Helping you kick smoking.

• Position: Your Life - Five tips to help individuals quit smoking - Brief Article

Breaking a bad habit, especially an addictive one, usually is extremely difficult. Still, it can be done. Here are five tips to help individuals quit smoking from the Iowa Tobacco Research Center, Iowa City.

1. Stay motivated. Remind yourself every day why you are quitting; picture yourself as a nonsmoker; avoid situations that you connect with smoking.

2. Have a plan to fight cravings. Drink plenty of fluids, especially water; find activities to keep you busy (take a walk, clean house, get a hobby); always have something in your mouth (chewing gum, a healthy snack such as vegetables or air-popped popcorn, or sugar-free hard candy).

3. Reduce stress. Exercise; do some deep breathing; talk to a supportive friend or family member.

4. If you slip, do not give up. Give...