Smoking cigarettes is a powerful addiction.  If you have tried to quit in the past, you know how difficult it can be.  Quitting the habit for good will have a positive effect on your health and well being for life.

Stopping smoking requires desire, determination and commitment. You can be successful when you know what to expect and create a game plan to combat the physical and psychological side effects.  Here are just a few tips to assist you:

• Design a personal game plan.  This may include quitting cold turkey, gradually decreasing the amount of nicotine over a period of time or speak to your physician regarding medications.
• Stay active.  By exercising regularly and moderately you will keep yourself distracted and occupied.  This will also boost your motivation to engage in a healthier non-smoking lifestyle.
• Drink a lot of liquids, especially water.  This will help flush the toxins from your body, minimize withdrawal symptoms and help the cravings pass sooner.  Try herbal teas or fruit juices.  Limit coffee, soft drinks, and alcohol, these may activate cravings associated with previous smoking habits.
• Keep snacks on hand as an oral substitute.  Carrots, celery sticks, gum, mints and sunflower seeds are good choices.
• Keep your mind busy.  When cravings hit, do something else immediately, such as talking to someone, listen to music, read a book, watch a funny movie or take slow deep breaths.
• Change your habits.  Eat breakfast in a different place, brush your teeth immediately after eating or take a different route to work.  Most importantly avoid places you associate with smoking.
• Remind yourself every day why you are quitting smoking and write down all the reasons.  Stay strong and don't compromise.
• Rely on friends, family and support groups for help.  Let others around you know that you are serious about quitting and that you require their support and assistance.