 |
 |
|
|
|
|
DESCRIPTION
Smoking is associated with numerous medical and health disorders including cancer, heart disease, and lung disorders. In addition, smoking causes many complications in pregnancy. The pregnant woman who smoke endangers not only herself, but also her unborn child. The infants born to mothers who smoke have more serious respiratory infections, and when they get older, these children have more ear infections, respiratory symptoms and asthma. Pregnancy is a good time for both parents to embark on a joint effort to stop smoking. The medial and economical benefits gained by the family will outweigh any inconvenience or stress caused by smoking cessation.
FERTILITY EFFECTS
Smoking in either parent may lead to problems even before pregnancy. Studies have shown that smoking can reduce fertility in both men and women and make it more difficult to conceive or cause delays in conceiving (smokers may take more than one year to conceive). Smoking is associated with higher miscarriages.
EFFECTS ON THE FETUS
The various by-products and additive in cigarettes can reduce the amount of oxygen available and inhibit the supply of nutrients to the fetus.
Nicotine slows fetal breathing and causes the arteries in the placenta and cord to contract, which in turn reduces the flow of oxygen; fetal heartbeat quickens to try to increase the oxygen supply.
POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS
Ectopic pregnancy (implantation of a fertilized egg outside of the uterus, usually in a fallopian tube).
Spontaneous abortion (miscarriage).
Intrauterine growth retardation (IUGR).
Placenta previa or abruptio placenta.
Vaginal bleeding.
Pre-term birth.
Perinatal death (those that occur just before, during, or right after birth).
POSSIBLE BIRTH DEFECTS
Cleft palate.
Cardiovascular or urogenital abnormalities.
MoonDragon's Health Information: Teratogens List
COMPLICATIONS IN INFANTS
More risk of severe respiratory disorders.
Increased risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
In general, babies of smokers aren't as healthy as babies of non-smokers.
EXPECTED OUTCOME
For discontinuing smoking:
Stopping smoking as soon as you know you are pregnant (before the fourth month) can usually substantially reduce the risks to a fetus. It doesn't matter how long you smoked before you became pregnant.
Stopping smoking can reverse the majority of other health risks, some within one year, others within 10 to 15 years.
Expect withdrawal symptoms to occur. The intensity varies from person to person.
TREATMENT
GENERAL MEASURES
The majority of smokers who quit do it on their own; others are helped by a variety of methods. No one way works for everyone.
Self-help in quitting: 1. Analyze your smoking habits by determining when and why you smoke.
2. Make up your mind to quit.
3. Choose the day and quit on that day.
4. Use any kind of substitute (gum, hard candy). Give up those activities temporarily that you associate with smoking.
5. Reward yourself for not smoking (buy something special).
6. During the first few weeks, eat plenty of low-calorie snacks; drink lots of water.
For help in quitting, check with the local office of the American Cancer Society or The American Lung Association, or call: The National Cancer Institute Information Service
(800) 4-CANCER
http://www.nci.nih.gov
Join a support group or a formal smoking cessation program. Try out other ideas such as hypnosis or acupuncture.
Concerns about quitting: 1. Weight gain - average amount is 5 to 8 pounds over 5 years; this extra weight is not a health threat.
2. Stress - know in advance it may occur, get counseling or help with stress-management.
3. Withdrawal - physical symptoms may persist for months or longer.
4. Fear of failure - relapse is common; if it happens, try again immediately. Many people have had to try more than once and by more than one method.
If quitting seems impossible, cut down on the amount smoked.
MEDICATION
The safety of prescription smoking cessation aids including nicotine gum and transdermal nicotine patches has not been established in pregnancy. There is concern about the effects of the nicotine on the fetus (it is listed as a teratogen). These aids may be prescribed for a mother-to-be who has failed a smoking cessation program and understands the risks and benefits involved. For these women and others, the effects of continued smoking on the pregnancy may be more risky than the nicotine replacement therapy.
ACTIVITY
Establish a regular prenatal exercise routine. It will help control weight, combat restlessness, help break up old routines, and make you feel better mentally and physically. Lung capacity improves when smoking is discontinued, so there is less shortness of breath when exercising or doing other physical activities.
