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QuitNowTeam
Quit 2 years 10 months ago posted 2 weeks 4 days ago
Hello everyone,

We know quitting tobacco and nicotine is a challenging process, and we’re incredibly proud of each of you for taking this step. This is a space for encouragement, understanding, and support as we navigate this journey together—especially with the upcoming holidays, which can be an extra stressful time for many.

We’d like to remind everyone to follow our community guidelines: https://quitnow.ca/find-support/forum-guidelines to keep this forum a safe and welcoming space for all. Please be mindful that your words have an impact—kindness and respect go a long way in helping others stay motivated.

If a comment does not align with our guidelines, it will be removed to ensure this space remains positive and helpful for everyone. We truly appreciate your understanding and your contributions to making this community such a valuable resource.

Thank you for being here and supporting one another. We're in this together.

Warm regards,
QuitNow Team.
1 Comment last reply 4 days ago
Barbie9975 Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 days 4 hours ago Commented 4 days 16 hours ago
Awe thank you so much and I promise not to write anything that will harm anybody and their quitting cigarettes or vaping.
I Get To
Quit 5 years 1 month ago posted 15 hours 34 min ago
5 years, 1month and 15 days quit. $27 204 not spent on cigarettes. 37 472 cigarettes not smoked. All is pretty darn good. If you are contemplating quitting, good for you. Even better is having set a quit date. Best of all is having suffered through the first weeks of your quit journey and looked that monster in the face and told it that you in control.
2 Comments last reply 9 hours ago
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 years 1 month ago Commented 10 hours 1 min ago
Congrats I Get To 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
QuitCoach Elke Log in or register to post comments
Quit 30 years 8 months ago Commented 9 hours 15 min ago
Congratulations to 4 years 1 month and 15 days being smoke free I Get To! This is a major milestone! Thanks for sharing how this reflects in the number of cigarettes not smoked and the money saved for better things! You are right, quitting is about taking charge of that addiction! Although it is tough to go through the withdrawal in the beginning, things will be getting better and there are so many benefits to celebrate! Keep it up and keep celebrating those milestones!
Stan_2024
Quit 4 days 4 hours ago posted 3 days 7 hours ago
Health wise there is no option but to quit
3 Comments last reply 2 days ago
QuitCoach Keri Log in or register to post comments
Quit 23 years 9 months ago Commented 2 days 23 hours ago
Hi Stan_2024, thank you for sharing your thoughts with our online community. It sounds like you have identified a pretty strong motivation in your health to inspire your quit journey. Congratulations on living smoke-free for 2 days now. I am happy to see that you are using supports like our online forum to share some of your thoughts and experience. I hope you find inspiration and motivation from your peers and coaches that are active here. Should you want to connect with a Quit Coach for any additional support please don't hesitate to call 1-877-455-2233. It would be our honor to assist you in reaching your goal. All the best in your continued journey Stan_2024.
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 years 1 month ago Commented 2 days 15 hours ago
Welcome to the group Stan2024. 🤗
Stan_2024 Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 days 4 hours ago Commented 2 days 13 hours ago
Thank you
Jay Gharib
Quitting in 2 weeks 4 days posted 3 days 11 hours ago
I need to quit cigarettes
1 Comment last reply 3 days ago
QuitCoach Emilie Log in or register to post comments
Thinking about quitting Commented 3 days 10 hours ago
Hi Jay,

I have posted in your previous post below but just wanted to share here again that you've got this. Please feel free to reach out and chat with us anytime. We can also speak to you by phone if you ever need additional supports by calling 1-877-455-2233. Best of luck!
Jay Gharib
Quitting in 2 weeks 4 days posted 3 days 11 hours ago
I tried to quit cigarettes several times but non of the methods didn’t work for me . I need to change something in my brain and my mind may be
2 Comments last reply 2 days ago
QuitCoach Emilie Log in or register to post comments
Thinking about quitting Commented 3 days 10 hours ago
Hi Jay Gharib,

Thank you for sharing this with us today. Thank you for also sharing some past struggles as well. I am sorry previous methods did not work for you. You are very right in saying that the first step in a quit is shifting your brain, habits and focusing on goals and what your quit motivations are and why you are back here trying to quit. This can very much drive you on a day to day to focus on what positive outcomes are coming from this quit and where you would like to be down the road. I am sure many would agree. You often hear the journey to living smoke-free with many various tools and ways of adapting and shifting what works for you.

