Smoking is an addictive habit that can lead to serious health problems. Those who smoke are susceptible to many health issues, such as heart attack, low thyroid, diabetes, depression, lung cancer, gum disease and so on. However, such serious health concerns have not stopped people from smoking. The   U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that more than 80% of the population light up a cigarette everyday.

If you are trying to quit smoking, you should be aware that it isn't so easy to kick the habit. Nicotine has a way of making you crave for more as you quit. Withdrawal symptoms associated with quitting include anxiety, irritability, dizziness, lack of concentration, chest tightness and restlessness. Here are top five useful tips on how to quit smoking and also handle the withdrawal symptoms without falling back on the same problem:

• Realize the Need to Quit – Smoking is an enjoyable habit, but it is only when you tell yourself that you have to quit for good reasons that you can stop the problem altogether. You have to believe about why you need to stop smoking.
• Deep Breathing – When you stop smoking suddenly, tension and stress are the main factors that will draw you to the habit, again. An effective way to control this is by using deep breathing exercises. Begin by inhaling deeply into your lungs and then slowly exhaling. When exhaling, close your lips, so that air comes out lowly through the nose, Keep your eye closed as your exhale and sink your chin into your chest. Imagine the stress and tension moving out of your body as your exhale.  Perform this exercise in the morning and in the evening regularly, so that the urge to smoke is under control.
• Use Substitutes –You will certainly experience cravings. The best way to deal with them is by using substitutes such as mints, nuts, candy, celery sticks, gum and sunflower seeds.
• Drink Water –Nicotine in your blood strum will increase the urge to smoke when you quit the habit suddenly. Drink lots of water, as it will help to flush out nicotine from your body and reduce the need to light up a cigarette.
• Destroy Cigarettes – When you decide to quit smoking, you have to take away cigarettes in every part of the house.  Remove ashtrays and every cigarette box you might have placed anywhere in your home or office.