There is little doubt that smoking cigarettes has a detrimental effect on your health. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says as many as 5 million people die a year from smoking-related illnesses. For many, cigarette smoking is not just a bad habit, but an addiction to nicotine. There is no scientific proof that taking supplements or eating certain foods will help break the addiction. But managing your nutrients and diet can help you maintain good health and stay strong while you go through the process of quitting.
Step 1
Eat five small meals a day. Smoking cessation can increase your urge to snack. Breaking up your meals will keep you full and reduce snacking.
Step 2
Keep low-calorie snack foods on hand. Focus on raw vegetables and other types of crunchy foods. This will give you something to focus on, other than a cigarette, when you are bored and need to do something with your hands.
Step 3
Monitor your calorie intake to avoid weight gain. If you start to gain weight, you may revert to smoking to lose the extra pounds. Weight gain is common when you are trying to quit smoking. Managing your diet will eliminate an excuse to smoke.
Step 4
Steep one-fourth to one-half teaspoon of dried lobelia in 8 ounces of hot water to make tea. Lobelia is an herb that may help reduce your cravings, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. Drink 2 ounces of the tea four times a day.
Tips and Warnings
- Exercise will help you keep the weight off and provide a distraction. Smoking is as much a habit as it is an addiction.
- Do not take lobelia if you have high blood pressure, are pregnant, breast-feeding or if you are being treated for any chronic illness.
