Many smokers have tried to quit smoking countless times and have failed. The act of quitting smoking is not easy because the ingredients in cigarettes can be very addictive. People who want to quit but cannot seem to do it on their own may find success with the help of acupuncture. The American Cancer Society explains that people who get acupuncture while trying to quit smoking experience fewer cravings for cigarettes and are more likely to quit smoking successfully.
Step 1
Find an acupuncturist. Look for one who is willing to do electroacupuncture and ear acupuncture and who has experience treating smokers. Electroacupuncture is a special technique in which the acupuncture needles are attached to devices that send small magnetic pulses to the area for treatment. The American Cancer Society states that electroacupuncture and ear acupuncture are particularly effective in reducing nicotine cravings.
Step 2
Ask for help. Enlist the help of a friend or family member to check in on you daily as your work on quitting smoking. Licensed acupuncturist Leah Martino explains on the website Acupuncture.com that continual support from those whom you consider trustworthy is crucial for successfully quitting smoking. They can help you to stay positive and work through situations that may be difficult. She recommends talking as often as possible with the support buddy to maintain accountability.
Step 3
Set up your treatment plan. Get acupuncture treatment at least twice a week for one month. Ask to be treated specifically at the points of the body that can help you quit smoking. The website Acupuncture.com explains that frequent acupuncture treatments for smokers can reduce cravings for cigarettes significantly, especially when acupuncture is done around the ears.
Step 4
Drink water. Leah Martino explains on Acupuncture.com that drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help to reduce nicotine cravings. She also recommends avoiding coffee, which can trigger nicotine cravings.
Step 5
Eat fresh vegetables. Snack on vegetables like carrots and celery to stabilize blood sugar levels and make it easier to quit.
Step 6
Stick to the program. Be persistent, even though setbacks will come up. It can take a good four to six months of persistent treatments and communication with a support buddy to fully quit smoking. Even though you may slip and have a cigarette during treatment doesn't mean you aren't able to give up cigarettes; with persistence, you will be able to quit smoking completely.
