Why you should be a quitter!

Originally Posted on http://blog.floridablue.com

It’s okay to be a quitter when you’re quitting a bad habit like smoking. In fact, if you’re a smoker, quitting smoking is the single most important step you can make toward a longer, healthier life. Unlike some healthy lifestyle changes that take time to make a difference (such as eating better or working out), quitting smoking has immediate health benefits.

For example, in:

• 20 minutes your blood pressure and your heart rate to normal levels

• 24 hours the carbon monoxide level in your blood to normal

• 2 weeks your risk of heart attack begins to decrease and your lung function will greatly improve

• The long term your overall risk for heart disease, stroke and cancer decreases

Here are 5 Tips on how to quit smoking:

1.            Set a “quit smoking” date. Mark the date on a calendar and focus your attention on your first step toward a healthier lifestyle.

2.            Identify (and avoid) your smoking triggers. Examples include enjoying your morning cup of coffee or seeing an ashtray. Opt for tea instead and remove smoking reminders.

3.            Have healthy snacks on hand to curb cravings. Stock up on sugar-free gum or hard candy for when you crave a cigarette (especially in the beginning).

4.            Get moving. Physical activity can help ward off nicotine cravings and also help reduce stress.

5.            Look for support. Tell your friends and family you’re quitting so they can support your decision. You can also join a support group in your area (check out Cancer.org or LungUSA.org for groups near you).

Before your quit date, you may want to talk to your doctor about nicotine replacement therapy (gum, lozenges, inhalers and prescription medications), which helps many people successfully quit smoking.

It’s never too late to stop smoking. If you need support or more information, the American Lung Association is a great resource. Call 1-800-LUNGUSA or visit
 LungUSA.org.