What if the cold turkey method of quitting smoking doesn’t work?

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destroying a cigarette

While there are many ex-smokers who find success with the cold turkey method when quitting smoking, it doesn’t work for everyone. If you’ve tried to stop smoking all at once, rather than gradually, and without the help of nicotine replacement therapies (NRTs), such as e-cigs, and haven’t been successful, don’t be disheartened. There are many alternative approaches and strategies that may better suit your needs. Continue reading to learn more. 

What does quitting cold turkey mean?

Quitting cold turkey means to stop smoking abruptly without any support or replacement medications. While some ex-smokers manage to effectively quit without any stop smoking aids, nicotine withdrawal can cause added stress, making the cold turkey method incredibly challenging for some. 

Alternative approach #1: NRTs

Many ex-smokers find NRT products like e-cigs, nicotine gum, patches, lozenges, or inhalers helpful. These products provide a controlled, reduced dose of nicotine, which can help ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings while gradually reducing nicotine dependence. 

Alternative approach #2: Prescription medications

Prescription medications such as varenicline (Chantix) or bupropion (Zyban) can help reduce nicotine cravings and withdrawal symptoms, making it easier for ex-smokers to successfully quit. Be sure to consult with your healthcare provider to help you decide which medication works best for you. 

Alternative approach #3: Behavioral therapy

Consider joining smoking cessation programs or counseling sessions if quitting cold turkey doesn’t work for you. Behavioral therapy can help you identify and manage the triggers that lead to smoking and develop healthier coping mechanisms. 

Alternative approach #4: Support groups

When you surround yourself with a supportive community of ex-smokers who understand the challenge you face, the sharing of experiences works as great encouragement to keep you motivated to stay on track with your quit smoking journey.

Alternative approach #5: Mindfulness and stress reduction

Smoking is often tied to stress relief. Learning and practicing relaxation techniques, like deep breathing exercises, meditation, and yoga, can help manage stress without relying on combustible cigarettes to do it for you. 

Remember that quitting smoking is a highly individualized journey. What works for one person won’t always work for another. It’s essential to stay patient, persistent, and open to trying different approaches until you find the one that suits you best.

What other stop smoking aids have you tried to curb your nicotine addiction? Drop a comment below to share with our readers.

The importance of vape maintenance and cleaning

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logic pro maintenance

Unlike combustible cigarettes, vape products are designed to be used repeatedly. Although disposables are marketed as “single-use units”, each device can last days or weeks depending on your vaping needs, making them a far more convenient and efficient choice over a pack of smokes. Since users aim to invest in a device that not only kicks their nicotine cravings but is also built to last, you must perform regular maintenance and cleaning to ensure its longevity. Listed below are reasons why these actions are important and what you can do to make sure that your Logic vapes outlast other e-cigs on the market. 

Vape maintenance and cleaning prevent early replacement 

Your Logic vapes are your investment into keeping smoke-free and when each device is well-maintained, you won’t need to replace them as quickly. A good quality vape can last forever if it’s properly cared for and a regular cleaning schedule makes it so that you don’t need to carve much time out of your day. Simply charge your unit often, unplug it when it’s finished charging, and disassemble all of the pieces now and then to give them a good wipe. These simple steps ensure longevity for your Logic vapes. 

Ensures your devices work effectively

Each device provides a unique vaping experience for the user and some people read reviews and purchase their units based on this. So, to avoid any disappointment, it’s important that your device receives the care and attention it deserves. Regular maintenance makes it so the battery power is efficient throughout the day and regular cleaning ensures the performance in the delivery of your vapor is optimal. 

Safety first

When you maintain and clean your e-cig, there are fewer chances for things to go wrong. While it’s rare for your device to have issues, things like overcharging, leaving your device in extreme temperatures, and forgetting to unclog the mouthpiece are all situations where your device can overheat. Be sure to be vigilant and establish and routine and you won’t have any problems enjoying your Logic vapes. 

How often do you perform maintenance and cleaning with your device? Drop a comment below to share your experience with other vapers. 

