As you become increasingly aware that diabetes comes hand in hand with some other serious health complications, it is important to realise that smoking simply adds to this. In order to reduce your risk of cardiovascular diseases amongst other health issues, quitting smoking is imperative to getting yourself back to optimal health.
 
Listen this week as Amy Monarch and Teresa Leberknight of The Monarch and Dr T share their tips and tricks on how to successfully quit smoking, and reduce your risk of other health complications.
 
Learn to take your body out of its comfort zone. Changing old habits and incorporating new ones will help you stop craving the action of smoking, whilst kicking the nicotine addiction.
 
Quit for Good
 
Smoking hits you on different levels, both mentally and physically. The habits can be tremendously difficult to break. But equipping yourself with the right tools will help you succeed.
 
Diabetics are at an increased risk of many other health complications and smoking just adds to the pot. Smoking actually doubles the risk of a heart attack, and can cause complications with any medication you may already be taking.
 
Changing your social habits and getting through those times of day when the cravings are highest are the biggest part of the battle.
 
Nicotine Replacement Therapy
 
NRT comes in the form of gum, patches or prescription drugs. Taking any form of nicotine replacement means you should most definitely not be smoking. Overdosing on nicotine is a real possibility and can end in an unexpected trip to the ER.
 
These aids play an important role in quitting smoking, but keep in mind that willpower is an invaluable tool. Mental cravings only last 5 minutes so try and let them pass. Do this by finding an alternative to take your mind off the cravings.
 
Try having a cold glass of water when you feel a craving come on, as keeping yourself adequately hydrated through the NRT process is essential.
 
Listen this week as Amy and Teresa answer questions such as:
•         How do I quit smoking?
•         Why is it so important for diabetics to quit?
•         Should I go cold turkey?
•         What is nicotine replacement therapy?
•         But I always smoke on my break, what do I do instead?
•         Will I gain weight?
 
Quitting smoking is a process and one that can be incredibly successful if you are well motivated. Just relax and find ways to change your processes and habits. Throw the pattern off by rearranging furniture at home, or simply changing your route to work.
 
Most people find they are more successful with community support. So share your stories, trials and tribulations with the Monarch and Dr T community. How have you changed your habits? What words of advice to you have for others struggling to quit?
 
Start the conversation on Facebook or the community page of the website and help each other reach their goals. Alternatively, leave any comments or questions below; we would love to hear from you!
 
Read more about Monarch and Dr. T online at:
Website: www.themonarchanddrt.com
 
Facebook: Facebook.com/themonarchanddrt