Life After Smoking: How to Stay Healthy

Quitting smoking can take an enormous physical and mental toll on someone’s body. Nevertheless, your body is always a worthy investment. The minute after you take your last drag of a cigarette, your body begins reversing the damage. It is always best to kick the habit while you are young.

Still, cigarette smokers who quit later in life will also make significant improvements to their health. Removing nicotine from your life will make you healthier on its own, but there are a few steps you can take to maximize the benefits and refrain from picking up another pack.

Be mindful of your body’s needs.

Nicotine is a stimulant. When you remove the flow of nicotine from your body, you will likely feel bogged down, tired, and generally uncomfortable. The side effects of quitting smoking will vary from person to person because everyone’s body is different. It is unlikely that you will be able to eliminate the symptoms of nicotine withdrawal entirely. However, it can make your life much easier.

Many of the symptoms associated with cigarette withdrawal are the same as those of dehydration, for instance, headaches, constipation, and lethargy. Simply staying hydrated can help lessen the discomfort you feel and facilitate the healthy function of your organs. It can be tough to get to the grocery store regularly, especially when restaurant delivery applications like Uber Eats and Postmates make ordering in so convenient.

Automate your water consumption by looking into water delivery companies. In the last couple of years, subscription delivery services have seen an unprecedented rise in popularity. Meal kits, produce, pet supplies, and water can be delivered straight to your doorstep so that you can save time and money driving to the grocery store a few times a week.

A water delivery service can remind you to drink water regularly and drink enough of it to avoid excessive leftovers when your next delivery date rolls around. Suppose you opt for the water cooler or dispenser option. In that case, you will also be helping to protect our environment by eliminating waste in the form of plastic bottles and gallons.

Remove unnecessary temptation.

Many people relapse within the first two weeks of quitting smoking. Sometimes, you can avoid this lapse by removing any unnecessary triggers, like smoke odors. The smell of cigarette smoke is repugnant for many people but unfortunately, not for those who have just quit smoking.

For a recent ex-smoker, the unpleasant odors that arise from burning a cigarette can be tantalizing temptations to light up. Consider a smoke eliminator if your car or home has the lingering odor of cigarette vapors or you live with someone who smokes. This type of product can eliminate odor molecules and refresh your space, ridding your environment of the distracting smell of cigarette smoke.

Seek mental health support.

It isn’t always easy to deal with addiction alone. The good news is that around 1.3 million people quit smoking every year. This statistic is encouraging, but there is a more significant takeaway than inspiration. There is a large demographic out there who is going through a similar situation to yours. This solidarity means you have easy access to support groups and other means of mental health care. Mental health care services like therapy have been made more accessible than ever due to the rise of telemedicine after COVID-19.

You may be able to receive support through text chats or video calls for optimal convenience.

Between fatigue, increased irritability, and headaches, the decision to quit smoking requires a certain amount of resolve. By taking care of your body and mind, you can give yourself the resilience you need to leave your habit behind for good. If you start to struggle, don’t hesitate to lean upon the support of others. Your health is worth it. The irritating side effects of quitting smoking are only temporary, but the benefits will last a lifetime.