Quitting smoking cold turkey is no easy task. While there are a few ways to go about it, quitting cold turkey can be a bit daunting yet rewarding- if done right. Quitting smoking this way is not for everyone, but given its impact on the body, getting over it and stopping straight up may sound like the best solution for some. Today’s post will look at the process of quitting cold turkey and new alternatives worth trying.

Quitting Is a Mindset

To quit smoking cold turkey, you need to be as upfront as you can with yourself—that is, the many rationalizations and considerations that may hinder your goal (just one more cigarette, or I’ll start tomorrow). One easy way to help you fight those thoughts is to start jotting down the most important reasons why you’re quitting. Write them down in the Notes’ app on your phone so that you can quickly access them when these thoughts kick in.

How to Quit Nicotine – Getting Through Nicotine Withdrawal

Quitting cold turkey is challenging because nicotine withdrawal symptoms may be more stringent when you stop supplying your body with it abruptly. Nicotine is exceptionally addictive. Like other drugs, you will experience some undesired side effects as your body struggles to subdue the craving for nicotine and rid itself of the toxic chemicals. Some unwanted side effects include:

• Headaches
• Cough
• Depression
• Anxiety
• Fatigue
• Constipation
• Dizziness
• Sore throat
• Inability to concentrate
• Feeling hungrier than usual
• Dry mouth
• Nausea
• Insomnia
• Diarrhea

   

Anticipate these symptoms as much as possible, and do what you can to hold on when they hit. Get in the habit of keeping a water bottle with you everywhere you go so that you’re always hydrated. Additionally, we recommend you stock up on throat lozenges. Pack your fridge with healthy snacks that you can quickly reach for when your stomach is feeling funny.

Luckily, nicotine withdrawal is but a temporary phase in the process. If you fight your way through it, the subsequent symptoms will recede with time, and better days will follow.

Temptation Is the Enemy

To avoid temptation altogether, throw away all smoking accessories (lighters, ashtrays, matches, etc.) from your home and your office. Next, consider distancing yourself from smoking friends (physically, not socially) or whatever situation might be a trigger for you.

Be Open to Support

Nicotine withdrawal may induce some psychological urges. These can be handled if you plan for them and learn what triggers them. Seeking support from family and friends is a healthy way to go about it. This doesn’t have to be a solo journey. Let them help support and motivate you when you fail to do it for yourself.

If you’re attempting quitting cold turkey on your own, an online support forum can be a great way to help you see it through. Furthermore, in-person support groups can also help, as you get to meet people in your area who may be going through the same thing.

Create New Habits

Breaking away from unhealthy habits is one thing. Filling that space by creating new ones is another. Take a pragmatic look at your smoking habits and patterns, and then come up with some healthy distractions and pastimes to help you stay the course, such as:

• Start waking up early and go for daily walks.
• Try other kinds of coffee (cold brews, frappés).
• Try natural CBD products (CBD oils, CBD gummies, candies, CBD smokables).
• Start cooking healthy.
• Keep your hands and mind busy.

Pros and Cons of Quitting Cold Turkey

Quitting cold turkey, like other methods, has its advantages and downsides.

Pros

• Quitting cold turkey may increase the chances of your abstinence from nicotine lasting.
• Withdrawal manifestations usually peak within the first seven days, getting you over the most challenging hill faster than gradually cutting back on nicotine.

Cons

• Your withdrawal symptoms may be more severe than with progressive cutbacks. However, these are short-lived.
• It’s challenging and requires unyielding determination and self-control, especially if you’re a long-time smoker.

Try a CBD Routine

There’s no single way to quit smoking that works for everyone. Some people have what it takes to deal with extreme withdrawal symptoms associated with the method. Others may prefer to stop gradually and deal with more controlled symptoms for a more extended period. If quitting cold turkey isn’t for you, there are other, safer ways to go about it, such as CBD.

CBD products have erupted in popularity in the last few years. People are turning to the natural, organic, non-habit forming compound to help them stop smoking. These products promote an unmatched sense of relaxation – one that can be quite helpful when dealing with intense periods of withdrawals.

Quitting cold turkey may be intimidating, but with some thoughtful preparation, motivation, and willpower, you can get through it. There is no denying, quitting smoking is the best thing you can do for your health and those around you.