We believe in you and wish you nothing but the best outcome on your quit journey!
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 years 1 month ago Commented 2 days 15 hours ago
Hi Jay. Our mindset is so important when deciding to make this big change. One thing I know is no matter what your brain tells you, quitting is completely doable and you will not die from withdrawal (that was what my thoughts were when I quit). There will be uncomfortable moments for sure, but you can get through them. Quit methods like patches, and gum will ease the discomfort of withdrawal but you still need to push through the moments. Take advantage of all this program has to offer including chats with the Quit Coaches when you need it. I believe you can do this! 🤗
Emily.s
Quit 4 days 4 hours ago posted 3 days 13 hours ago
I have smoked weed, meth, done coke, mdma, shrooms, pills and been an alcoholic since i was 14. Quit them all with ease.. I'm 30 now and smoking cigs had been by far the hardest thing i have ever tried to stop.
Started taking champix last week, it is helping. Today is the day i have to stop smoking while taking champix. Luck is still needed.
5 Comments last reply 1 day ago
QuitCoach Emilie Log in or register to post comments
Thinking about quitting Commented 3 days 11 hours ago
Hi Emily. S,

Congrats on taking the first steps into your quit journey. I am happy to hear that you are seeing the effects of taking the Champix so far and it's easing your quit. That's fantastic news. Quitting smoking is very hard but being honest with yourself about that will also help. You will notice with every passing day while putting in the work that you can overcome this addiction like the others. Living a life free of smoking can be very fulfilling .

We will be here routing for you in this upcoming journey and we know that you can and will be successful like you were in your other quits! Happy Quit Day!
Anna JG Log in or register to post comments
Quitting in 5 days 19 hours Commented 2 days 17 hours ago
Wishing you luck!
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 years 1 month ago Commented 2 days 15 hours ago
You can do this Emily 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻 you are a warrior 🤗
MJ Log in or register to post comments
Quit 11 months ago Commented 1 day 19 hours ago
Take it one day at a time and congratulate yourself for every moment you don't smoke.
Emily.s Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 days 4 hours ago Commented 1 day 17 hours ago
Thank you everyone ❤️
Barbie9975
Quit 4 days 4 hours ago posted 4 days 16 hours ago
I am kind of scared to let go of cigarettes tomorrow Dec 10/24. So in the morning I'm waking up to put a patch on my arm. To me that is alil
scary, I've been smoking since the day I turned 18 yrs old. I quit once in that time for 6 months the rest of the time I've have been smoking cigarettes. I've made up my mind to give it another shot to quit again.
4 Comments last reply 2 days ago
QuitCoach Emilie Log in or register to post comments
Thinking about quitting Commented 4 days 15 hours ago
Hi Barbie9975,

Congrats on your upcoming quit. These first steps can be very scary but also so rewarding of a journey. The fact that you have done a quit before and know what to expect is going to give you insight on the things that did work for you and the fact that you got trough it before will help keep you focused and encouraged. The advice I can give is take it one day at a time and to be kind to yourself. Happy you reached out to share with our amazing quit community!
MJ Log in or register to post comments
Quit 11 months ago Commented 4 days 14 hours ago
Good luck. Take it one day at a time and know that all difficult moments will pass, and it will!
Barbie9975 Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 days 4 hours ago Commented 4 days 11 hours ago
Thank you I will do my best to think about that the next craving.
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 years 1 month ago Commented 2 days 15 hours ago
Hi Barbie I hope you are slaying the dragon almost two days in 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻. You can do this!
QuitCoach Chiharu
Quit 8 years 10 months ago posted 5 days 19 hours ago
Smoking has a significant impact on your sense of taste and smell, often dulling these senses over time. Many people don’t realize that quitting smoking can lead to noticeable improvements in these areas, allowing you to enjoy food, aromas, and your surroundings in ways you may not have experienced in years.
The chemicals in cigarettes damage your taste buds, reducing their sensitivity to flavors. At the same time, tobacco smoke irritates the lining of your nose, impairing your ability to detect odors. This can make meals less enjoyable and everyday scents less vibrant.
When you quit smoking, your body begins to repair itself almost immediately. Within 48 hours, your nerve endings start to heal, and your senses of taste and smell begin to improve. Over the following weeks and months, you may find that food tastes richer, and you notice subtle aromas that were previously muted. This recovery can bring a sense of joy and rediscovery to everyday experiences. Foods you once found bland may surprise you with their complexity, and familiar scents like fresh flowers, baked goods, or a cup of coffee can feel new and invigorating. To support your recovery, drink plenty of water to help flush out toxins and try exploring new foods and flavors. Paying attention to the sensory details of your meals and surroundings can enhance your appreciation for these changes.
Quitting smoking is not only a step toward better health but also an opportunity to reconnect with the world around you in a more vibrant and meaningful way. Keep going; you can do it!
1 Comment last reply 5 days ago
Tamara L. Log in or register to post comments
Quit 6 years 6 months ago Commented 5 days 8 hours ago
Sense of smell. Oh ya. Big time returned. Taste too. I’ve giggled with glee tasting a strawberry not surround in nicotine. Almost cried. Foods. Odours, pleasant and foul stunned me. I had no idea how rich and wonderful food tasted. I’m to this day trying out different foods and recipes I had not been able to taste and smell. And how disgusting smoking smells.
Quit Coach Linda
Quit 9 years 10 months ago posted 1 week ago
Hi everyone,

