Tobacco smoke contains a deadly mix of more than 7,000 chemicals; hundreds are harmful, and about 70 can cause cancer. Smoking increases the risk for serious health problems, many diseases, and death. – Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Nicotine in any form is a highly addictive substance found in tobacco. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) found that more people are addicted to nicotine than any other drug, which may be as addictive as alcohol, cocaine, or heroin. Withdrawal symptoms, weight gain, and stress are the three main reasons people “light up” again and again.
Anyone can stop using nicotine given the proper advice and guidance. Nobody should be misinformed: abstaining from nicotine is difficult, and often requires several attempts. But it can be done. It is also entirely possible to detoxify nicotine naturally. Below are some simple steps how:
1. DRINK LOTS OF WATER
Without a doubt, purified water is the most effective way to drive out toxins from the body. Water consists of properties that seem to decrease cravings for nicotine; unlike alcohol, which often stimulates nicotine cravings.
Drinking at least a half-gallon of water daily is not only effective in flushing toxins, but it also provides the energy necessary to enable one to quit. A good idea is to always bring with you a large water bottle and keep it filled. You’ll naturally find yourself reaching for some H2O.
2. CHANGE YOUR DIET
A diet based largely in fruits and vegetables can help the body naturally rid itself of nicotine’s toxins mainly due to their high levels of antioxidants. Also, consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables can help shed off the few extra pounds gained after quitting.
Both broccoli and spinach are “superfoods” (nutrient-dense foods) high in folic acid, and vitamins C and B5. Nicotine use depletes these nutrients, yet consuming more of them can reduce nicotine cravings, and strengthen the immune system, helping with the detoxification process.
3. EXERCISE
You’re going to need some physical activity to help detox. Engage in any exercise for at least 30 minutes a day. Exercise allows the body to perspire which drains large amounts of toxins out of your body.
Also, physical activity aids in dealing with the stress and agitation that often accompanies someone trying to quit nicotine. Moreover, exercise serves as a great alternative when experiencing cravings.
Exercise also invokes the release of endorphins, and other feel-good chemicals in the brain. This effect often leads to being hooked to exercise – a much healthier alternative than nicotine.
4. KEEP YOUR MIND PREOCCUPIED
By choosing to not smoke – and by following this advice – your body naturally detoxes and heal itself from previous nicotine use. But the truth is that you’ll still experience cravings, and some of these episodes can be rather strong.
Keeping your mind preoccupied with work or play, and play is preferred, will help suppress some of the natural impulses to use tobacco.
When you find yourself craving, focus on the task at hand. Read something interesting on your phone, or challenge your brain with some fun activity. Distractions can serve as a wonderful tool to stop cravings, and during this time your body will continue to detox and your ability to resist becomes stronger.
5. PRACTICE MINDFULNESS AND MEDITATION
The practice of mindfulness is allowing thoughts and feelings to arise and to go, without becoming attached or identifying with them. Acknowledge the craving (thought and feeling), but don’t interact with it or overthink it. These feelings will eventually go away, and your body will keep detoxifying and will naturally heal.
Practice mindfulness and meditation for 15 to 20 minutes a day and enjoy the ability to further reduce your cravings and detox your body from nicotine.
You Are Loved.
See Also: Here Is What Happens To Your Body When You Quit Smoking!
