If you are trying to quit, you may have noticed there are several quit smoking methods available.
Many studies show that several of them are effective and can be tried together.
This article will present some of them, from the most common methods to some alternative treatments.
If you’re considering quitting, read on to find more information and decide which method best suits your reality and goals.
Quit smoking cold turkey
Quit smoking cold turkey is the most common method, which makes it the one with the most dropouts.
The cold turkey method consists of simply stopping smoking without the aid of medication or nicotine replacement. It can be pretty effective for many people. Still, it can also represent a challenge for those who smoke for a more extended period.
Stop smoking with gradual withdrawal
Many people choose gradual withdrawal as a way to prevent or alleviate the symptoms of quitting. As the name suggests, this approach is about decreasing the number of cigarettes smoked daily.
So you don’t stop smoking suddenly. Instead, you cut part of the cigarette breaks during the day and reduce them little by little every day.
In general, people set a date to quit smoking for good. Until that deadline, the level of nicotine in your body will decrease. However, the benefits also come more slowly.
This means that your health should not improve significantly during this period in contrast to what would happen if you had chosen other quit-smoking methods like cold turkey.
Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT)
NRT is used as a way to reduce withdrawal symptoms as well as the urge to smoke. You can find them in supermarkets and pharmacies and purchase them without needing a prescription.
Among the formats available on the market are patches, lozenges or tablets, chewing gum, oral sprays, and inhalers.
If used correctly, NRTs can be an effective option for those who want to quit smoking. However, we must point out that this method will still get nicotine in your bloodstream.
The difference between these products and smoking is that you are free from the harmful chemicals in tobacco smoke.
Electronic cigarettes
Electronic cigarettes, also known as e-cigarettes, and similar devices do not have enough research and studies to be appropriately regulated.
But due to its increasing popularity, many people opt for these devices on their journey to stop smoking.
It is essential to point out that e-cigarettes are also harmful to health. When smoking this type of cigarette, you are still in contact with nicotine, so you suffer the associated risks.
Some people go as far as to smoke e-cigarettes simultaneously as using regular ones. So-called “dual use” can cause significant health risks. Therefore, it is recommended to stop using any product that contains tobacco completely.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture is also one of the quit smoking methods. Despite studies that analyze the effects of its use for this purpose not being conclusive, it has been used to deal with an array of addictions.
For example, in a study published in 2006, it was found that out of 13 studies that used acupuncture to stop smoking, 10 were effective.
Hypnosis
Hypnosis also has been used to stop smoking. This method focuses on changing subconscious attitudes and beliefs that may prevent someone from quitting smoking.
It usually can include meditation, relaxation techniques, and even counseling. In addition, there are different kinds of hypnosis, which can be practiced individually or in a group section.
You can always ask for help
Stop smoking can pose challenges to your physical and mental health. But always remember that the immediate and long-term benefits are enormous.
Check with your doctor to see how you can improve your health by quitting this harmful habit. You can also count on support groups, counselors, and your social support network to help to go through this significant process.
Do you still have questions about the quit-smoking methods mentioned? Then, let us know in the comments so we can help you out!
