Quit Smoking: 10 Top Tips to Help You

Want to stop smoking and don't know where to start? Or have you tried before and want a different approach? Whatever your reason, here are 10 top tips for quitting:

• Think about the main reasons you want to stop smoking. Is it for your health, or your family? Or would you rather spend the money on something you want, like a new TV? Or are you feeling the pinch from the effects of the credit crunch and want to save money? Whatever it is, write it down in a notebook or diary, and every time you feel like you want a cigarette, remind yourself of why you're doing this.

• If you're struggling with just your willpower then you're not alone. Double your chances of quitting by using Nicotine Replacement Products such as Nicotine Patches, Lozenges or Gum.

• Try to find a friend or colleague who wants to stop smoking, and quit together at the same time. Whenever you want to smoke, give them a call or meet up for some encouragement - you can do the same for them, and together you can help each other kick the habit.

• Consult your GP, especially if you have any health problems. Your GP will be able to give you extra advice and help if you are really struggling.

• With the smoking ban in public places, you no longer need to avoid the pub like before. Be wary, however, of going outside to stand and chat with the smokers - make it clear from the beginning that you are determined to see this work and that you don't want to expose yourself to unnecessary temptation.

• If you're doing well overall but finding that you get an occasional craving that is almost too strong to bear, then try using Nicotine Lozenges to give you that short burst of nicotine to see you through.

• With the improved breathing you'll notice after a few weeks, giving up smoking is the perfect opportunity to get fit, so why not take up a sport or start exercising at the gym? It'll give you the extra motivation you need when the cravings are at their strongest, as well as bringing the obvious benefits of being fitter, stronger and slimmer.

• If you're having trouble sleeping, that's because your body is craving nicotine when you're in bed. Try using Nicontine Patches, which give 24 hour relief from the nicotine withdrawal symptoms as they continually release a slow, steady stream of nicotine into your body, even when you're asleep.

• Set a date and stick to it - pick a day in the next two weeks, leaving enough time to get some NRT supplies if you need them, and be absolutely determined that you will stop on that date.

• Try not to smoke ‘until this pack runs out' - just give up and throw away the cigarettes you have. If you savour your last cigarette, you'll keep thinking about it every time you have a craving.