Nicotine And You

Everyone knows the harmful effects of smoking. We've all been told since elementary school that smoking's bad for you and can and often times does lead to an eventual demise. However, even with that advice and knowledge stored in the back of our minds, we still constantly put ourselves at risk for senseless tragedy time and time again. If you're still one of those who refuse to get the hint, perhaps you need it spelled out for you. Don't worry; I'll hold your hand through the entire ordeal.

Nicotine Addiction

Sure, it may seem minute in comparison to some of the most wretched addictions out there; however, you're putting yourself in more harm than you would if you were to get completely wasted every night of the week. That's right; your habit can kill you faster than a frat boy beer pong championship. Nicotine is meant to stick to you like glue to your psyche and when it gets a hold, most times it won't let up. When you're addicted to nicotine, there are times when you can't get yourself through the day without at least a pack --a pack! That's 20 cigarettes. Some people are so susceptible to nicotine cravings that they can't' survive without it.

The Effects

Some of the most devastating effects of constant cigarette smoke inhalation are shocking and quite sensational. If you find yourself unable to shake the addiction, you face:

• severe lung trauma

• loss of lung function

• cell death (lack of oxygen reaching the cells)

• increased risks for cancer (because healthy cells are being replaced with toxic cells)

• skin necrosis (again, because of the lack of oxygen reaching skin cells)

• halitosis

• tooth decay (again, lack of oxygen strengthening the enamel)

• gum disease (gum cells dying because of lack of oxygen)

What You Can Do

You've got to understand that you're not powerless. If you want to stop there are natural and safe ways to ensure that you get yourself from underneath your powerful addiction to nicotine. You've got to be willing to put in some hard work and commitment to make sure that you walk away from the habit completely. Depending on the severity of your case, you're not going to be able to get yourself clean with commercial patches, gums, and sprays. You've got to target the problem where it begins --in the brain. Find those programs that target the parts of your mind most susceptible to addiction and cravings. Once sought out, replace said craving with something more productive --like chocolate or exercise-- and give yourself the chance you deserve. Fulfilling cravings releases endorphins which give you an immense sense of pleasurable calm. Replacing a nicotine craving with something active will help you quit smoking.