How can you support a loved one who’s quitting combustibles?

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someone helping a man breaking a cigarette

Is someone you care about trying to quit combustible cigarettes? Deciding to withdraw from smoking is a big deal and with a quit plan in place, this bold decision to go smoke-free could become a reality. Like anything, one of the best ways that you can encourage a loved one to achieve their goals is by offering them support while they face their biggest challenges. Quitting cigarettes works in the same way. While there are nicotine replacement therapies that they can use to combat their cravings, the support of a family member, friend or co-worker can sometimes provide them with some added motivation to increase their chances of success. And while it’s only natural to want to offer inspiration and reassurance, it can be difficult to know how to offer support to your struggling loved ones. That’s why understanding what you can do to impact their quitting journey is the key to helping support a smoke free lifestyle. Here are some tips that you can use to encourage the person in your life who’s quitting combustible cigarettes. 

Continue the conversation 

Smoking is a serious and complicated addiction which is why a person requires the help and support of their loved ones when they decide to quit. While it’s important to look for an opening to start a conversation, it’s even more imperative to build upon a supportive foundation. So, here are some topics that may give you the right opening to offer words of encouragement:

  • “I’m thinking about quitting smoking.”
  • “My doctor said that I could benefit from quitting smoking.”
  • “I want to start a family. I should probably quit smoking.”
  • “My wife is pregnant. I should probably quit smoking for her.”
  • “My kids keep asking about my cigarettes. I should probably set an example and quit smoking for them.” 

Do you know how to respond to the above sentences? Well, the first thing you should do is affirm their statement and let them know that you think it’s a great idea that they’re considering quitting. If you’re an ex-smoker yourself, you can even use this as an opportunity to draw from your own experiences. Here are some ways that you can respond supportively: 

  • “I’m so proud of you. I’ll help with whatever you need to make it happen.”
  • “Quitting will be hard, but I know you can do it. Have you set a quit date?”
  • “You’re not alone in this. It’s a tough decision and I’ll be here for you.”
  • “Quitting smoking is the best thing I ever did! I can offer you some tips if you want.” 
  • “Have you considered a disposable e-cig as a tool for your transition?”

If an opening isn’t offered, create one by talking about something you heard in the news or describe your first-hand experience. 

Do your best to listen

While conversing has a powerful effect when it comes to providing support, listening can sometimes be a more dynamic, supporting approach. Having a conversation invites an authoritative, judgmental opinion, so, rather than influencing their decision in any way, simply do your best to listen and resist the urge to make any comments unless they’re requested. 

Try to not lecture as a means of support

When you love someone, sometimes supportive conversations can easily turn into a never-ending lecture. So, to exhibit encouragement, try to avoid the following:

  • Nagging about the dangers of smoking.
  • Counting how many cigarettes they’ve smoked.
  • Asking them when they smoked last.
  • Getting upset if they slip and smoke a cigarette.

Offer distractions

The things you say can be meaningful, however, inviting your loved one to take part in smoke free activities can provide an even more impactful show of encouragement. Healthy diversions can also provide motivation to keep with the program. Here are some that we suggest:

  • Watch a movie.
  • Take a hike.
  • Plan a games night.
  • Sign up for a class (cooking, painting, etc.)
  • Attend a play. 

It’s important to suggest fun endeavors where smoking may not be permitted. Keep in mind that while participating in an activity may distract them from their cravings, triggers are sometimes unavoidable and you should be prepared to offer them a way to keep their hands busy as well.

  • Give them gum or hard candy.
  • Offer them a straw or a toothpick. 
  • Bring along some healthy snacks (carrots, nuts, etc.).
  • Offer them a stress ball to use. 
  • Walk them through deep breathing exercises.
  • Ensure that they drink lots of water.
  • Suggest a disposable e-cig to help handle their nicotine cravings while also giving them something to hold. 

Essentially the best way that you can support your loved one is with patience and positivity, celebrating their successes, no matter how big or small and helping keep them busy and stress-free. Your ongoing support could be all they need to make this quit attempt their last. 