DIET
There is no special diet associated with smoking cessation. Continue with any pregnancy diet that has been recommended. Metabolism rate tends to slow after quitting smoking and a moderate weight gain is common, but will not adversely affect a pregnancy. Low calorie snacks are recommended to replace the oral sensation of smoking.
HOLISTIC & NUTRITIONAL RECOMMENDATIONS
The nutrients and dietary suggestions below are recommended to correct probable smoking-related deficiencies and damage while you work to kick the habit. They are recommended also if you cannot avoid being a passive smoker. Consult with your health care provider or midwife before you start any nutritional and/or herbal therapy if you are pregnant or breastfeeding or if you have certain health issues.
NUTRIENTS Supplement Suggested Dosage Comments Essential Coenzyme Q-10 200 mg each twice daily Aids oxygen flow to the brain; protects heart tissue. Also acts as an antioxidant to protect cells and the lungs. CoEnzyme Q10, Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals, 60 Tabs, Co-Q10 Liquid, Trace Minerals, 4 fl. oz., Co-Q10, 100% Pure Powder, NOW Foods, 1 oz., Vegetarian Oxy-5000 Forte
(From American Biologics)2 tablets 3 times daily. A powerful antioxidant. Destroys free radicals produced in the smoke. Antioxidant Formula Supplement, All Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Tabs
Vitamin C 5,000-20,000 mg daily. See ASCORBIC ACID FLUSH. Important antioxidant that protects against cell damage. Smoking drastically depletes the body of vitamin C. Vitamin C 1000 with Bioflavonoids, Nature's Way, 100% Natural, 1000 mg, 250 Vcaps Vitamin B Complex 100 mg daily. Necessary in cellular enzyme systems often damaged in smokers. Use sublingual form. Vitamin B 100 Complex, w/Coenzyme B-2, Nature's Way 631 mg, 100 Caps, Ultimate B, Vitamin B Complex Formula, Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs Plus extra
Vitamin B-121,000 mcg twice daily Increases energy; needed for liver function. Use a lozenge or sublingual form. Vitamin B-12 Complex Liquid, NOW Foods, 2 fl. oz. (60 ml), Vitamin B-12 (Cobalamin), 50 mcg & B-9 (Folic Acid), 400 mcg, 1 fl. oz. And
Folic Acid400 mcg daily. Needed for the formation of red blood cells; important for healthy cell division and replication. Folic Acid (Vitamin B-9), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 800 mcg, 100 Caps Vitamin E Start with 200 IU daily and increase by 200 IU each month, up to 800 IU daily. One of the most powerful antioxidants, needed to protect cells and organs from damage by the smoke. Vitamin E, d-alpha Tocopherol, 400 IU, 100 Softgels, Vitamin E, Mixed Tocopherols, Unesterified, 400 IU, NOW Foods, 250 Softgels Very Important And
Natural Beta-Carotene
or
Carotenoid Complex (Betatene)
15,000 IU daily
As directed on label.Important for lung problems. Multi-Carotene Antioxidant, Nature's Way, 60 Softgels Zinc 50-80 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. Important in immune function. Use zinc gluconate lozenges or OptiZinc for best absorption. Zinc (Chelated), 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 30 mg, 100 Caps, Colloidal Silver & Zinc Lozenges, SilvaSolution, 90 Lozenges, Zinc Ionic Mineral Supplement, Fully Absorbable, 100 +/- ppm, 16 fl. oz. Helpful Body Language Super Antioxidant
(From Oxyfresh)As directed on label. Contains antioxidant vitamins and herbs to protect against free radical damage. Irwin Naturals Immune Shield, Immune System Support, 100 Gelcaps Cell Guard
(From Biotec Foods)As directed on label. Provides high levels of antioxidant enzymes for cellular health. Fulvic Mineral Complex, 32 fl. oz.
Dimethylglycine (DMG)
(Aangamik DMG from FoodScience Labs)As directed on label. Detoxifies the body and helps the body maintain high energy levels. DMG Supplement N,N Dimethyl Glycine, NOW Foods, 125 mg, 100 Caps
Pycnogenol
Or
Grape Seed ExtractAs directed on label.
