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The Last Word With Matt Cooper

How To Successfully Quit Smoking

January is a time when many people decide to introduce good habits into their lifestyle, such as giv...
TodayFM
TodayFM

5:14 PM - 9 Jan 2019



The Last Word With Matt Cooper

How To Successfully Quit Smoking

TodayFM
TodayFM

5:14 PM - 9 Jan 2019

Listen to this episode



January is a time when many people decide to introduce good habits into their lifestyle, such as giving up smoking.

But how difficult is it to maintain?

Dr. Ray Walley joined us to offer advice on how to successfully quit smoking.

He also discussed the latest swine flu outbreak and the best way to protect yourself against it.

Tips to stop smoking

1. Prepare to quit

Jot down your reasons for stopping (like making your home or car smoke-free home), and keep them close at hand. Weigh up the pros and cons.

2. Pick a date

Most people who successfully quit smoking do so by stopping altogether and not by gradually cutting down. Pick your day to stop smoking and stick to it.

3. Get support

Get moral support from family or friends. Sometimes it's helpful if a friend, family member or colleague quits with you. Talk to your GP for support, or call the HSE Quit Team on Freefone 1800 201 203.

4. Change your routine

Replace triggers with new activities that you don't link with smoking. For example, if you always had a cigarette with cups of coffee, switch to tea or fruit juice instead.

5. Increase physical activity

Regular exercise contributes to good health. It helps to manage weight and can also improve the body's ability to meet the demands and stresses of daily living.

6. Don't be worried about withdrawal symptoms

You may experience withdrawal symptoms once you stop smoking. These are very positive signs: they mean your body is recovering from the effects of tobacco. Common symptoms include coughing, irritability and fitful sleep. Don't worry, they are all perfectly normal and should disappear within a few weeks.

7. Deal with cravings

Tips for dealing with cravings – the 4 Ds

  • Delay at least three minutes and the urge will pass.
  • Drink a glass of water or fruit juice (sip slowly).
  • Distract yourself. Move away from the situation.
  • Take a deep breath. Breathe slowly and deeply. It will help you to relax.

8. Count the savings

Put away the amount of money you would normally spend on tobacco. Work out how much you spend on cigarettes per week, month and year. Then watch your savings grow.

9. Watch what you eat

If you're worried about gaining weight, be extra careful with your diet. Avoid snacking on chocolate bars and biscuits; try some fruit or sugar free gum or popcorn instead.

10. Take one day at a time

It may take a little while to get used to being without cigarettes. Remember, every day without a cigarette is good news for your health, your family and your pocket.

To catch the full chat press the play button on the image on the top of the screen


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