Have you ever used a disposable e-cig to help quit combustibles? Have you encouraged someone you care about to quit combustibles successfully? We’re interested in hearing your story in the comments section below.

Alex Wilks is the Social Media & Content Creator for Trek Marketing. Her work has been featured on Global News, Black Press Media, andthe Kwantlen Chronicle

These nicotine replacement therapies are helpful if you’re trying to quit smoking

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focused on an e-cigarette being held by a man

nicotine replacement therapy

Ultimately, quitting traditional cigarettes isn’t the struggle, it’s the battle to overcome nicotine. This potent stimulant is found within everyday tobacco products and once inhaled, it courses through your lungs and into your bloodstream attaching itself to receptors within your brain. This causes a steady release of dopamine — a natural, organic chemical that releases slowly and makes you feel happy — which has many adverse health risks. When the effect quickly wears away, smokers may then be faced with irritability, moodiness and even insomnia. That’s why if you’re looking to wean yourself off from the stronghold of nicotine, it’s important to take advantage of these favorable nicotine replacement therapies.

What types of nicotine replacement therapy exist?

One of the biggest factors that motivate combustible cigarette smokers to try nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) is the fact that these treatments have the ability to combat some of the intense and challenging withdrawal symptoms — cravings, anger, frustration, anxiety and depression — that are enhanced when the nicotinic receptors in the brain are not receiving nicotine. While there are various forms of nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), not every product has the ability to work for everyone. The following NRT are commonly used when ex-smokers are trying to wean down their nicotine levels.

  • Nicotine patch: The patch gives a measured dose of nicotine through the skin. There are many different strengths and types available.
  • Nicotine gum: This NRT can be bought without a prescription and comes in 2 mg and 4 mg strengths.
  • Nicotine Lozenges: Similar to the gum, a nicotine lozenge is available in 2 mg and 4 mg and is usually taken every 2 hours for the first 6 weeks of the quitting process.  
  • E-cigarettes: These NRTs are available in a variety of strengths and flavors and are the most popular and most successful method for ex-smokers who are seeking long-term nicotine replacement therapy for a physical as well as a mental dependency. Lowering your nicotine concentration levels over time puts more power back into your hands. Moreover, if you’re a person who possesses an emotional connection to the inhalation sensation, the smell, the taste or the touch of combustible cigarettes, e-cigs are the perfect NRT to satisfy your psychological dependencies.

Choosing the right nicotine replacement therapy for you

When you’re choosing your method of NRT, think about your lifestyle and pattern of smoking. For example, if you only crave the stimulating sensation, nicotine gum might be enough to subside your hankering for a cigarette, but if you need something to keep your hands busy an e-cigarette might be better suited for you. E-cigarettes are also preferable if you rely on “smoke breaks” or have other smoking-related rituals for keeping calm and clearing your head throughout the day.

Here are a few important things to consider when you’re selecting an NRT:

  • E-cigs, nicotine gum and nicotine lozenges all allow you to better control your dosage level and help keep your cravings under control.
  • There are many e-juices available that are sugar-free, which is important to consider for people who’re diabetic.
  • Frequent chewing of nicotine gum may worsen dental problems, such as joint disorders.
  • Some people possess allergies to the nicotine patch.

It’s important to understand that Nicotine replacement therapy (NRT) needs to be combined with individual willpower in order to be successful. That being said, you should begin by developing a quit program for yourself, highlighting your goals and objectives, then seek support and encouragement from your loved ones. Also, making sure that you’re using the right NRT is essential when you decide to cut traditional cigarettes from your everyday equation.

Has anyone used e-cigarettes as a nicotine replacement therapy? Tell us about your experience in the comments section below.

Repair your body when you stop smoking

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the health benefits when you quit smoking

For many smokers, the idea of quitting combustible cigarettes often comes to mind, but the battle of nicotine withdrawal and the fear of unreversed damage to the body often stops them from making this life changing decision. However, the human body is actually quite remarkable in its ability to mend the damage caused by smoking tobacco. Whether you’ve smoked for one year or 25 years, the health benefits when you quit smoking are endless. From the minute you stop, your body begins its efforts to repair the damage.

