Nicotine is the chemical in cigarettes that makes it so hard to quit smoking. The nicotine inhaled when smoking causes a release of epinephrine, raising the heart rate and blood pressure, and produces that feeling of calm and relaxation. Quitting smoking is one of the hardest things a person can do because of this chemical. These are a number of foods that will counteract the effects of cigarettes and support the body as you quit smoking.
Broccoli
Broccoli contains many properties which counteract the effects of smoking in different parts of the body. It has vitamin C to boost the immune system, calcium to support bone health, and contains minerals like selenium to help prevent cancer.
Carrots
Nicotine makes it harder to see at night over time, and the adrenaline it releases when smoking reduces peripheral vision. The beta-carotene and vitamin A found in carrots has been known to promote healthy eyesight.
Garlic
Garlic contains antioxidants and minerals that help cleanse toxins like nicotine from the body. Garlic also has properties that support bone health, heart health, and prevent cancer.
Milk
Studies out of Duke University have shown that drinking milk before smoking makes cigarettes taste terrible, which can help people quit smoking by lowering cravings. Plus, nicotine has been shown to weaken bones over time, and milk is full of calcium and vitamin D to support healthy bones.
Oranges
Smoking lowers the body’s levels of immune-boosting vitamin C. Eating oranges will help replenish the body’s vitamin C and support the immune system.
Pomegranate Juice
Nicotine increases the heart rate and raises the blood pressure, which can lead to heart disease and stroke later on in life. The acids in pomegranate juice support heart health by lowering both blood pressure and cholesterol.
Water
Drinking plenty of water is one of the first steps to living a healthier life. Smoking causes dehydration, so make sure to drink a lot of fluids to rehydrate and flush toxins like nicotine from the body.
Many healthy foods can help flush nicotine from the body and counteract the effects of the smoking. Adding any of these foods to your diet will help support your overall health and help you quit smoking.
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Sources: [Authority Nutrition, Food Facts, How Stuff Works, Organic Facts, Quit Tobacco, Smart Cooky, WebMD]
