Even after quitting smoking, nicotine remains in your body, particularly in your bloodstream, for 20 to 30 days. Removing any trace of this addictive substance can make the smoking cessation process less difficult and help you deal with the withdrawal symptoms.
So how do you remove nicotine from your body? Here are the steps to follow:
- Stop smoking now. And never smoke again. Otherwise, all your efforts to eliminate nicotine from your body are going to be useless. Don’t use nicotine patches when trying to quit smoking. These products do not get rid of nicotine from your body but only replace the source. There are quit smoking products that do not contain nicotine.
- Practice breathing techniques. This is the easiest and most practical way to cleanse your body from nicotine. Cigarette smoke affects your lungs, bringing in toxic compounds that stimulate cell damage. Bringing in fresh air to your lungs is the best way to start the detox process. You can download free videos online that demonstrate breathing exercises. You can also engage in aerobic exercises, such as walking.
- Drink fruit and vegetable juices. Choose fruits and vegetables that are high in antioxidant levels. If you don’t like their juice, just eat them as they are. Studies show that consuming nutritious foods help alleviate cigarette cravings.
- Consider undergoing antioxidant therapy. When your immune system is low, it can be difficult for your body to flush away the nicotine. Taking vitamin C is a great way to strengthen your immune system and speed up the removal of this addictive substance. Vitamin C also boosts your metabolism – a key factor to nicotine removal.
- Drink lots of water. This is another great strategy to eliminate nicotine from your system. Drink more water than you used to. Water naturally washes your body from nicotine and all other chemicals brought by cigarette smoking.
- Avoid coffee, alcohol, sugar and salty foods. All these can trigger you to smoke which in turn increases your nicotine levels. The moment you smoke again, you’re going back to the first step and this cycle goes on and on.
- Consider taking healing herbs that promote detoxification. There are many herbs that have the ability to cleanse the lungs from nicotine and other toxic substances from tobacco. Herbal medications to try are Mullein, valerian root, and catnip. Ginger, which is widely available, also helps cleanse toxins from the body through perspiration. Garlic and cayenne powder also has similar effects.
Be prepared to experience the undesirable effects of quitting smoking. During the first three to seven days, you may experience intense craving for nicotine. But don’t worry. It’s going to be temporary. Just make sure you don’t get carried away with nicotine craving. Be focused on your goal. Seek help if necessary. Take non-nicotine medications such as Chantix, get plenty of exercise, read books about smoking cessation, and join a support group. All these are going to help you quit smoking now and eliminate nicotine from your system.
