Quitting smoking can seem like an impossible undertaking, but it doesn’t have to be this way. If you team your will power with our helpful, foolproof tips you will be on the right path.

Why are cigarettes and tobacco products so addictive?

Nicotine is the addictive substance in tobacco which makes quitting difficult to do. Thanks to the design of cigarettes, the nicotine hit very quickly goes to your brain. This triggers the release of chemicals that give you a momentary ‘high’. With frequent use, nicotine stimulates parts of your brain repeatedly, and your brain gets used to having nicotine around.

After this has happened, it might seem like you need nicotine just to feel normal.

Upon smoking cessation, it’s no surprise that feelings of irritability and anxiety are common. It is a form of withdrawal and all these feelings are a result of it.

The good news is this withdrawal process improves over a few weeks after quitting as your brain gets used to a lack of the nicotine substance.

It’s important to note that certain smoking cessation medications contain nicotine. This approach offers a way to adjust to the reduced nicotine levels in your brain after quitting smoking. The nicotine-containing alternatives are said to be safer than cigarettes themselves as they are thought to be less carcinogenic.

Incorporate a fresh routine:

Following smoking cessation, it may be challenging to engage in your usual routines without a cigarette in hand. For many individuals, smoking is associated with daily activities such as taking breaks, drinking coffee, finishing meals, chatting with friends, or using the phone. These associations are commonly known as triggers.

In addition to external triggers, emotions can also prompt the urge to smoke. As a result, when you quit smoking, certain emotions can trigger a desire to smoke.

Making changes to your lifestyle can significantly impact your ability to quit smoking. Consider implementing the following measures:

• Eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to support overall health.
• Avoid consuming sugar and caffeine, as they can increase blood acidity and exacerbate withdrawal symptoms.
• Practice deep breathing or meditation techniques to reduce stress and promote relaxation.
• Engage in regular exercise to alleviate stress and enhance relaxation.
• Identify and avoid environmental triggers that may induce cravings, such as drinking alcohol, arguing with your partner, or attending social events.
• Ensure that you drink an adequate amount of water daily, as research suggests that dehydration can disrupt brain chemicals like cortisol, which can impact mood and stress levels.
• Aim to get a sufficient amount of sleep each night to support overall health and well-being.

As you embark on your journey to quit smoking, you’ll discover a personalised approach to managing your routines without cigarettes, and coping with feelings of stress or sadness without resorting to smoking.

Fortunately, millions of ex-smokers have reported improved well-being after being smoke-free for a period of time.

Monefi offer financial services specialising in Income Protection, if you’d like to learn more speak to one of our advisors today.