Good afternoon saregamapa and thank you for your question.
Being around friends who smoke, I see first hand the damage that
smoking can do. I have also had family members die from lung cancer
(smokers and non-smokers.) I commend you in your attempt to stop
smoking.
However, please understand that while cigarette smoke is worse than
nicotine alone, nicotine is not a harmless drug. Nicotine is a poison,
and the human body is much better off without it. Additionally, if
you remain dependant on nicotine, regardless of the form it comes in,
you run an increased risk of a smoking relapse.
"The Journal of the American College of Cardiology has reported that
nicotine harms the linings of our arteries which leads to the build-up
of plaque, thereby increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Additionally, nicotine suppresses insulin output creating a
hypoglycemic condition."
Source: About.com
( http://quitsmoking.about.com/od/nrts/f/nicotinegum.htm )
With that said, please fine below some information on nutrition and
supplements that I think you might find helpful.
"According to the New York Academy of Sciences, a variety of
nutritional agents appear to reduce or inhibit the cancer-causing
properties of cigarette smoke. These include antioxidant vitamins as
well as other chemicals found in certain foods."
Source: What Smokers Need to Do About Diet
( http://www.pdrhealth.com/content/nutrition_health/chapters/fgnt30.shtml )
It is recommended that smokers look for supplements that contain
Vitamin A, Vitamins C, E, and B-complex (especially B12),
Beta-carotene, Folic acid and folates, Zinc, and Selenium.
Vitamin A ? "Although vitamin A is probably best known for promoting
and maintaining healthy eyesight, it has other important functions as
well. One of its major contributions is to improve the body's
resistance to infection. It does this in part by maintaining the
health of the skin, mucous membranes, and other surface linings
(intestinal tract, urinary tract, respiratory tract) so that harmful
bacteria and viruses can't get into your body.
Another way that vitamin A boosts immunity is by enhancing the
infection-fighting actions of the white blood cells called
lymphocytes. Vitamin A is also vital to the growth of bones, the
division of cells in your body, and to human reproduction."
For more information, please visit the Whole Health MD website at:
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10066,00.html )
* * * * *
Vitamins C ? "The health benefits of vitamin C are abundant and
varied, but it's probably best known as a cell protector, immunity
booster, and powerful antioxidant. The body's ligaments, tendons, and
collagen (a protein found in connective tissues) rely on the presence
of vitamin C to stay strong and healthy. Like all antioxidants,
vitamin C counters the effects of cell-damaging molecules called free
radicals. As an added benefit, it even helps the body recycle other
antioxidants. For certain conditions, vitamin C is best taken with
other antioxidants, such as vitamin E, flavonoids, and carotendoids."
For more information, please visit the Whole Health MD website at:
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,904,00.html )
* * * * *
Vitamin E ? "...vitamin E appears to play a modest but notable role in
protecting the body from many chronic disorders. It may even slow the
aging process and guard against damage from secondhand smoke and other
pollutants."
For more information, please visit the Whole Health MD website at:
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,906,00.html )
* * * * *
Vitamin B-complex can help aid in ADHD, alcoholism, Alzheimer's
disease, anxiety and panic, canker sores, chronic pain, Crohn's
disease, depression, diabetes, epilepsy, fatigue, hair problems,
heart disease, infertility, multiple Sclerosis, nail problems,
psoriasis, Rosacea, stress, and tobacco dependence (1 b-50 pill
twice a day with food. Each pill should supply 50 mcg vitamin b12 and
biotin, 400 mcg folic acid, and 50 mg all other b vitamins)
* * * * *
Vitamin B12 ? "...help in the formation of healthy red blood cells
(which protect against anemia)?it is also involved in the maintenance
of the myelin sheath, the fatty substance that covers nerves and
enables them to function properly? Vitamin B12 is also of potential
value in treating the effects of aging and Alzheimer's disease, as
well as depression, the skin disorder known as rosacea, tinnitus
(ringing in the ears), and various neurologic problems. It may also
help to prevent heart disease and boost the immune system."
