Smokers around the world today found themselves in complete shock to learn that eating a healthy diet may help them quit smoking. Seriously.
The connection between the two is not what one would expect. Certain items enhance the taste of cigarettes – such as alcohol, caffeinated beverages, and meat. Dairy products, vegetables, and fruit may worsen the taste for many people.
Now, don’t try cheating by eating healthy and not giving up on the cigarettes.
Smokers of menthol cigarettes were less likely to report that any foods or beverages altered the taste of cigarettes, a finding that suggests menthol covers up bad tastes stemming from items consumed with cigarettes, the researchers said.
Remember, at the end of the day, it is entirely up to the individual to make the decision to quit. If that doesn’t happen, nothing will work.
“Every deterrent treatment requires willpower,” Rose said. “This approach alone will not work. It may make cigarettes less pleasurable, but ultimately, if a person is craving a cigarette, he will start smoking again.”
Rose recommends that diet modifications be used in combination with standard nicotine replacement therapy, such as the nicotine patch and nicotine gum, to help with withdrawal.
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