3 Ways To Help Kick A Smoking Habit

By The DivaGals | March 1, 2022 | Fitness

Smoking is a terrible habit that can have serious repercussions on an individual’s health. Recent statistics show that nearly 40 million adults in the US are still smoking cigarettes. Annually, half a million people die because of it or secondhand exposure. Another 16 million people live with illnesses that stem from smoking like cancer, heart disease, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

While it is difficult to kick the habit, it isn’t impossible to do. If you want to be able to leave your smoking addiction behind you, here are some of the things you can do:

Use exercise to curb cravings

One of the biggest reasons people have a hard time quitting smoking is because they have become accustomed to the taste of tobacco. The problem is that this habit can cause bad breath, tooth discoloration, and even the increased build-up of plaque. Tobacco’s adverse effects on oral health can cause serious long-term repercussions so it is important to try and curb the cravings for it when possible.

Exercise is a great way to do so because it can serve as a distraction to keep your mind and body busy until the craving passes. You can try different workouts like swimming, running, or walking. If you want to be able to exercise at home, you can also try using things like the ScoopFit Lateral training apparatus, which can be used while sitting down so it’s great for when you get hit with a craving but are working or watching TV.

Opt for a smoke-free alternative

Another thing you can do to kick a smoking habit is by using nicotine alternatives. While there are many on the market right now, one growing in popularity is the nicotine pouch. These are tobacco-free materials that you put under your lip to get a dose of the chemical.

Prilla explains how nicotine pouch users find these devices convenient and discreet because they don’t produce smoke or any odor that can be distracting. They also come in a variety of flavors such as mint, coffee, and even cinnamon, which is something other alternatives do not do. For those who want something closer to the real experience of smoking, there are also tobacco-flavored products. This alternative is a great way to get nicotine in your system without sacrificing the health of your lungs or jeopardizing the health of those around you.

Try to chew more gum

The last thing you can do to stop smoking is to chew gum. This is popular among past smokers, proving that it is an effective way to do so. The reason behind this is that some people smoke because they have an oral fixation. Healthline defines this as a need to feel something in your mouth brought on by an unresolved issue in terms of Freud’s psychosexual development.

In adulthood, smoking is one of the most common ways oral fixation manifests itself. It can also present as nail-biting, overeating, or alcohol abuse. If you believe that oral fixation has a role in your addiction, then chewing gum will help you find a healthier outlet. Whenever you feel the urge to smoke, just pop a few pieces of this confection in your mouth to help distract your brain from looking for a cigarette.

Kicking a smoking habit can be difficult, especially if you decide to quit cold turkey instead of gradually removing it from your lifestyle. If you are hit with cravings, exercise, nicotine alternatives, and gum can make a big difference. Just remember that smoking can lead to numerous health diseases so it is important to lessen your exposure to cigarettes as soon as possible.