10 Tips to help with quitting smoking

People who smoke are 15 to 30 times more likely to develop lung cancer or die from lung cancer than people who do not smoke. If you are a smoker make a commitment to quitting smoking today. Try these tips to help break the habit.

Quit for a reason

Personal motivations in deciding to quit cigarettes will be the single most important factor in becoming a non-smoker.

Whatever your personal reasons, writing a list of the reasons you want to stop and referring to it every time you feel the urge to have a cigarette, is a great way to temper your craving.

Speak to your doctor

Your doctor will be able to advise on the various smoking cessation medications and therapies available to you.

Your doctor may also be able to advise on local support groups and smoking cessation clinics.

Bin the paraphernalia

Get rid of ashtrays, lighters and any cigarettes you still have lying around. You don't want any reminders. Don't be tempted to keep some cigarettes 'just in case', it will only make giving in to temptation that bit easier.

Ask your friends and family for help

Let your friends and family know you are quitting and seek their support. You will find that they can be a great source of encouragement when you feel tempted to smoke.

Consider asking a family member or work colleague who also smokes to try giving up along with you. You can support each other.

Fill the void

Smoking is as much a habit as an addiction. Be prepared for how you will fill the void or occupy yourself at those times of the day when you would normally smoke.

Many people smoke to unwind. Think about how you will relax once you quit, taking up daily exercise is a great way to relax and make you feel positive about the new healthier you.

Don't get hung up on weight gain

Many smokers are reluctant to try and quit as they fear gaining weight as a result. Although some people may gain a few pounds in the effort to quit smoking, the resultant health benefits of being a non-smoker far outweigh the additional pounds.

Avoid the triggers

Many people don't succeed in giving up because they don't take steps to avoid their smoking triggers during the initial stages of quitting. Be aware of triggers and avoid them.

Eat lots of Fruit and Veg

Your appetite may increase while you are in the process of quitting cigarettes, keep healthy snacks to hand and drink plenty of water.

Keep trying

People who eventually stop smoking have often made three or four previous attempts, before becoming a non-smoker. So, if you aren't successful this time, keep trying. Stay positive and learn from your previous attempt.

Reward yourself

Smoking is an expensive habit, as you quit, keep track of how much money you haven’t spent and think about how you would like to spend it.

Ready to Quit Smoking?

As an Allianz customer, you can access the Quit Now app at 50% off, helping you take positive steps towards a smoke-free future at your own pace. Find it in the Health Assistant or Wellness Hub on MyHealth.

Your international health insurance cover

Lung cancer, unfortunately, remains one of the deadliest forms of cancer, even if detected early.

As 85% of lung cancer cases can be avoided by stopping to smoke, the way to protect ourselves is a no brainer. Stop smoking.

A healthy lifestyle including healthy eating, regular exercise and spending time outdoors in the fresh air, helps protect against all sorts of cancer and a multitude of other diseases.

At Allianz Partners our core plans cover in-patient, day-care and out-patient oncology treatment. Cutting edge treatment options are at your disposal.

Dr Ulrike Sucher, Medical Director, Allianz Partners.