Do you finally want to stop smoking? Then you should definitely read on. Alternatives and replacement products can help on the way to becoming a non-smoker.
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In recent years, awareness of the health risks of tobacco and smoking has increased significantly. It has been proven that smoking can lead to a variety of diseases such as cardiovascular disease, lung cancer and respiratory diseases.
More and more smokers would like to quit - and are looking for alternative products to cigarettes that make the path to a smoke-free life easier. We have put together a list of options for you.
Helpful products on Amazon
How many
cigarettes
are harmful?
A clear statement about this can be found on the website of the BARMER health insurance company. Basically the answer is: even one a day is one too many.
Three cigarettes a day are better than smoking the contents of a whole pack. Clear. But every cigarette harms the body, not just a whole pack. Tobacco smoke contains substances that can cause cancer. And there is no lower limit for this content. Even a single cigarette a day increases the risk of a heart attack or stroke.
BARMER health insurance
How long does
withdrawal
last
from smoking?
Anyone who stops smoking from one day to the next will initially have to struggle with withdrawal symptoms. However, these usually subside after five to seven days as soon as there is no more nicotine in the body. Psychological dependence lasts much longer. This varies from person to person and can even take years.
Why
should you
stop smoking
?
There are many reasons to quit smoking. These vary from person to person. Here are a few benefits of deciding to become a non-smoker:
Health:
The most important advantage is of course health. Smokers have an increased risk of cancer and often suffer from high blood pressure.
Psyche:
Instead of reducing stress, nicotine has exactly the opposite effect. The constant addiction to it causes the actual stress. If you stop smoking, the urge to “have a smoke” also stops.
Money:
An average smoker spends around 2,000 euros a year just on smoking. Money that you can save as a non-smoker and invest in your next vacation instead.
Effect on others:
Yellow teeth, discolored fingers and the smell of smoke are not very attractive to other people. As a non-smoker you won't have these problems (if you take good dental care).
What's the
easiest way
to
stop smoking
?
Becoming a non-smoker is a long process. It requires a lot of discipline and patience. During withdrawal, those affected are often in a bad mood and unfocused. These tips will make it easier for you to quit smoking:
Completely or not at all:
Quitting smoking gradually is usually not effective. The best way is to give up cigarettes completely from now on.
Looking for substitute satisfaction:
The feeling of loss caused by smoking can be somewhat compensated for with substitute satisfaction. Treat yourself to a good meal, a massage or even something sweet every now and then.
Distraction:
Whether going for a walk, cooking or working – avoid thinking about smoking and distract yourself.
Aids:
In this article you will find a number of aids to help you on your way to becoming a non-smoker.
The
best hacks
on the way to becoming
a non-smoker
If you want to quit smoking, various tools can help you get started. Nicotine replacement products such as patches and gum release nicotine in a controlled manner to reduce cigarette cravings. E-cigarettes help you reduce your nicotine consumption step by step. There are also technical devices such as the Pavlok bracelet, which triggers mild electrical shocks. Acupressure magnets can reduce cigarette cravings by pressing on specific points on the ear.
Alternative 1: The high-tech bracelet
The principle of the high-tech bracelet from Pavlok is very simple: reward and punishment. If the bracelet catches its owner engaging in forbidden behavior such as: For example, if you light a cigarette, it gives you a slight jolt of electricity. Comparable to the electric shock you sometimes get when opening a door handle. In this way, the brain should learn to give up the bad habit.
€167 on Amazon
Alternative 2: The mini magnet
Quite normal in Japan, but still relatively unknown here: acupressure for the urge to smoke. The original magnet application from “JISHAKU” promises quick stimulation against picking up a cigarette. The mini magnet is inconspicuously attached to the ear and instructions for use are included.
€12.99 on Amazon
Alternative 3: E-cigarette & tobacco heater
One option for smokers who do not want to (or cannot) quit smoking completely are alternatives that reduce harmful substances such as e-cigarettes and tobacco heaters such as IQOS. Both e-cigarettes and IQOS release nicotine without burning tobacco. This means that fewer harmful substances are produced compared to conventional cigarettes.
IQOS 3 DUO Kit – tobacco heater
In the IQOS, tobacco is heated instead of burned. There is no fire, no ash and no smell of cigarette smoke.
From €69 on Amazon
Alternative 4: Nicotine chewing gum & patches
Which of the two alternatives is suitable for you depends on your smoking habits. If you are an occasional smoker, chewing gum can help. Chew these throughout the day: a maximum of one per hour and a maximum of 16 per day. Anyone who smokes more than 20 cigarettes a day can use nicotine patches. These are applied to the skin every morning at 24 hour intervals. They prevent typical withdrawal symptoms such as sleep problems, restlessness or increased appetite.
Nicotinell 24-hour patch
Nicotinell alleviates typical withdrawal symptoms and, according to the manufacturer, can double the chance of becoming a non-smoker.
From €23.99 at Shop Apotheke
Nicotine chewing gum “Freshfruit”
This nicotine chewing gum is recommended for people who smoke up to 20 cigarettes per day.
105 pieces for €27.94 instead of €39.99
Alternative 5: Nicotine spray & lozenges
Nicorette nicotine spray in fruit & mint flavors. Relieves smoking cravings in just 30 seconds with two sprays in the mouth.
8% discount at Shop Pharmacy
Very simple: Whenever you feel the desire to light a cigarette, grab a lozenge to combat nicotine addiction (please read the package leaflet). The lozenges can be used alone or in combination with a nicotine patch.
33% discount at Shop Pharmacy
Is cold
nicotine withdrawal
dangerous
?
Quitting smoking immediately (“cold turkey”) is not dangerous, but it can be very difficult because of severe withdrawal symptoms such as irritability and insomnia. Support with medication and therapy can increase the chances of success. It is recommended to seek professional help to ease withdrawal and increase the chances of success.