Former smoker/cravings/pre-op

[8petals 57]

I don't think I've shared this before, and I certainly hope I'm not the only one here that's a former smoker. I quit smoking on April 1st of this year after 15 yrs. I used the nicotine Patches. When using nicotine Patches, they recommend using them for an average of 6 months. I just took my last patch off. Even while using the patches, I still had cravings which have decreased with each passing day. I fear tomorrow that my cravings will come back 10 fold. Tomorrow is also the day I start my pre-op diet, and for those who have quit know that a lot of the times you crave more food, sweets especially, but I absolutely cannot cheat. And I know nicotine is a huge NO-NO post op. I've come way too far to give in to a cigarette which will only destroy my lungs, health, and eventually, take my life. Any advice? If you're a former smoker reading this, how did you quit? What kept you motivated? My kids are my motivation; they are as vital as oxygen to me. I can't leave this earth prematurely. I want to watch them reach every milestone, as well as my grandchildren. As always, thanks for listening. XO

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[kmorri 1,689]

I quit smoking 8 years ago.....my husband and I both quit at the same time......the money we were saving was our motivation. We both did it cold turkey so we didn't use any Patches or anything.

It was not easy! ...but I'm so thankful to have the monkey off my back! I do have to say it was probably almost 2 years before I completely felt like I didn't want to smoke...........but I never ever gave in. That's the key to never give in and stay strong.

I wish you the best!!! It is so worth it!!!

[KristenLe 5,980]

I am not a former smoker but I can tell you what my therapist advised to get over food cravings. First of all - write a list of all the great things you want after weight loss (keep it where you can access easily - ie. phone wallpaper). Find distractions - go for a walk, yoga, color, read, clean, paint, etc). Tell yourself (out loud) - NO! (Add an answer to "why bother" - such as "you want to be healthy for your children). Good luck! It is not easy - but think of how good you'll feel!

[cdsjjotn 516]

Former smoker here! I tried quitting several times with different aids and each time failed, the day before my surgery I quit cold turkey mostly due to fear. I didn't want any complications I don't handle sick well. I didn't miss it in the beginning due to the healing part it kept me busy just thinking about my Protein and Water intake each day . I'm now 8 months post op and less then 20 pounds to goal. I miss it a lot and think about that inhale a lot. But my life has completely changed, I'm not as social any more so I'm not around smokers anymore, I'm so busy with my home, grandkids, and my workouts that my mind stays off the urge for the most part. Also I was able to buy all new clothes with all the money I save now ($280 a month) !! Good luck to you!

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[8petals 57]

I quit smoking 8 years ago.....my husband and I both quit at the same time......the money we were saving was our motivation. We both did it cold turkey so we didn't use any Patches or anything.

It was not easy! ...but I'm so thankful to have the monkey off my back! I do have to say it was probably almost 2 years before I completely felt like I didn't want to smoke...........but I never ever gave in. That's the key to never give in and stay strong.

I wish you the best!!! It is so worth it!!!

Thank you for your encouragement! I was a little weepy this morning, cravings were strong, but I HAVE to do this!

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I am not a former smoker but I can tell you what my therapist advised to get over food cravings. First of all - write a list of all the great things you want after weight loss (keep it where you can access easily - ie. phone wallpaper). Find distractions - go for a walk, yoga, color, read, clean, paint, etc). Tell yourself (out loud) - NO! (Add an answer to "why bother" - such as "you want to be healthy for your children). Good luck! It is not easy - but think of how good you'll feel!

Thank you! I'll make a list right now.

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[8petals 57]

Former smoker here! I tried quitting several times with different aids and each time failed, the day before my surgery I quit cold turkey mostly due to fear. I didn't want any complications I don't handle sick well. I didn't miss it in the beginning due to the healing part it kept me busy just thinking about my Protein and Water intake each day . I'm now 8 months post op and less then 20 pounds to goal. I miss it a lot and think about that inhale a lot. But my life has completely changed, I'm not as social any more so I'm not around smokers anymore, I'm so busy with my home, grandkids, and my workouts that my mind stays off the urge for the most part. Also I was able to buy all new clothes with all the money I save now ($280 a month) !! Good luck to you!

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Wow, that's AWESOME!! I'm so proud of you! It's definitely a very hard addiction to overcome. I'm more sleepy than usual, but I know that's normal because of not having nicotine now. I'm looking forward to the money I'll save too. My fiancé said just the other day "Think of how many new clothes you'll be able to buy!"

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