How to Reverse the Signs of Smoking

Smoking is a habit that is not impossible to quit. However, the nicotine found in tobacco is an addictive, poisonous chemical substance that makes stopping difficult. According to a 1990 Surgeon General's report, quitting smoking has instantaneous health benefits, such as decreasing your chance of developing various forms of cancer. No matter how old you are or the amount of time you've been smoking, you can reverse the signs of smoking.

Instructions

Methods

• 1

  Devise your quit plan. Put down on paper the date you plan on quitting. Writing it down shows your commitment to quitting smoking.

• 2

  Examine why you smoke. When you find yourself needing to smoke, consider why you are doing so. Keep a diary logging when you smoke and what you are thinking when you do so. Reviewing why you smoke can help you to conquer the temptations that lead you to light up.

• 3

  Make a plan to avoid smoking when you get the impulse to smoke. List alternatives to lighting up, such as finding a healthier activity. Remind yourself of these choices when you find yourself reaching for a cigarette.

• 4

  If you find yourself caving in to your craving, do not beat yourself up. Figure out why you stumbled and learn from it. Do not use it to fall back into your old smoking habit.

• 5

  If you find yourself having trouble because of an addiction to nicotine, seek help from your doctor or pharmacist.

• 6

  When you are able to refrain from smoking, enjoy the benefits. When you stop smoking, you will notice an improvement in your looks and health. You will see that your breath smells better, your teeth will not be as yellow, you will not be as fatigued, and your clothes will not smell like smoke. You will also detect that your food will taste better and your sense of smell will be back to normal.