For more information, please visit the Whole Health MD website at:
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10067,00.html )
* * * * *
Beta-carotene ? "As a potent immune-system booster and a powerful
antioxidant--it counters the effects of cell-damaging molecules called
free-radicals--beta-carotene has an important role to play in human
health.
Consuming plenty of fruits and vegetables is an excellent way to
supply your body with beta-carotene. In addition, beta-carotene is now
sold in supplement form.
Scientists have long hoped that supplements could provide concentrated
sources of beta-carotene and thus provide increased protection against
heart disease and even against certain cancers. Recent findings,
however, indicate that single, high-dose beta-carotene supplements may
actually do more harm than good--possibly increasing (rather than
decreasing) the number of cell-damaging free-radicals in the body.
Until more information is available, it's probably wise to get
beta-carotene in supplement form only as part of a mixed complex,
along with other health-promoting carotenoids. Look for products that
combine beta-carotene with other carotenes such as alpha-carotene,
lycopene, lutein, zeaxanthin, and cryptoxanthin."
For more information, please visit the Whole Health MD website at:
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10103,00.html )
* * * * *
Folic acid ? "Folic acid is involved in every bodily function that
requires cell division. It is used to generate red blood cells, help
wounds heal, build muscle, and produce brain and nervous-system
chemicals. It should always be taken in combination with vitamin B12,
because taking only one of these B vitamins can mask a deficiency in
the other. Folic acid is often included in vitamin B-complex
supplements."
For more information, please visit the Whole Health MD website at:
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,887,00.html )
* * * * *
Zinc - Every cell in the body needs this nutrient and hundreds of body
processes rely on it, from the immune system and the enzymes that
produce DNA to the senses of taste and smell.
"Zinc is believed to promote a strong immune system by, among other
things, revitalizing the thymus gland and its production of white
blood cells. In addition, autoimmune diseases (chronic ailments linked
to the improper functioning of the immune system, such as lupus,
rheumatoid arthritis, or fibromyalgia) may also benefit from zinc
supplementation?By boosting the immune system, zinc may also protect
against fungal infections and various infectious disorders, such as
conjunctivitis and pneumonia. It also has anti-inflammatory
properties."
For more information, please visit the Whole Health MD website at:
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10071,00.html )
* * * * *
Selenium ? "Selenium has many tasks to perform in the body. It helps
to boost the immune system and fight off infection, providing a
general increase in the body's defense against dangerous bacteria,
viruses, and cancer cells. On a basic cellular level, every cell in
the body needs a particular hormone from the thyroid gland that
selenium helps to convert to an active form.
Perhaps the most famed use of selenium in supplement form is as an
antioxidant; it helps to mop up dangerous molecules known as free
radicals that can damage and alter healthy cells. It has also been
recommended for staving off the effects of aging."
For more information, please visit the Whole Health MD website at:
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com/refshelf/substances_view/1,1525,10055,00.html )
= = = = = = = = = =
Dr. Elson M. Haas speaks of detoxifying your body of nicotine through
supplements. In his article, he state:
"Many supplements are useful for smokers or during withdrawal and
detoxification. An acid urine increases the elimination of nicotine
and thus increases the craving. So, while an alkaline diet may slow
down the detoxification of nicotine, it also reduces the desire for
smoking. To support the body alkalinization during smoking cessation,
I recommend sodium or potassium bicarbonate tablets, one to be taken
with cravings for a total of five or six daily, along with the fruit-
and vegetable-based, high-fiber diet.
A general "multiple " with additional antioxidant nutrients are part
of the smoker?s program. The antioxidants help reduce the toxicity of
smoke in primary and secondary smokers and also help lessen the
free-radical irritation during the detox period. Vitamin E, 400?800
IUs daily, specifically helps stabilize the cell membranes and
protects them and the tissue membranes from the free-radical and
chemical irritations generated by cigarette smoke. Selenium, as sodium
selenite or selenomethionine, at a level of 200?300 mcg., supports
vitamin E and also reduces cancer potential, which is so much higher
with chronic smoking. Selenium also lessens sensitivity to cadmium.
