Struggling With Cessation? How Diet and NRTs Can Make Quitting Smoking Easier
The World Health Organization reports that among smokers who are aware of the dangers of tobacco, most want to quit. In fact, one study found that smoking prevalence has declined globally by 27.2% for men since 1990, and by 37.9% for women. As you take the first steps toward a smoke-free life, it’s essential to understand that success often depends on multiple facets of your well-being.
In this article, we’ll examine how the combination of a thoughtful diet and strategic use of nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs) can be the dynamic duo that eases your transition into a smoke-free existence. By nourishing your body and addressing the nicotine cravings, you’ll find that quitting smoking becomes not just an achievable goal, but a path to a healthier, more vibrant life.
Nicotine replacement therapy
Some studies suggest that NRTs can increase the rate of quitting by 50% to 70%. NRTs work by replacing some of the nicotine you get from cigarettes without the harmful chemicals and combustion aspect.
Nicotine gum
According to this article, many smokers turn to nicotine gum for moments when they feel the urge to use a tobacco product or if they are in a situation that might ordinarily cause tobacco cravings. The goal is to gradually decrease the amount of nicotine gum pieces until they no longer require it. Nicorette is an example of a nicotine gum that’s sugar-free and comes in two strengths: 2mg for people who have smoked fewer than 25 cigarettes a day, and 4mg for those who have smoked 25 or more cigarettes a day. It's widely available
Nicotine pouches
Another popular form of NRT is tobacco-free nicotine pouches. They act similarly to nicotine gum, delivering nicotine to your system to alleviate cravings and withdrawal symptoms. But instead of being chewed, pouches are designed to be placed between the lip and gums and left there for 30 to 60 minutes per use. This website carries well- known nicotine pouch brands, including ZYN, VELO, Rogue, and On! which come in many flavors and strengths, so users can tailor them to their cessation efforts. Unlike traditional tobacco products, nicotine pouches won't stain your teeth, cause bad breath, produce smoke, or create a lingering odor that settles into your hair and clothes.
Diet
An underestimated aspect that can help the process of quitting is your diet. Smokers frequently report that sensory factors such as taste are important motivators to continue smoking. Conversely, factors that worsen the sensory experience of cigarettes, such as certain foods or flavors, can decrease smoking behavior.
This previous post notes that some foods have been shown to increase the desire to smoke, while others do the opposite. For instance, alcohol, caffeine, meat, and sugary or spicy foods enhance the taste of cigarettes and can cause you to relapse. On the other hand, milk and dairy products can give your mouth a bitter aftertaste if you try to sneak in a smoke. Below are a few more foods that can support your smoking cessation journey.
Black ginseng tea
Findings from a recent study revealed that black ginseng extract contains potent antioxidants that can suppress airway inflammation and decrease mucus hypersecretion specifically caused by cigarette smoke. The study concluded that black ginseng extract can be used as a supplement for smokers or those with risk factors for respiratory disorders. To incorporate black ginseng extract into your diet, you can drink it as a tea or add a powdered version of it to your food and drinks.
Fruits and vegetables
Researchers from the University of Buffalo found that smokers who consumed the most fruits and vegetables were three times more likely to be tobacco-free for at least 30 days than those consuming the lowest amount of fruits and vegetables. Interestingly, researchers also observed that smokers with higher fruit and vegetable intake smoked fewer cigarettes per day and scored lower on a nicotine dependence test.
In the pursuit of a smoke-free life, having a balanced diet and using NRTs can be invaluable allies. With the help of a healthy diet and NRTs, you’re not just making quitting smoking easier — you’re embracing a healthier, more fulfilling future. Remember, the journey may have its challenges, but the rewards of a smoke-free life are well worth the effort.
Visit the Leet Diet website for tailor-made meal plans, delicious Keto-friendly recipes, and more helpful tips for anyone looking to adopt a healthy lifestyle!
About me
And short story about LEET DIET
As a choreographer and aerial gymnast, I had always been interested in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Diets had been my hobby, but I never truly enjoyed them until I discovered the Keto diet. After reading numerous books about how our bodies work and the benefits of a high-fat, low-carb diet, I decided to give it a try. I never looked back. The Keto lifestyle quickly became my passion, and I began experimenting with new recipes and meal plans. That's when I decided to share my knowledge with the world and created Leet Diet, a website filled with delicious Keto-friendly recipes and helpful tips for anyone looking to adopt a healthy lifestyle.
