Most people never realize when an occasional
indulgence gradually transforms into a dependence trap. Addiction to tobacco
in any form is caused by its active ingredient nicotine, a chemical substance
that alters your mood and temporarily stimulates your mind by inducing a sudden
surge in the levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine.
Quitting tobacco can pose a problem by itself because of withdrawal
symptoms like irritability, anxiety, restlessness, difficult concentration,
mood swings, frustration, anger, sleeplessness, constipation, or diarrhea.
All the pleasantries come to a halt once dreadful illnesses like heart disease,
stroke, and cancer threaten to bring your life to a full stop. Nicotine is
known to cause insulin resistance so as to set the stage for the development
of type 2 diabetes. It can also cut your family tree short by producing infertility.
You could have been a victim of peer pressure, or may have casually
picked up the habit, having watched your parents smoke as you grew up. Your
own genes could have influenced your dependence to a great extent too. Irrespective
of how you took to it, the outcome is going to be the same under all conditions – a
perfect health disaster.
Get your body used to nutritious food instead of nicotine. You have
used nicotine to suppress your feelings, even hunger. Recovery is all about
learning to take care of yourself in an affirmative manner. Pay attention
to your emotional needs and listen to your heart. Nothing in life is more
important than your life. A balanced diet and a constructive routine can
keep you away from vices and addictions.
Drink plenty of water to help flush the toxins out of your system.
Citrus fruits and juices are good for smokers and those who have recently
quit smoking because smoking depletes the level of vitamin C in the body.
Opt for a healthy snack, such as munching a carrot or an apple. Go for a
walk or pursue a hobby that will keep you busy. Eat regular meals and don't
forget to include liberal amounts of fruits and vegetables in them.
Once you stop smoking, the biochemical changes in your body make
you crave for tobacco all the more. Never try to combat one addiction by
getting into another, even if this substitute is less harmful. Remember that
it is less harmful but harmful all the same. Regular physical activity helps
people to fight the potential weight gain that happens following smoking
cessation.
Talk to a supportive person or loved one if you are feeling anxious
or depressed and need encouragement to get through a difficult craving. Nicotine
patches, gums or saunf can serve as helpful cessation aids. Avoid high-risk
situations. Know your triggers, and stay away from people, places, and situations
that tempt you to smoke. Never forget that only one person can help you to
get rid of your addiction – You!