What happens to your body the moment you quit smoking?

The human body is incredibly resilient to the damage that is caused by smoking. From the moment you decide to throw out your combustible cigarettes, your body begins its rehabilitation process.

The benefits of quitting begin almost instantaneously — in as little as 20 minutes your body’s heart rate slows down, your blood pressure drops and your blood circulation improves. After 12 hours, your carbon monoxide levels return to normal, allowing you to breath better. Subsequently 24 hours later, your risk of having a heart attack decreases, your cholesterol is lowered and the dangers of developing coronary disease are drastically reduced.

What happens to your body a few months after you quit smoking?

The fact that you’ve remained tobacco-free for a few months is a huge accomplishment.

At this point, you’ll begin to feel an overwhelming amount of strength return to your body. Your risk of heart disease has now been chopped in half — this will continue to drop over time — while your lungs have been given a chance to significantly heal themselves. That extreme shortness of breath you once experienced going up stairs has now subsided and you’ll have likely overcome the worst part of your nicotine withdrawal.

Yet, if you’re finding that your strides after a few short months are seemingly slower, that’s okay because everyone’s body heals at its own pace. Many ex-smokers use the help of electronic cigarettes as a way to slowly wean themselves off of their nicotine addictions — vaping e-juices that are available in various nicotine concentrations, including zero nicotine.

What happens to your body years after you quit smoking?

The health benefits when you quit smoking become the most noticeable after years of smoke-free living.

After only 5 years, your chances of having a stroke or being diagnosed with cervical cancer are now the same as a non-smoker and you’re half as likely to develop various forms of cancers — mouth, throat, esophagus and bladder. 10 years after you quit cigarettes you’ll be half as likely to develop lung cancer, while after 15 years your chances of getting a form of heart disease are now the same as if you had never taken a puff of tobacco.

By making the choice to quit smoking, you’ll reap the benefits to your health. Your body will work hard to heal itself, owing a lot of its success to strong willpower, an endless support system, smoking cessation tools and a desire to live a smoke-free life.

Tell us about your journey to quit smoking in the comments section below.

Can I save money with a switch to vaping?

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save money by vaping

Over the years, many people have decided to switch from smoking combustible cigarettes to vaping in order to reap the endless health benefits, while others are simply tired of the smell that lingers and attaches to their clothing and hair. Yet, did you know that aside from protecting your health and smelling better, you can also save money by vaping?

How do you save money by vaping?

In the long-run, vaping has the ability to save you money. Smoking cigarettes can be very expensive, with the price of a pack varying depending on which state you reside in. The average price of smokes ranges anywhere from $6.00 in the state of Missouri to about $14.00 in the state of New York — on average that’s $10.00 a pack. Smoking combustible cigarettes is known for being a very expensive daily habit.

How does vaping compare?

Although smoking e-cigs can seem a bit more expensive upfront, you do save money by vaping. Even though the average electronic cigarette starter kit can cost up to $80.00, high-quality, brand-name’s such as Logic Power, offer the most economical vaping option at a surprisingly low price of only $9.99. The kit includes a state-of-the-art battery, a superior charger and a flavored cartomizer of your choice — with each Logic cartomizer lasting up to 400 puffs, they are equivalent to two packs of traditional cigarettes and are sold in a pack of two for $7.60. That’s the equivalent of less than $2.00 per pack of combustible cigarettes. An average savings of about $8.00 per pack. Are you ready to put savings back into your wallet?

Other ways to save money by vaping?

Now that you know that vaping offers you the ability to save money, how about you take advantage of a few more vaping budget tips? After all, the more savings the better.

  • Shop online: Unlike local vape shops, online stores have the ability to offer the best prices to their customers.
  • Quantity discounts: If you simply love a particular flavor, buy a larger supply and received added discount prices.
  • Become a member: By taking advantage of the free membership program you will save an additional 2% at the checkout.
  • Subscribe to our mailing list: Not only do you gain access to our awesome newsletters and articles, but you will also receive weekly deals right to your inbox.
  • Refer a friend: Get a 5% discount for referring a friend to shop at iloveecigs.com. 
  • Review our products: Write a review on our website explaining why you love our products and get an additional 3% off your next purchase — 25% if you leave a video review.

