We do NOT want you to stop smoking cold turkey today. Wait a month. Why would two docs say this? Because you're much, much more likely to succeed if you do. In a month — Nov. 18, to be exact — is The Great American Smokeout, the day the American Cancer Society encourages the 46 million Americans still puffing to stop. So you'll have lots of support, which is a big help. But this is even more important: We know that you need a month of planning and baby steps to loosen cigarettes' grip. Here are five proven steps that will start you on your way to success. . . guess what, you've already done the first one!
1. Set a quit date. You did mark Nov. 18 on your calendar, didn't you?
2. Think of three reasons for quitting. Write them on a card, and carry it with you. Or rubber band the card around your cigarette pack so you have to undo it to get a cigarette.
3. Start walking 30 minutes a day. It will prove to you that you're disciplined enough to do this. Plus, walking helps curb cravings and keeps weight off.
4. Call your insurer. Does it cover quit-smoking drugs and programs?
5. See your doc. Discuss using nicotine replacements and/or an anti-craving drug, such as bupropion — we recommend both. Do this now; you want to start the anti-craving med just before Quit Day.
For lots more proven help, check out the YOU Docs Quit Smoking Center at RealAge.com.
© 2010 Michael Roizen, M.D. and Mehmet Oz, M.D.Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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