As directed on label.Powerful antioxidants and free radical scavengers. Grape Seed Extract. Standardized, Nature's Way, 100 mg, 30 Caps, Grape Seed Extract, 350 mg, 90 Caps Herpanacine
(From Diamond-Herpanacine Associates)As directed on label. Detoxifies the body, balances the nervous system, and boosts immunity. L-Cysteine
And
L-Methionine
Plus
GlutathioneAs directed on label, on empty stomach. Take with water or juice. Do not take with milk. Take with 50 mg vitamin B-6 and 100 mg vitamin C for better absorption. For Glutathione: As directed on label. Potent detoxifiers that protect the lungs, liver, brain, and tissues from cigarette smoke.
Glutathione protects the liver. L-Cysteine HCL, w/ Vitamin B-6 & C, Vegetarian, NOW Foods, 500 mg, 100 Tabs, L-Methionine, 500 mg Plus B-6, 10 mg, 100 Caps, L-Glutathione, 250 mg, 60 CapsMaitake 1,000-4,000 mg daily. Inhibits carcinogenesis and protects against metastasis through the lungs. Maitake Full Spectrum Extract, 300 mg, 90 Vcaps, Maitake Mushroom Powder, 100% Organic, 4 oz., Maitake Mushroom Whole, Certified Organic, 4 oz, Dry Weight, Maitake Mushroom Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz. Multi-Vitamin & Mineral Complex
With
SeleniumAs directed on label.
200 mcg daily.Necessary for immune function.
Helps to prevent cell damage. Multi-Vitamin Supplement, 100% Natural, Nature's Way, 100 Tabs, Multi-Vitamin & Multi-Mineral with Iron & Selenium, Nature's Way, 100 Caps, Alive, Whole Food Energizer Multi-Vitamin & Mineral with Naturally Occurring Iron (No Iron Added), Nature's Way, 90 TabsRaw Thymus Glandular As directed on label. A glandular that improves immune function. Thymus Organic Glandular (Hypoallergenic), Allergy Research Group, Nutricology, 75 Caps
HERBS
Cayenne (capsicum) desensitizes respiratory tract cells to irritants from cigarette smoke.
Catnip, Hops, Lobelia, Skullcap, and/or Valerian Root can be used to help reduce the nervousness and anxiety that may accompany nicotine withdrawal. Caution: Do not take Lobelia internally on an ongoing basis.
Dandelion root and Silymarin (Milk Thistle Extract) protect the liver against harmful toxins from cigarette smoke.
Ginger causes perspiration, which helps the body to shed some of the poisons ingested through smoking. It also soothes stomach irritation occasional experienced with the use of Cayenne or Lobelia.
Slippery Elm relieves lung congestion and coughs.
Note: Herbs, in bulk form, may be purchased through Mountain Rose Herbs. Herbal supplements may be available through HerbalRemedies.com. See Links below for these suppliers.
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
DIETARY RECOMMENDATIONS & SUGGESTIONS
Consume more asparagus, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, cauliflower, spinach, sweet potatoes, and turnips. Eat plenty of grains, nuts, seeds, and unpolished brown rice. Millet cereal is a good source of protein. Eat wheat, oat, and bran. Also consume yellow and deep-orange vegetables such as carrots, pumpkin, squash, and yams. Apples, berries, Brazil nuts, cantaloupe, cherries, grapes, legume (including chickpeas, lentils, and red beans), and plums are also helpful.
Eat onions and fresh garlic (lots of them) or you can use garlic in supplement form if you need to, but I feel fresh garlic has much better healing properties. Alcohol and substance abuse specialists sometimes recommend a supervised "intervention" to force an alcoholic into admitting the problem and entering treatment. Psychological techniques have been developed and refined over the past few years, which seems to have increased the success rate among alcoholics seeking to recover and remain sober. Such interventions are delicate situations and should be undertaken under the supervision of a trained professional. Check into local alcohol rehabilitation services available in your region, if you are interested in this type of approach to alcoholism.
Cook all sprouts slightly except for alfalfa sprouts, which should be eaten raw.
