Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do for your health. ArkansasMatters.com and KARK 4 have put together several ways that quitting smoking can greatly benefit your health.

Health Benefits to Quitting Smoking:

• Your blood pressure will improve and perhaps even drop back down to normal
• The levels of a toxic gas called carbon monoxide in your blood stream decreases by 50% and oxygen levels return to normal
• Your chances of a heart attack will decrease
• In 48 hours you body will be free of nicotine
• You will be able to taste and smell better because these senses will return to a normal level
• Your energy levels will increase and your bronchial tubes will begin to relax
• Circulation will increase and will continue to improve over time
• Lung capacity improves and this helps decrease coughs, wheezing and breathing problems
• Your risk of having a stroke will return to that of a non-smoker
• Quitting smoking improves personal appearance.
• Your chances of getting cancer will decrease

These are just a few reasons to quit smoking. Of course, there are many others.

As we begin a new year, make quitting smoking a part of becoming a new you for 2009.