In times of today, many people often seek comfort in smoking and in comfort foods like chocolates and ice cream. But when you start, you have to learn to control your consumption and curb all cravings.

Remember, a craving only last for a couple of minutes, when it comes to food, keep in mind that one minute on the lips is forever on the hips. So here are a few way to help you stop your cravings.

• Step 1: Substitute smoking with other activities. Chew on sugarless gum or pick up a fruit. If you need the physical feel of a cigarette, then keep your hands busy with a pen. Try doodling, writing, drawing or working on a crossword puzzle. If that doesn't work, pick up knitting or carpentry.
• Step 2: Drink less caffeine. It has been proven that nicotine withdrawal will make you feel jittery and nervous and caffeine would only make this worse. So scratch of sodas and coffee from your grocers list.
• Step 3: Get sufficient sleep. When you are overworked or tired, you naturally tend to crave a relaxer like nicotine or food.
• Step 4: Reduce tension. When you're stressed, try talking a walk, a warm bath, listen to some music or spend some time with friends. Don't turn to cigarettes for comfort.
• Step 5: Get support and encouragement. The best way to quit smoking would be to do it with a mutual friend. If you don't have anyone who is trying to quit as well, join public societies like Nicotine Anonymous or campaigns organized by health departments.
• Step 6: Nicotine Replacement. If you have severe withdrawal symptoms and are concern about weight gain, talk to your doctor and find out about nicotine replacement products. There were a few effective ones available by prescription only, but due to the increase rates of smokers today, they are readily available over the counter at pharmacies. Using nicotine gum or a nicotine patch, along with improved eating habits and physical activity, will help you reduce your risk of a smoking relapse.
• Step 7: Stay away from temptations. Try to stay away from your favorite smoking spots and eatery places so that you won't get tempted to eat or smoke unnecessarily.

As you start to quit, keep telling yourself that this is for the better and that you're making the right decision, don't allow yourself to fall into peer pressure or temptations. Also, include simple changes to your diet and exercise plan. A healthy change in your lifestyle would help a great deal.

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