Feel like lighting up? Quick, get moving!

You are trying to quit smoking but all of a sudden you get the urge to light up? What should you do? Get moving! A new study has concluded that physical exercise can help control withdrawal symptoms and resist the urge to smoke!

It has long been known that anything that can distract a smoker can help him or her resist the urge to smoke, but it seems that exercise has a much more potent effect than previously thought. In fact, exercise can increase concentrations of dopamine in the brain. Dopamine is a chemical neurotransmitter found in the brain and implicated in all type of addictions. Walking briskly for as little as five minutes can be enough to quell the urge to smoke. Physical activity also reduces the intensity of withdrawal symptoms like stress, anxiety and poor concentration.

You want to quit smoking? Taking advantage of all the tools available to you will increase your chances of being successful. You can look into the different support programs offered by local organisations and speak with your physician and pharmacist. These two health professionals can go through the various options with you to help you choose wisely. Using nicotine patches, nicotine gum or prescribed medications can double your chances of quitting for good.

Why not replace your cigarette breaks by walking breaks? If you must remain at your desk and you get the sudden urge to smoke, try doing a few muscular exercises. On top of preventing weight gain often associated with giving up cigarettes, these short bouts of physical activity will help you control your cravings.

Hang in there and look or ask for support whenever you need it. You can only do yourself a world of good by stopping for good! Butt-out and stay strong!