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Time to Quit 09-Sep-2005 To what degree a public smoking ban will take place in England is uncertain at the moment, yet more restaurants and bars are choosing to ban smoking from their establishments without a government order. Most smokers are becoming aware that they will need to stop smoking at some point in their life and short term health benefits are not the only factor involved. Cigarettes are becoming increasingly frowned upon socially and, as we live longer, the quality of life of older smokers diminishes and puts strain on the health system. Besides all this it is still worth remembering that smoking is linked to a third of all cancer deaths and 17% of deaths from heart disease [both a.s.h.]. It is always a good time to quit yet it is never easy. Smoking is a powerful addiction, mentally and physically, and withdrawal symptoms can prevent people staying off for long. Some people are able to give up without help yet for most a little help can make all the difference. The Hard Stuff Nicotine is a highly addictive drug that travels almost directly to the brain. Lowering your body’s dependence on nicotine can be done gradually with the use of nicotine patches and/or gums. These are particularly useful for heavy smokers as a sudden drop in nicotine levels can cause anxiety, depression and irritability. Brands such as Nicotinell, Nicorette and Niquitin offer a graduating system of nicotine levels through adhesive patches placed on the skin or gums which can be chewed. The Nicorette inhalator works as a replacement for the habitual activity of smoking. Many smokers find the absence of the action of smoking disconcerting. The Nicorette inhalator is used like a cigarette and releases a small quantity of nicotine to satisfy the craving. It is smoke free so can be used at any time in any situation. Quitting and Health When giving up smoking your body and mind will go through some uncomfortable side effects that can be lessened by the use of supplements and vitamins. Start by increasing your intake of B Vitamins and Vitamin C as both of these are depleted in smokers. Vitamin B promotes healthy nerves, reducing your levels of anxiety and irritability. Vitamin C works as an antioxidant to mop up the unstable oxygen molecules (free radicals) caused by smoking that damage cells; the action of Vitamin C can be supported by Vitamin E. Oat extract has been used in India for opium addiction for centuries. Studies have shown that it can also reduce the craving for cigarettes. Other aids include chewing liquorice root and dandelion route when cravings become strong. The important thing is to keep off for as long as possible. A study has shown that people who give up for longer than 3 months are less likely to re-start than within that time. For more help and advice visit givingupsmoking.co.uk.

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