It is difficult, but not impossible, to break the tobacco habit. Will-power alone is not enough for most individuals who are addicted to this poison, therefore every advantage must be utilized. Of course the first step is a firm desire to stop its use,
but once this action is taken then other aids can help to overcome the craving.
The need to disassociate with tobacco users is often a real but short-lived necessity for once the habit has been controlled, then the former addict will be able to meet this fading temptation without falling to it. The use of water and unfermented juices is a boon in flushing out an irritated nervous system. Those who have broken the habit report that drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day is a must.
Under no circumstances can tea, coffee or alcoholic beverages be substituted for water or fruit juices. Food also plays a very important role. While endeavoring to break the habit, a diet made up mainly of fruit and protein from legumes and wheat should be followed leaving out fried and greasy foods. A non-meat diet is preferable as meat, tea, coffee and spicy foods are irritant that will excite the nervous system and cause it to cry out for nicotine to soothe the frayed nerve ends.
Physical exercise along with a regular deep breathing exercise, during waking hours is important in other for the blood to flow and oxygen to get to those parts of the body which have not received this commodity in needed amounts. Rest, too, is imperative as every little irritation in life will be multiplied for the first few days and a well rested body will be able to cope better with stresses. Those who have been successful in breaking away from the clutches of tobacco, should be doubly careful. In their social life they should be on guard against entreaties of "friends" to try a cigarette "just this once for my sake". If they should yield to such pressure, it will no be easy for them to try quitting the second time.
