Every year, many people make the important decision to quit smoking. This decision begins a challenging journey because nicotine addiction is very strong, with some people saying that it is as addictive as heroin. In addition, there are habits which we have formed that are strongly linked to smoking. For example, smoking when bored, smoking with a coffee, smoking with a beer, smoking when stressed and many more. These habits, often subconscious, can be very difficult to break. It is estimated that most smokers try to quit two to three times before being able to get rid of the habit, sometimes using conventional nicotine replacement therapy such as patches or gum, or using alternative supports such as acupuncture.

Is there evidence that acupuncture helps with stopping smoking?

Acupuncture has been shown to assist with reducing withdrawal symptoms and cravings, with a study showing that it works particularly well with counselling. Another study, based in Hong Kong, showed that acupuncture combined with auricular acupressure could be an effective alternative treatment for smoking cessation and reduction of tobacco dependence. There are many more studies on the effects of acupuncture in assisting with smoking cessation and the evidence continues to grow.

Acupuncture and counselling

Acupuncture can reduce cravings but it can’t change habits. However, if you are highly motivated and ready to quit, consider using acupuncture with counselling to assist you with your goal. At Health in Flow Chinese Medicine, based in Melbourne CBD, with a Chinese Medicine Practitioner who is a registered counsellor, we are able to educate and counsel you through the process to improve your chances of kicking the habit for good.

Your body begins re-balancing quickly

As motivation, keep in mind that evidence shows that as soon as you quit, your body starts to repair.

“Within six hours your blood pressure becomes more stable. Within one day the level of carbon monoxide in your blood has dropped and oxygen can more easily reach your heart and muscles. Quitting is the best thing you can do for your health. It also saves you a lot of money, so you can plan for a healthier and wealthier future.”

Escape the Con, https://theconthatkills.org.au/escape-the-con

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