Are there any other ways that you save money by vaping? Tell us in the comments section below.

5 Reasons to Love the Logic Pro Vaporizer

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teen girl with shades blowing smoke from vaping

logic vape

Logic is one of the most popular choices when it comes to electronic cigarettes, but what makes this particular brand a customer favorite? Read on to find out more about the Logic Pro Vaporizer and the reasons for its excellent reputation.

Simple and Convenient Kit

One of the main reasons people choose the Logic vape is that the handy kit comes equipped with a sleek metallic vaping pen, a powerful rechargeable battery that comes fully-charged, and a USB charger. There are no complicated setups, so starting your vaping experience is quick and easy.

Sophisticated Vaporizer with Safety Mechanisms

Don’t let its simplicity lead you to question its efficacy; the Logic vape is one of the lastest, most sophisticated e-liquid vaporizers on the market. The patent-pending disposable capsule technology delivers robust flavors and thick vapor clouds with each puff.

It even features an intelligent lock system which prevents accidental activation, so you can fully control when and where you use your device. And, if you forget to shut down the battery, it automatically powers off after 10 minutes of inactivity, extending the life of your battery and e-juice.

Grab-and-Go Flavor Capsules

Many ex-smokers dread the effort and time needed to refill tanks. Not only is it a hassle, but it can also be messy and complicated. On the other hand, the pre-filled, vacuum sealed e-liquid capsules used with Logic vapes provides users with grab-and-go convenience and spillage safety, all at once.

Quality Ingredients and Strong Flavors

Logic only uses premium, three-time distilled oils in its capsules, producing rich, complex flavors that you will enjoy savoring. Whether you prefer the classic Tobacco or the refreshing Menthol flavors, the fruity Cherry or succulent Berry Mint tastes, you can rest assured knowing that you are vaping quality ingredients.

Social Responsibility

Since Logic is committed to protecting our environment, it has partnered with Call2Recycle to safely recycle its rechargeable batteries. Customers can call 1-877-2RECYCLE or visit www.call2recycle.org to find a battery drop-off location that suits them.

Why do you love your Logic vape? Tell us in the comments section below!

Vaping causes less damage to our DNA than smoking, according to new research

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3D illustration of the human body

A new study, funded by British American Tobacco, has found that vaping is not as damaging to your genes as smoking cigarettes.

Testing their first e-cig brand, Vype, the company’s team of scientists compared the effects of vaping on a person’s DNA, with the effects of smoking.

They found that inhaling the same or more nicotine from an e-cigarette causes “very little” changes to our genes compared to regular smoking.

Using a 3D model of a human airway, the scientists exposed the tissue to e-cigarette vapor and cigarette smoke, continuously for an hour in each test.

They tested two different doses of vapor, with one level matching the nicotine in cigarette smoke and the second dose containing double the amount of nicotine, reaching cells in the airway.

The scientists mapped those that were “switched on and off” at 24 hours and 48 hours, after the one-hour exposure to measure the effect on genes.

They found 873 and 205 genes were affected after 24 and 48 hours respectively in the tissue exposed to cigarette smoke, and just three and one in the tissue exposed to e-cig vapor.

The cigarette smoke caused changes to genes involved in the development of lung cancer, inflammation and fibrosis, while e-cig vapor only caused minor changes to genes involved in cell metabolism and oxidative stress processes.

“Our results clearly show that cigarette smoke has an adverse effect on cells, triggering a robust gene expression response,” said Dr James Murphy, head of reduced risk substantiation at British American Tobacco.

“However, even at equivalent or higher dose of nicotine, acute exposure to the test e-cigarette vapor has very limited impact on gene expression compared to cigarette smoke exposure – it’s a striking difference.”

Share your views on this study with us below in the comments or tweet us @ILoveEcigs