Do not consume any junk foods, processed refined foods, saturated fats, salt, sugar, or white flour. Instead of salt, use a kelp or potassium substitute. If you must, use a small amount of black strap molasses or pure maple syrup as a natural sweetener in place of sugar. Use whole wheat or rye instead of white flour. Eliminate alcohol, coffee, and all teas except for herbal teas.
Do not eat any animal products except for broiled fish (up to 3 servings per week). Never eat luncheon meat, hot dogs, or smoked or cured meats. Limit you consumption of dairy products to a little low-fat yogurt, kefir, or raw cheese on an occasional basis.
Do not eat any peanuts. Limit, but do not eliminate altogether, your intake of soybean products; they contain enzyme inhibitors.
Drink spring or steam-distilled water only.
To accelerate toxin elimination, see FASTING and follow the program. Many people have been successful in the quest to stop smoking by going on a fast using only live juices and quality steam-distilled water. A live juice fast can quickly remove nicotine and other damaging chemical from the body. Adhering to a five-day live juice and cleansing fast can have amazing results. See JUICING for more information about this subject.
There are several natural products on the market that may help you deal with withdrawal symptoms, such as Smoking Withdrawal from Natra-Bio Homeopathic.
There are many different strategies for overcoming smoking dependency. The secret to success may be finding the approach that is right for you. No If's, And's or Butts, The Smoker's Guide to Quitting by Harlan M. Krumholz and Robert H. Phillips (Avery Publishing Group, 1993), is a comprehensive and detailed guide to the many and varied strategies that have helped people to break the smoking habit.
There are also a number of organizations that can provide valuable information and programs to help you quit smoking. Two of the most highly recommended are:
American Cancer Society
1599 Clifton Road
Atlanta, GA 30329
800-ACS-2345 or 404-320-3333
www.cancer.org
American Lung Association
61 Broadway, 6th Floor
New York, NY 10006
800-LUNG-USA or 212-315-8700
www.lungusa.org
Smokers Rescue, 7-Day Stop Smoking System
The Smokers Rescue, 7-Day Stop Smoking System helps people put away the physical, psychological, and emotional challenges of quitting. These natural supplements and aromatherapy help reduce smoke cravings, calm nerves, and empower smokers with the confidence to get away smoke-free. Compares to 7 Day Smoke Away. Works against cigarettes, cigars, chew, and snuff for men and women.We Quit - Herbal Stop Smoking Patch, 30 per box (Nicotine Free Patch to Help Stop Smoking)
The all natural, all herbal ingredients contained in the topical patch are absorbed onto the skin for 24 hours a day. The topical patch works 2 to 3 times faster than a pill. This method provides time-released consistency and there is no need to think about when to take a pill. It is a faster, more convenient and more effective way to break free from nicotine. A single topical patch placed on the skin is hard at work 24 hours a day allowing you to withdraw from nicotine without the use of nicotine, Many other products ask you to stop smoking by continuing to ingest nicotine or some other drug, which continues to foster positive associations with your nicotine addiction. We Quit anti-smoking topical patch seeks to break those associations immediately with an all natural herbal formula. The formula has been formulated with herbs chosen for their unique effects and for optimum potency.Stopsmoking Herbal Tea, 20 Tea Bags
Stopsmoking Herbal Tea is made of licorice, mentha (peppermint) with an excellent flavor. Grown on the pollution-free high plateau of northwest China, they contain glycyrrhizic acid, triterpenoid saponins, flavonoid, amino acids, mint oil, menthone, etc. Extensively used in traditional Chinese medicine for its antitussive, expectorant and other qualities to clear respiratory ducts, stop coughing, and to correct addictive behavior. It is a detoxifier and system cleanser.Stop Craving Formula Tincture, 100% Organic, 2 fl. oz.
