused and determined.
Products to help quit smoking
Now that you know some strategies to quit smoking, take a look at a few highly-recommended products that can help you put down the cigarette pack for good.
- Nicotine patch
If your craving for nicotine is getting out of hand, try using a nicotine patch. It is a small patch that you apply over a hairless area of the skin once a day. It contains a small dose of nicotine, which is steadily released in the body to satisfy the craving. You can find a nicotine patch at any local drugstore.
- Nicotine gum
Nicotine gums work almost the same way as nicotine patches. The only difference is that instead of an adhesive patch, nicotine gums come in the form of edible gums. You have to chew it until it tastes peppery. This is when the nicotine from it is released into the body. Beginners can use as many as 24 pieces of nicotine gum a day.
- Nicotine lozenges
These come in the form of chewable tablets that dissolve slowly in your mouth. They contain nicotine, which slowly enters your bloodstream and satisfies the craving. Withdrawal symptoms can also be cured with these tablets. They’re available at most drugstores without a prescription.
