How to Quit Smoking: Nicotine Gum

Nicotine gum is one of the most widely used choices to aid those trying to stop smoking. The gum can be used as a substitute when cravings for cigarettes strike. Gum may be suitable for those who just want the nicotine when they get a craving, instead of all day, like a patch provides.

A gum like Nicorette, a very popular nicotine gum, is used for 12 weeks. It works by allowing your body to absorb nicotine through your cheeks and gives your body the nicotine it craves. By slowly reducing the amount of gum you use each day over a long period of time you can effectively quit smoking. Like a nicotine patch, the strength of gum you choose is dependant on how many cigarettes you are accustomed to.

It is important to follow the directions of whichever gum you choose in order to effectively quit. One of the worst things to do, however, is to cheat the program. By allowing yourself even one cigarette you greatly diminish the effects of the gum and may need to start over at the beginning of the 12-week period.

Other tips to help quit:

1) Remove all ashtrays, cigarettes and lighters from your house. By eliminating the tools that allow you to smoke you can more effectively quit smoking.

2) Talk to people you trust about your decision. You may also consider going to a counselor that helps people quit. Since quitting smoking can be a very hard task, it is important to be able to talk about it with those you trust.

3) Talk with other people that are trying to quit smoking. Many communities have groups to aid in quitting.

4) Be prepared to try quitting more than once. Since most smokers that try to quit take several tries, it is important not to give up hope.

Rest assured that once you effectively eliminate your cravings with the help of a nicotine replacement therapy such as nicotine gum or patch, you will be on your way to a healthier and longer life.