I often start my health talk on Dependency Management by saying that,”a dependency is something you do not need - but that the body cannot do without”. For example smoking, we really do not need these products, but to a person who is addicted, you can, no longer manage comfortably without them.
Why Say No to Tobacco?
Tobacco in its various forms is one of the biggest killers in the world today and rank among top 10 causes of early death worldwide. Even though it’s a revenue source to the government, they are taking up steps to control this addiction, by taxing it heavily, putting warning signs on packets, banning smoking in public places, prohibiting advertising etc.
The Dangers of Tobacco
Tobacco is fatal to health and causes various unhealth issues due to it’s composition and impact.
Chemical Composition:
Tobacco contains more than 4,000 chemicals, out of which 400 are toxic. Moreover, 40 are cancer-producing, and 22 are highly poisonous. Such an alarming number of dangerous chemicals makes tobacco a risk you shouldnt take.
Impact on Health:
Tobacco reduces your immune system, increases the damage to the vessel walls, and elevates both heart rate and blood pressure. Moreover, it reduces the good cholesterol (HDL). In the current enviromental scenario, tobacco further reduces your immunity to lung infections, increasing the risk of chronic respiratory ailments.
Strengthen Your Immune System:
In the recent pandemic of viral infestations, maintaining a strong immune system is more crucial than ever. You can achieve this by quitting tobacco, thereby allowing your body to repair and strengthen itself.
How to get back to zero toxicity:
1. Incorporate Antioxidants: Consume ginger and garlic, which are rich in natural antioxidants that help detoxify your body.
2. Vitamin C Boost: Eat plenty of citrus fruits rich in vitamin C, such as oranges, limes, strawberries, gooseberries, and guavas.
3. Vitamin E Intake: Include foods high in vitamin E, like sunflower seeds, wheat germ oil, sesame oil, and eggs. Green leafy vegetables are also beneficial
Healthy Alternatives and Practices;
Healthy Tips:
- Rinse mouth with ice chilled water during craving.
- Chew raw ginger until it taste bitter.
- Use Nicotine gum or patch during extreme craving to sooth your mind.
Regular Exercise: Incorporating regular exercise into your daily routine can make a world of difference. Engage in deep breathing exercises at least twice a day for 10 minutes to improve lung capacity. Additionally, aim for 20 to 30 minutes of cardio exercise daily.
If you have a bicycle or treadmill at home, use them regularly. If not, simple activities like stair climbing, spot running, or skipping rope can be just as effective.
Conclusion and Call to Action:
Quitting tobacco can dramatically improve your health, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. By incorporating antioxidants, Vitamin C and E-rich foods, and a robust exercise routine, you not only strengthen your immune system but also pave the way for a healthier lifestyle.
So, lets say no to tobacco today. Stay safe, and stay healthy. If you found this post helpful, please share it with your friends and family. Lets spread the message together!
|