This formula helps people move through the withdrawal symptoms from addictions such as drugs, alcohol, smoking, and foods.Smoke Free, Homeopathic Formula, Boericke & Tafel, 100 Tabs
Smoke Free Tablets are a homeopathic combination to help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms from cigarette smoking. Smoke Free Naturally.Smoke Less Aromatherapy Inhaler with Lemon, Pine & Eucalyptus
The pure essential oils used in the Smoke Less Scent Inhaler were selected by Earth Solutions specifically for their known benefits in helping to resist the urge to smoke, making it easier for you to quit smoking.Lobelia Herb, Nature's Way, 425 mg, 100 Caps
Lobelia (Lobelia inflata) often called Asthma weed or Puke weed has been used for centuries as a mild expectorant. The herb is named after botanist Matthias de Lobel who died in London in 1616. It has been used in preparations designed to lessen one's desire for nicotine. Externally it is used as an infusion of Lobelia can be used to treat ophthalmic disorders, and the tincture is used as a topical for sprains, bruises, or skin diseases. It has been suggested that Lobelia may reduce cravings and nervousness associated with smoking withdrawal.Ultimate Respiratory Cleanse with Mullein, Nature's Secret, 60 Tabs
The harmful effects of air pollution, industrial gases and airborne toxins on our respiratory systems is well known. Fortunately, there's Ultimate Respiratory Cleanse by Nature's Secret, a powerful, synergistic herbal blend that will cleanse, strengthen and rejuvenate the entire respiratory system. This formula also provides unique nourishment specifically for the immune system.Colloidal Silver Salve, SilvaSolution - 2 oz.
Lobelia has been used as an expectorant for bronchitis. It has also been used to lessen the effects of epilepsy, diphtheria, and tonsillitis. The oil has been a valuable resource in treating tetanus. Lobelia is a sedative. Externally, an infusion of Lobelia can be used to treat ophthalmic disorders, and the tincture is used as a topical for sprains, bruises, or skin diseases. It has been suggested that Lobelia may reduce cravings and nervousness associated with smoking withdrawal.Relaxing Blend Tea with Valerian & Chamomile, 20 Tea Bags
This soothing blend of Valerian with Chamomile, Valerian, Passion Flower and other herbs, will help you relax and put your worries to rest.Colon & Liver Cleanser Organic, 16 fl. oz.
CAC liquid is a colon and liver cleanser and detoxifier as well as a blood cleanser that serves to regulate the bowel movements so that the stool is so soft it breaks up into a cloud. Use of this cleansing tea full of cleansing herbs has many additional benefits; Improves overall digestion; Strengthens the immunity; Helps to prevent cancer; Makes the skin more emollient and flexible: Clears the eyes; And provides an overall tonic effect on the body.
NOTIFY YOUR MIDWIFE OR HEALTH CARE PROVIDER IF...
You or a family member is a cigarette smoker and is pregnant or wants to become pregnant and needs help to quit smoking.
HELPFUL RELATED MOONDRAGON LINKS
SMOKING RELATED LINKS
THERAPY LINKS
DISORDER LINKS
NUTRITION LINKS
Return To The Top Of The Document
HELPFUL PRODUCTS & FURTHER EDUCATION
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 2nd Edition
Prescription for Nutritional Healing: The A-To-Z Guide To Supplements
-- by Phyllis A. Balch, James F. Balch - 4th Edition
Prescription for Herbal Healing: The A-To-Z Reference To Common Disorders
-- by Phyllis A. Balch
The Complete Guide to Natural Healing
This is only a small sample of educational materials and products available through Amazon.com. Use the search box provided below to search for a particular item.
HERBS, OILS, & SUPPLIES
Mountain Rose Bulk Herbs
Mountain Rose Aromatherapy Oils
Click Here To Visit Herbal Remedies Product Page
A Source For Medicinal & Ritual Herbs & Supplies
Aphrodisiacs Aromatherapy Bath & Body Care Bulk Herbs By The Pound Capsules, Tablets & Extracts Chinese Herbals Electronics Extracts First Aid Products Food Products, Mixes, Seeds, Snacks & More! Hair Care Products & Supplies Herbs & Oils, Kilo & Ton Hydroponics & Gardening Kava Products Kitchen & Housewares Mushrooms Musical Instruments Oral Care & Dental Products PC & IT - Computer Supplies & Assessories Skin Care, Cosmetics, & Gift Sets Smokes, Seeds, Cacti Spices, Salts, Sweeteners, & Seasonings Sports, Toys & Games Sweets, Candy, Chips & Snacks Stimulants Sedatives Teas & Coffees
Shaman Shop Home Page
