When cigarettes were first introduced, they were advertised as a method of relieving anxiety and stress. This they did, in a way. However, we soon discovered that while they provided a temporary relief, or “fix”, the smoke itself was also affecting our lungs and kidneys in terrifying ways. Over the years we have seen cancer rates rise and immune systems shut down due to smoking. People are still smoking, because unfortunately, nicotine is addictive.

Fortunately, there are now a lot of people who want to quit smoking. There are plenty of products to help quit smoking for good, from specific chewing gums to medication. For tips on how to kick the habit, here are a few good ways to clear out your system, and some tips to help you deal with nicotine withdrawal:

1. Acupuncture
Acupuncture is a medically approved process that is known for helping to soothe symptoms of depression and anxiety, among other amazing outcomes. However, if you have a phobia of needles, you might want to stick to some other healing methods. Acupuncture involves visiting a medical professional, who will listen to your problems and, basing their method upon what you tell them, they will then have you get comfortable and lay down, at which point the needles come in. You will be stuck with needles, but you won’t feel a thing, except for released tension and a sudden deep connection to the world around you. If you want to give this a try, make sure you check the reviews of the professional before making an appointment.

2. Drink plenty of water
It’s always important to stay hydrated, but with cigarette smoke and nicotine in your body, you might dehydrate easier than usual. You’ll definitely want to drink double the amount you would usually drink, to ensure that you are able to flush out all the unnecessary chemicals.

3. Exercise
Speaking of flushing out your system, another way to do it is to get plenty of exercise to sweat and boost circulation in every part of your body, especially your limbs. Also, the bad chemicals will release with your sweat, so you’ll be benefiting your health in more ways than one!

4. Nicoderm replacement products
It’s hard to quit cold turkey. That’s why a lot of people who are eager to quit tend to use nicotine replacement products to wean off slowly. Nicotine patches, gum and lozenges are one of the most common methods. Here is how these patches work. They automatically contain nicotine. You apply the patch to your skin, much like a sticker or a Band-Aid. The nicotine releases from the patch into your bloodstream. This is a much safer way of ingesting nicotine.

5. Eat foods high in antioxidants
When you smoke cigarettes, all the nutrition you put in your system is compromised, Antioxidants can be found in most fruits and vegetables, which are also a good source of many other nutrients. By eating antioxidant filled meals, you are putting up an excellent fight against all the nicotine.

So please, take care of yourself. Smoking takes lives, and taking the above steps to help yourself stop can save them instead.