Vitamin A reduces cancer risk and supports tissue health, and
beta-carotene specifically protects against lung cancer in smokers.
Smoking clearly depletes body vitamin C levels, probably by increasing
antioxidant demands and reducing absorption. Therefore, smokers need
regular vitamin C intake to help neutralize the toxins. Supplementing
500?2,000 mg. four or five times daily is recommended. (Note: Both
vitamin C and niacin are mild acids, which may increase ulcer risk, as
well as nicotine elimination and craving in smokers. If these
nutrients are used in higher amounts, extra alkaline salts such as the
bicarbonates or calcium-magnesium ascorbates, may be used.) Extra
zinc, 30?60 mg. a day, like vitamin A, helps protect the tissue and
mucous membrane health.
There are many other helpful nutrients needed during smoking and
detox. First, we need to support the B vitamins that are more easily
depleted in smokers, mainly thiamine (B1), pyridoxine (B6), and
cobalamin (B12). The B12 may also help to decrease the cellular damage
caused by tars and nicotine. Niacin (B3) helps in opening up the
circulation that is constricted with nicotine. It also lowers
cholesterol, which may reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Pantothenic
acid may reduce the aging of the skin and support the generally
stressful lifestyle. Folic acid should be taken in higher amounts,
such as 1?2 mg. daily. Coenzyme Q10 is also helpful in dosages of
30?60 mg. daily. Extra choline may support the brain and memory.
Besides zinc and selenium, other minerals also are important.
Magnesium and molybdenum are needed in higher amounts than usual.
Copper is needed at levels of 3?4 mg. daily, when used along with a
higher zinc intake (60?100 mg.). Zinc also helps reduce cadmium
absorption and toxicity. Vitamins C and E, selenium, and L-cysteine
also help to reduce cadmium toxicity.
L-cysteine is very helpful to smokers and during detoxification. Along
with thiamine and vitamin C, it protects the lungs from smoking damage
and from acetaldehyde generated by smoke. It helps reduce smoker?s
cough. Glutathione, formed from L-cysteine, is part of the protective
antioxidant enzyme system. Heavy smokers might use 250?500 mg. of
glutathione, up to 1,500 mg. (500?750 mg. more usually) of L-cysteine,
with 5?6 g. of vitamin C, 150 mg. thiamine, and the total B vitamins
and amino acids to balance the specific ones used.?
Source: Health World
( http://www.healthy.net/scr/article.asp?ID=1275 )
The book, Formula for Life, by Eberhard and Phyllis Kronhausen speaks
of the damage smoking does to your body being caused by free radicals.
Free radicals are described as highly reactive, unstable compounds
that can oxidize (burn) molecules within the cells. These cells
include proteins, carbohydrates, fats, and even DNA.
To keep free radicals at safe levels, the Kronhausens recommend the
following "micronutrient menu" to their readers:
Vitamin C - 2,000 milligrams
Vitamin E - 100 international units (IU)
Glutathione - 50-100 milligrams
Beta-carotene - 15 milligrams
B-complex Vitamins:
Thiamin (vitamin B1) - 80 milligrams
Riboflavin (B2) - 8 milligrams
Niacin (B3) - 40 milligrams
Calcium pantothenate (B5) - 240 milligrams
Pyridoxine hydrochloride (B6) - 80 milligrams
Cyanocobalamin (B12) - 400 milligrams
Ergocalciferol (D3) - 125 IU
Calcium - 250 milligrams
Because smokers systems are continually bombarded with potent toxins,
it is recommended that they or anyone who uses any nicotine product
eat at least five or more servings of fruits and vegetables each day.
"Compelling evidence indicates that a diet rich in antioxidants
(vitamins C, E, B-complex, and beta-carotene) may help protect your
body against some of the ravages of smoking."
