Know why: quit smoking

Congratulations. Deciding to quit smoking is the first milestone on the journey to a better, healthier life. Aside from its numerous health benefits, the best part about quitting smoking is that you will see improvements from the moment you stop smoking. Don’t believe us? Just look at how your body heals itself, from the moment you snuff out that last cigarette. 

Repair, restore and rejuvenate 

After 20 minutes: 

Your heart rate will start to lower and your blood pressure will drop. Normal blood pressure means you have a much lower risk of heart disease or stroke. 

After 12 hours: 

Your body’s carbon monoxide levels will drop to normal, which also lowers your chances of contracting cardiovascular risks like angina and heart attacks. 

After two to 12 weeks: 

Within three months, your blood circulation will resume its normal function. Furthermore, your lungs will feel clearer, allowing you to be more active and do more for longer, without wheezing like an old taxi. 

After one to nine months: 

Within nine months after quitting, the cilia (the tiny hair-like structure that moves mucus out of your lungs) will resume its proper functions, increasing the body’s ability to handle mucus, clean the lungs and reduce the risk of infection. This means that you will experience less coughing fits, even during strenuous exercise! 

After one year:

This time next year – if you’ve reached this milestone smoke-free – the chances of you suffering from coronary heart disease will be halved. This means that the next time you go hiking with your family, you will be right next to them all the way to the summit! 

After five years:

If you’ve managed to go five years living a smoke-free life, the chances of you suffering from cancer of the mouth, throat, oesophagus and bladder are halved. 

After 10 years:

Your body’s recuperative powers are amazing. A decade from now and it will still be helping you get healthier. Go ten years without a cigarette and the risk of terminal lung cancer is half that of a smoker. 

Take care of your body and your body will take care of you. This means that you can breathe easy knowing that you can spend more quality time with the people that matter the most to you. If you’re inspired, see how to quit smoking with these easy, effective steps.

Sources:

• Blood pressure uk
• Healthline