News

Nicotine has been said to be as addictive as heroin. Stopping smoking by going “cold turkey” does not work, or does not work for most people.

The American Lung Association, which stresses it is “never too late” to quit, offers advice about how to get ready to quit.

Their advice is to be prepared for anything you may experience before it happens.

Please note that the original story’s content has been reformatted into a list in hopes that a list will be more useful to those who are ready to get ready to quit.

Preparation pays.

Washington Post/HealthDay News

“If you plan to kick the smoking habit this New Year, the American Lung Association recommends you start with a solid smoking-cessation plan and be prepared for anything.

“Be aware that smokers have different experiences when they quit,” Dr. Norman Edelman, the American Lung Association’s chief medical officer, said in a news release. “Some people may feel tired or even easily excitable. Others may feel lightheaded, nervous or irritable, and experience headaches in addition to craving tobacco or sweets. It’s important to know that these feelings are normal, and may last for several weeks, but eventually they will pass.”

“His group offered these tips to those wanting to quit: (Ed. note: List reformatted to make these steps easier to remember.)

1. “Discuss over-the-counter and prescription medications to help you quit smoking with your  doctor or pharmacist.
2. “Pick a date to quit, preferably at a time when stress will not be at a peak, mark it on the    calendar and stick to it.
3. “Exercise daily. Exercise not only combats the weight gain that often comes with quitting smoking but it also helps to improve your mood and energy levels. Even just walking helps ease the stress of quitting.
4. “Maintain a balanced diet, drink lots of water.
5. “Get plenty of sleep.
6. “Seek help and support from family, friends and co-workers.
7. “Consider joining a stop-smoking program or support group.”

Source:  Washington Post/HealthDay News, January 1, 2009