Source: What Smokers Need to Do About Diet
( http://www.pdrhealth.com/content/nutrition_health/chapters/fgnt30.shtml )
Eating fruits and vegetables, especially green and dark yellow
vegetables reduces the odds of many types of cancers. There is some
indication that certain micronutrients found in fruits and vegetables
may protect smokers against the toxic effects of tobacco smoke.
"The National Cancer Institute says that 5 to 9 daily servings of
fruits and vegetables help protect against cancer. In the face of
studies on the importance of antioxidant vitamins, smokers would be
well-advised to eat at least nine servings, and even more, if
possible. The National Cancer Institute defines a serving as 1
medium-sized fruit, 6 ounces of 100 percent fruit juice, a half cup of
cooked vegetables, 1 cup of raw, leafy vegetables, or a quarter cup of
dried fruit."
Source: What Smokers Need to Do About Diet
( http://www.pdrhealth.com/content/nutrition_health/chapters/fgnt30.shtml )
Eating breads, cereals, grain products, rice, pasta, and beans each
day is also recommended. Grains are an important source of vitamins
and minerals such as folate, calcium, and selenium, all of which have
been associated with a lower risk of colon cancer.
Additionally, choosing foods low in fat and limiting your intake of
meats (red meat in particular as they have been associated with higher
rates of cancer) is a wise choice.
"Absorption of nicotine from nicotine gum requires mildly alkaline
saliva. Acidic foods and beverages (coffee, colas, fruit, fruit
juices, and others) may reduce nicotine absorption. This potential
interaction may be avoided by chewing nicotine gum one hour before or
after consuming acidic food and beverages."
= = = = = = = = =
Quit Smoking Reviews.com studies the top 13 "stop smoking" products
and found that the tops 4 were:
1. Nicocure ( http://www.quit-smoking-reviews.com/nicocure.htm )
2. Nicozan ( http://www.quit-smoking-reviews.com/nicozan.htm )
3. NutraQuit ( http://www.quit-smoking-reviews.com/nutraquit.htm )
4. Habitrol ( http://www.quit-smoking-reviews.com/habitrol.htm )
However, these methods are quite expensive, as you can see from the links provided.
Source: QuitSmokingReveiws.com
( http://www.quit-smoking-reviews.com/quit-smoking-product-reviews.htm )
As an alternative to nicotine gum or the patch, I would suggest Zyban.
Zyban is an anti-depressant and is available by prescription only. It
was found, in patients who took it for depression, that they had a
lack of interest in cigarettes.
I have had many friends try this approach with much success. Zyban
The onlyu side effects noted by taking Zyban would be dry mouth,
dizziness, and insomnia. This method may not be right for everyone,
but for those who can tolerate the side effects, the intensity of
physical withdrawal from nicotine is much less severe.
Wellbutrin, another anti depressant, can also be used to cease the
desires of smoking and works much like Zyban. Both drugs are FDA
approved.
Another method used to stop smoking is hypnotism. Hypnosis is an
effective way to quite smoking, either alone or in conjunction with
other support techniques. Hypnosis is an altered state of
consciousness. You are not asleep. You are not awake. You are in a
"trance" for lack of a better word. Typically the sensation is
described as relaxing, blissful, dreamy or "I just felt different".
One of my very good friends tried hypnosis to stop smoking and has had
nothing but positive results. Another friend who tried hypnosis
stopped for a bit but relapsed. Some people require one session,
others require multiple session. If you try hypnosis, be sure to look
for a hypnotherapist that offers free additional sessions if you
relapse.
Please visit ( http://www.quitsmoking.com/hypnosis/ ) for more
information regarding smoking and hypnosis.
I hope this answers your question. If you need any further
clarification before rating, please do not hesitate to ask!
Nenna-GA
Google Researcher
Sources:
Health World
( http://www.healthy.net/ )
Whole Health MD
( http://www.wholehealthmd.com )
Vitacost.com
( http://www.vitacost.com/science/hn/Drug/Nicotine_Alternatives.htm )
Google Search Terms:
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