Quit Smoking Aids

Nearly all smokers would prefer to quit. Why then, don’t they? Obviously, it isn’t easy or there wouldn’t be much to discuss. It takes real will power to quit smoking. And for most, it also requires continuous support.

 One reason commonly cited for not quitting is the fear of weight gain. It is said that after quitting, food tastes so much better that people will eat a lot more. The reality is that some people do gain weight after they quit. However, others don’t and some people actually lose weight after quitting. This is because the overall stress on the body from smoking causes food to be improperly digested, which causes reduced insulin levels, which in turn can cause weight gain. Without the smoking the reverse sometimes occurs. Smokers should ignore the weight gain issue when they contemplate quitting. It is largely an excuse not to quit. Instead, exercise regularly, drink lots of water and maintain the normal diet, except only keep low fat snacks around to deal with the occasional cravings.

 Obsession with weight control just takes away your focus from the main point, which is to quit smoking. You need to focus on quitting. It often helps to put your reasons in writing and then review your writings at least daily. Most smokers say they want to feel physically healthier with better overall athletic fitness and stamina. As good a point as this is, don’t overlook the entirely mental and emotional side. When you quit, you are taking back control of your life. It is an exercise that will build your self esteem. The actual ritual of lighting up, and moving the lit cigarette to the mouth, which is followed by the inhalation of the addictive poisons, is psychological addiction followed by the physical. You must address the psychological side as well as the physical to be successful in quitting. For help, look forward not just to how much better your body will feel, but also how much better you will feel about yourself when you regain control.

 The process of quitting must begin from within you. It cannot succeed if it is only a reaction to others nagging at you to stop, not matter how sincere their intentions are. It is not an easy process and you likely do need their support, but the core of the incentive must come from you. Why do you smoke and why do you want to quit? Understand this and then, just do it!