In the UK the NHS produces an excellent booklet called Stop Smoking Start Living.
The booklet is packed with useful information and advice for those who are ready to stop smoking. The back cover lists telephone numbers and a website address for further advice. The website address is www.NHS.UK/SMOKEFREE
As all smokers know the first few days of giving up smoking are often the hardest part, because of the need to fight a physical addiction to nicotine. The booklet states, quite correctly, that nicotine replacement products can help overcome this addiction.
The nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) products help to manage the withdrawal symptoms. The nicotine from these products goes into the body in a different way, which makes it much less addictive. NRT does not contain tar, poison or carbon monoxide found in tobacco cigarettes, so it does not cause cancer.
The NHS booklet lists various NRT products which may help. These include gum, patches, inhalators, microtabs, lozengers and nasal sprays. What they do not is mention the electronic cigarette, because although many say it contains just the same ingredients as other NRTs, it has not been thoroughly scientifically tested and therefore cannot be recommended by official bodies, such as the NHS.
However, the e-cigarette seems to be gaining in popularity in spite of some reservations by official bodies. There are many people in the medical profession who think the e-cig a positive innovation in the fight against smoking. Many people claim to have been able to stop smoking with the aid of the electronic cigarette and therefore have also seen a improvement in health and well being.
As with most things to do with health it is always wise to talk to a doctor or pharmacists first. It is never easy to do something like stop smoking alone. Obtaining a copy of the NHS booklet would be a good start.
