It’s never too late to quit smoking and improve your overall health but giving up cigarettes is no easy task, especially for women.
When it comes to smoking cessation, ladies find the first day to be more difficult compared with men, and that can be a sign that they will be more likely to backslide later on, according to recent research published in the May 2022 issue of the journal Addictive Behaviors.
“Getting through the first day of quitting is really important,” says Aimee Richardson, a health coach and tobacco treatment specialist with Henry Ford Health. “Not only because that’s when you’ll experience the worst of the withdrawal symptoms, but also because getting through that first day will boost your confidence and resolve.”
Getting back on track means your skin and health will dramatically improve, you’ll spare your loved ones from secondhand smoke and save money in the long term.
Here are some recommended ways to increase your chances of successfully quitting smoking.
Giving up cigarettes for good
If you think that the overwhelming majority of adult smokers began smoking before age 18, being in your 50s might be a good time to stop for good.
Several studies have found evidence that when you smoke, you expose your body to a range of toxins, including formaldehyde, cyanide, and carbon monoxide. When toxic chemicals reach your lungs, they impact every organ in your body, including your skin. The internal damage that’s taking place is largely invisible. Changes to your skin are among the first, visible signs that smoking is causing you harm.
Of course, there is no best way to quit. Everyone has different patterns, habits, levels of addiction, and preferences. What works best for one person may have little impact on someone else. For this reason, there are several proven methods, not just one.
Being ready and wanting to quit is the most important step to beat your cravings.
Identify your triggers
Certain things can trigger nicotine cravings, so it’s best to identify these to work your way around them. Tobacco urges are likely to be strongest at parties or bars, or at times when you were feeling stressed or sipping coffee.
“Triggers can differ for each individual, so it’s best to come up with a plan that will work for you – recommend doctors at the Mayo Clinic-. <span …….
