How to Quit Smoking

Quitting smoking can be very challenging but with these tips you should be smoke-free in no time.

1. Exercise more often. The mood boost you get from working out will help aid you in your quest to quit. Studies show that those who started a workout regimen when trying to quit were more likely to reach their goal.

2. Dodge depression. Feeling depressed can cause a relapse when trying to quit smoking. If you are feeling blue ask your doctor about the prescription antidepressant Zyban, FDA approved to reduce cigarette cravings.

3. Sip some water. Water helps flush out residual nicotine from your system and staying hydrated helps ease the discomforts of quitting such as constipation, coughing and the urge to eat constantly.

4. Try a prescription. Chantix is a great medication to aid you in quitting smoking. It helps release the same feel-good chemical, dopamine, that kicks in when smoking and prevents nicotine from binding to nerve receptors making smoking less enjoyable.

5. Get help. Your chances of quitting increase by 50% if you have a support system. Contact Nicotine Anonymous at 800-642-0666 to find a group near you.

6. Work with your cycle. For women trying to quit can be more difficult during the second half of your menstrual cycle. Try setting a quit date near the first day of your cycle to make withdrawl symptoms easier.