Join us this Tuesday, December 10th, 2024 at 12 pm PST for our group support session on "Mental Health and Quitting.”

In this session, we will discuss a variety of ways to take care of overall mental health when quitting or reducing nicotine use.

There is an association between the emotions, thoughts, and behaviours related to depression and nicotine withdrawal after quitting smoking.

Join us to learn about the impact that nicotine withdrawal can have on the body and brain after quitting, as well as practical coping techniques.

Please visit this link for more information on Group Support Sessions:

https://quitnow.ca/find-support/group-support-sessions

To join, go on the top toolbar and click “Find Support”, and then “Group Support” on the drop-down menu. From there you will see the “Register here!” button.

If you have additional questions, do not hesitate to contact us anytime at 1-877-455-2233.

We hope you will be able to join us, and we look forward to seeing you there!
Poodles
Quit 4 months 1 week ago posted 1 week 1 day ago
EPIC fail
Haven’t checked in admitted
I just got an email. Feel obliged to update this community.

Fooled myself into believing I could have 1 or 2
I loved the feeling of being smoke free.
Loved it. Breathing better, much more in touch with my values.
Scary thing is, now when I think of quitting smoking 🚬. It’s that much more threatening to me. The idea of quitting makes me so much more satiated with every puff, since I quit. I hold onto the addiction that much more.
Like the child in me being denied a pleasure.
So I sneak and get everything I want and need.
My doctor even sympathized with me and acknowledged the difficulties of quitting smoking cigarettes.
I hate the control it has over me, I hate the smell and the shame. I hate the fact that the nicotine can, and is easily replaced. Yet still I need the cigarette itself.
I wrote on here my absolute commitment to quitting smoking and I failed.
4 Comments last reply 4 days ago
QuitCoach Keri Log in or register to post comments
Quit 23 years 9 months ago Commented 1 week ago
Hi Poodles, I thank you for your raw honesty in sharing this part of your quit journey. I am sorry you are feeling this way, however it is through this discomfort, and reckoning that you have discovered such a huge amount of awareness into the benefits you loved feeling, the things you hate about your addiction to smoking, and you have proven you have the capacity to successfully quit cigarettes previously. I think all of those are pretty huge wins Poodles. You often hear the journey to living smoke-free is rarely linear. You hear this because most often it is true. Most of us have had more than one day one. The only way for this to be an EPIC fail, as you put it, is if you just quit trying to achieve the goal you have set for yourself. We believe in you Poodles, you just need to believe in you too.
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 years 1 month ago Commented 6 days 10 hours ago
There is no such thing as failure Poodles. You just need to get back on the horse when you are ready. You succeeded in giving your body a break from cigarettes for whatever amount of time you made it for, and you will do it again. Sending big hugs your way 🤗
MJ Log in or register to post comments
Quit 11 months ago Commented 5 days 18 hours ago
It's a tough habit so don't beat yourself up. It's a big deal to quit for any amount of time. If you did it for 4 months next time you know you can do it for even longer.
TerryTeo Log in or register to post comments
Quit 2 weeks 1 day ago Commented 4 days 14 hours ago
I've failed a million times just trying again and again til it sticks
Quit Coach Linda
Quit 9 years 10 months ago posted 1 week 2 days ago
Certain foods and drinks can play a supportive role in reducing cravings and withdrawal symptoms after quitting smoking. Here's why:

Regulating mood and reducing cravings - Some foods can help stabilize your mood and reduce nicotine cravings by influencing brain chemistry:

- Complex carbohydrates like whole grains, oats, and sweet potatoes provide steady energy and help stabilize blood sugar levels, which can help reduce irritability and fatigue.
- Foods rich in tryptophan (such as bananas, turkey, and nuts) can boost serotonin production, improving mood and combating stress.

