A recent NHS study in the UK found that e-cigarettes are twice as effective as nicotine products like patches and gums in helping smokers quit.
Are You Ready to Quit Smoking?
Reading this means you’re already taking the first step toward quitting smoking. Many smokers try to quit multiple times, often relapsing within weeks, days, or even hours. A lot of these attempts occur around New Year’s when resolutions are made, but the sudden absence of nicotine can be overwhelming, leading to a quick relapse.
Quitting smoking requires proper planning, preparation, and execution. It’s about finding a balance between not putting it off and not trying too hard. This is where vaping can help.
Here’s a detailed guide to help you quit smoking by switching to vaping.
Step 1: Be Mentally Prepared
Traditionally, quitting smoking demands strong willpower. A single slip-up can lead to a relapse. Vaping, however, makes the transition easier. While you will initially experience strong cravings, you don’t need to exercise long-term self-control. Soon enough, you might find vaping so enjoyable that resisting cigarettes becomes easier.
Set a target date within the next few days to quit smoking and prepare yourself mentally for the change.
Step 2: Find the Right E-Cigarette
Choosing the right vape device is crucial. Vape devices vary in complexity and experience. While feature-rich and customizable devices might seem appealing, they can be complex and require significant knowledge to use safely. Start with simple, easy-to-use devices like pod mods, which often come preloaded with e-liquids and offer minimal customization.
For nicotine strength, consider the following guidelines:
- Heavy smokers (20+ cigarettes a day): 30-50mg nicotine salt e-liquid
- Medium smokers (10-20 cigarettes a day): 20-30mg nicotine salt e-liquid
- Light smokers (10 or fewer cigarettes a day): 10-20mg nicotine salt e-liquid
Step 3: Vape the Right Way
Vaping differs significantly from smoking. Instead of burning, an electric coil heats the e-juice to produce vapor. Most pod devices activate the coil with a puff, while others may have a button. Learning the proper way to vape is essential for a smooth transition.
Step 4: Choose the Right e-Liquid Flavor
As a vaper, you have access to a wide variety of flavors. If you miss the taste of tobacco, start with tobacco-flavored e-juices. There are many options available to satisfy your cravings. Over time, you may find yourself exploring and enjoying other flavors like fruits, desserts, and beverages.
Step 5: Find Your Perfect PG/VG Ratio
E-liquids consist of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG). PG provides a strong throat hit, similar to cigarettes, while VG produces thick vapor clouds. For a smoother transition, start with a 50/50 or 40/60 PG/VG ratio, which mimics the throat hit of cigarettes and works well with most pod systems.
Step 6: Go Easy on The Switch
Finding the right flavor and nicotine strength is key to a successful switch. Initially, vaping might not feel as satisfying as smoking, but your body will adjust. Experiment with different e-juices to find what works best for you. Visiting a local vape shop for samples can be helpful.
Step 7: Don’t Walk Alone!
Engaging with the vaping community can provide support and advice. Join Facebook pages, blogs, and forums to connect with other vapers. The community can help you with device recommendations, e-juice suggestions, and quitting tips.
What to Expect When You Stop Smoking
Vaping can help you avoid the carcinogens and toxins in traditional cigarettes. While this isn’t medical advice, here’s what many smokers experience when transitioning to vaping:
- A Few Days: Improved energy levels as carbon monoxide levels in your blood decrease.
- 1 Week: Enhanced sense of taste and smell as your nose, mouth, and lungs begin to heal.
- 3 Months: Easier breathing as your lungs start clearing out the debris from cigarette smoke.
Tips for Making the Switch Easier
- Don’t Expect a Miracle: Vaping is a tool to help you quit smoking, but your determination is crucial.
- Embrace Your Preferences: Choose e-liquids and devices that you enjoy, without worrying about impressing others.
- Have Backup Supplies: Keep backup vape devices and e-liquids to avoid running out when cravings strike.
- Don’t Vape Constantly: Try to vape in line with your smoking habits to avoid increasing your nicotine dependency.
Vaping has helped many adults quit smoking. With the right approach, it can work for you too. Ready to take the next step towards a smoke-free life?