When you have made the decision to quit smoking, just do it!
Start by gradually reducing the number of cigarettes you smoke in a day. On the
day that you want to quit smoking, stop completely and free yourself from
tobacco addiction.
Immediate benefits once you stop smoking
After a few hours, the blood circulation will begin to be
free of nicotine. Within two days, there will be no more effects of nicotine on
your system.
After 6 hours, pulse and blood pressure will drop to normal
levels. This is really great for your heart.
After 24 hours, carbon monoxide would be cleared from your
body, enabling more oxygen to be absorbed by the cells. The lugs would also
function more effectively.
After 2 days, the taste buds get better. You will be able to
taste food and enjoy it better. Sense of odor also improves.
After a few weeks, the cilia within the respiratory tracts
which act to clear away dust and other
impurities, will return to normal
and function more effectively.
After 2 months, blood circulation to the whole body,
especially to the peripheries such as fingers and toes improves.
After 3 months, fertility for both man and woman improves.
After you have stopped smoking, you may experience some form
of withdrawal effects. These physical symptoms are a good sign that your body
is returning to normal. They will disappear after a period of 3 to 14 days.
Some of these symptoms may appear:
Coughs – the mechanism to clear the respiratory tract is
functioning.
Dizziness – the body is adapting to a higher level of oxygen
available
Headaches – blood pressure going down to a normal level
Digestive system – constipation, nausea or flatulence may
occur, but just for a few days.
Others – sleep disturbances, anxiety, concentration
difficulties. These symptoms are just transient and will disappear after a few
days.
Maintaining your new status as a non smoker
Now that you no longer smoke, maintaining that status is
just as important. Do not let the temptations drag you back.
Think positive
Besides physical, mental preparations are also needed. Focus
on the benefits that you enjoy as a non smoker. Remember the reasons that you
wanted to quit smoking in the first place.
Ditch the negative thoughts
The urge to smoke would stay on for a while. But do not give
in to these cravings. There are ways which you can follow to overcome the
cravings.
Reward yourself
Your successful effort to quit smoking deserves a big pat on
the back. It is indeed a proud achievement. Spend the money saved to reward
yourself, like buying something that you have always wanted or go on a
vacation.
Avoid weight gain
Some will experience weight gain after stopping smoking.
This is due to improvements in your senses, both taste and odor which makes
food taste better and you want to eat more. Watch the food that you eat and
avoid excessive portions. Regular exercises are effective to burn away the
excessive calories in your body. This will help you to maintain your weight and
stay in good shape.