Detoxifying your body - Quitting smoking initiates a detox process, and certain foods aid in flushing out toxins:

- Citrus fruits (like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits) are high in vitamin C and antioxidants, which support your immune system and speed up detoxification.
- Cruciferous vegetables (such as broccoli, cabbage, and kale) enhance liver function, aiding the body in processing toxins more effectively.

Managing cravings - Keeping your mouth and hands busy with healthy snacks can help redirect cravings:

- Crunchy vegetables and fruits like carrots, celery, and apples provide a satisfying oral fixation and are low-calorie alternatives to smoking.
- Chewing gum or mints can keep your mouth occupied while reducing the urge to smoke.

Hydrating your system - Drinking plenty of water is critical for reducing withdrawal symptoms:

- Water helps flush nicotine and toxins from your system while combating dehydration, which can worsen withdrawal symptoms like headaches and fatigue.
- Herbal teas (such as chamomile or green tea) provide hydration and can have calming effects, helping you relax during moments of stress.

Reducing stress and anxiety - Certain foods and drinks have natural calming properties:

- Dark chocolate in moderation boosts serotonin and dopamine, providing a mood lift and stress relief.
- Magnesium-rich foods like spinach, almonds, and avocados help reduce tension and promote relaxation.

Replenishing nutrients lost to smoking - Smoking depletes key vitamins and minerals from your body, and a nutrient-rich diet helps restore balance:

- Leafy greens, nuts, and seeds replenish depleted B vitamins, which are essential for energy and stress management.
- Iron-rich foods like lentils and lean meats help improve circulation and energy levels.

Avoiding trigger foods - While some foods help reduce withdrawal symptoms, others might trigger cravings:

- Avoid caffeine and alcohol initially, as they can heighten anxiety and are often linked with smoking habits.

If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, consult your doctor or a healthcare professional before starting a new diet. Incorporating these foods and drinks into your daily routine can not only alleviate withdrawal symptoms but also support your overall health and well-being, making the quit journey smoother and more rewarding.
Nicotinefreeme
Quit 1 week 3 days ago posted 1 week 4 days ago
I quit cold turkey in the past for four years and many prior attempts been smoking/vaping for over a year now. I really want to quit turkey again and I know I can because I've done it before. I started by vaping and that soon led to smoking. I'm really over it and can't afford it. I'd like to go back to the gym again. My quit date is set for December 4th
3 Comments last reply 5 days ago
Quit Coach Linda Log in or register to post comments
Quit 9 years 10 months ago Commented 1 week 3 days ago
Hi Nicotinefreeme, welcome to QuitNow community and congratulations on your decision to quit! It's inspiring to see your determination to quit cold turkey again—especially knowing you’ve done it successfully before. That proves you’ve got the strength and willpower to make this happen. Vaping leading back to smoking is a path many people experience, but the fact that you’re ready to quit again shows how much you value your health and well-being. Setting your quit date for December 4th is such a strong commitment, and it sounds like you’re ready to reclaim your freedom from nicotine. You can do this! Returning to the gym is a fantastic goal to pair with your quit. Exercise not only helps distract from cravings but also boosts your mood and energy levels, which can be so helpful in the early days. Also, exercise can be such a powerful tool during this journey—not just for your health but also as a stress reliever. Plus, as you stick to your quit, you’ll start noticing improvements in your endurance and breathing, making those workouts even more rewarding. Cold turkey isn’t easy, but since you’ve succeeded with it before, you know how to prepare for the challenges. Remember to lean on any strategies that helped you last time—whether it’s distracting yourself, drinking lots of water, or using deep breathing techniques when cravings strike. And don’t hesitate to come here for support if you’re having a tough day. We’re all cheering you on and believe in your ability to succeed again. Tomorrow marks a fresh start, and all the benefits of a smoke-free life are waiting for you. Thank you for sharing with us today and wishing you strength and success on your quit journey!
Liz S Log in or register to post comments
Quit 4 years 1 month ago Commented 1 week 2 days ago
You can do it again Nicotinefreeme! Just focus on getting through today … sending good juju as you begin your journey 🤗
MJ Log in or register to post comments
Quit 11 months ago Commented 5 days 18 hours ago
I signed up for a year gym membership on the day I quit. It was very motivating due to the cost and helped me physically and mentally stay off them. I couldn't really afford a gym membership and smokes, so it kept me off them.
cassandraneilson
Quit 2 weeks ago posted 1 week 6 days ago
Today, it was my first day reducing cigarettes and I'm feeling better already. I find it hard cutting down, but it's worth it. I have more energy and I feel more relaxed. The cravings are getting at me and I've been coping by staying busy. I'm more productive the less I smoke. Smoking tires me out and chores and personal care get sidelined. I gave myself a pedicure today with my electric foot bath. Been procrastinating on that for weeks. I hope I can keep this reduction in smoking again tomorrow - one day at a time. Hope everyone and their families are well.
1 Comment last reply 1 week ago
QuitCoach Chiharu Log in or register to post comments
Quit 8 years 10 months ago Commented 1 week 5 days ago
Hi cassandraneilson, congratulations on making it through your first day of reducing cigarettes! It is amazing to hear how you are already feeling the benefits, like having more energy and feeling more relaxed. Recognizing how smoking was affecting your productivity and self-care is such a powerful insight, and it sounds like you are turning that around beautifully.
Giving yourself a pedicure with your electric foot bath is such a great way to practice self-care and reward yourself for this positive change. Staying busy is an excellent strategy for managing cravings, and it sounds like you are really putting it into action. Remember, it is okay to take things one day at a time, just as you are.
You are building new habits and reclaiming time for yourself, which is a huge achievement. Keep celebrating these small wins, and do not hesitate to lean on support if you ever need it. Wishing you continued strength and success; you have got this!
TerryTeo
Quit 2 weeks 1 day ago posted 2 weeks ago
Just quit again, I've decided to use a vape for weak moments and have two boxes of nicotine lozenges. I just need a few puffs now and then but the focus is to use the lozenges. The mental side of quitting smoking is demonic so I challenge all that smoker mentality and come here for a mind shift to quitting mind set. Good luck to everyone here on the journey of victory over addiction. I'm having trouble with buds don't know if I should quit it. But I am off the amphetamines and don't want to use it no more. Your feedback would be welcome to me. Thanks
2 Comments last reply 1 week ago
QuitCoach Elke Log in or register to post comments
Quit 30 years 8 months ago Commented 2 weeks ago
Hi TerryTeo, congratulations on deciding to quit today! It sounds like you have a plan on how to manage cravings. Remind yourself that cravings will pass and look for things that can help to distract you: anything that helps to take your mind off the cravings. Exercise does release dopamine, so going for walks can be really helpful. Finding things to keep busy and organize can also help. Look for some projects you always wanted to do. Think about all your reasons for quitting, for your health, financially, maybe even socially. It is not easy to quit, but with persistence you can get there. Feel free to reach out and connect with a coach for more support. Our phone number is 1-877-455-2233. You can do this TerryTeo!
cassandraneilson Log in or register to post comments
Quit 2 weeks ago Commented 1 week 6 days ago
Hello TerryTeo, That's great that you are off the amphetamines and don't want it anymore. Quitting the cigarettes is a positive thing that you have done. Keep going and I know it's hard. I'm trying to reduce my smoking to a cigarette every hour. This works because I have a bad habit of chainsmoking. Keeping busy seems to be helping with cravings. Do you have lots of things that you could be doing to cope with not smoking? Best of luck TerryTeo.
mikeskywalker81
Quit 2 weeks 2 days ago posted 2 weeks 1 day ago
been having shortness of breath issues lately and been to breathing specialists whom ruled out copd and asthma... unknown if they still classified it as restrictive lung disease... but doc suggested i quit smoking 😒 but which doc doesnt suggest it right....
3 Comments last reply 5 days ago
QuitCoach Emilie Log in or register to post comments
Thinking about quitting Commented 2 weeks 1 day ago
Hi mikeskywalker81,

Thank you for reaching out and congrats on the steps to being here and making an effort to kick this habit. You will find that the community here is very welcoming and encouraging. If having any issues with breathing or anything that affects your lungs, a quit will always be highly encouraged yes. Many do see these improvements on their health within a few short weeks for starting their quit as well. I truly hope that this is the case for you as well and you can see the changes with every passing day.

Once again, Congrats on your quit!
TerryTeo Log in or register to post comments
Quit 2 weeks 1 day ago Commented 2 weeks ago
My doc said I can use NRT as long as I need so long as l don't smoke. So hard to find a good substitute in weak moments so I use a vape but I find it hard not to use it hard out but I try discipline myself and wait out the crave for it and purge the evil thought coming over me to pick up. Distraction is key also deep breaths and drink some health drinks. And delay acting on urges.
MJ Log in or register to post comments
Quit 11 months ago Commented 5 days 18 hours ago
anxiety too can also give you shortness of breath.