Quitting smoking can be the first step in creating a healthy new lifestyle for you and your family. Smoking cessation is the most important measure you can take to protect the health of your lungs, heart, brain and bones. Once you've eliminated tobacco from your life, you'll find that you have more physical energy, more stamina and more enthusiasm for family activities.Nicotine, the active chemical in cigarettes, is highly addictive. Quitting smoking may be one of the most difficult challenges you ever face. However, once you and your family are enjoying an active lifestyle, exercising regularly and eating nutritious foods, you'll realize that your hard work was well worth the effort.Health Risks of Secondhand SmokeEven if only one person in a household smokes, the effects of this habit can harm an entire family. Secondhand cigarette smoke increases the risk of lung cancer, Heart disease and stroke, even in adults who have never used tobacco. Children and infants are especially vulnerable to the effects of secondhand smoke and may develop Asthma and have frequent respiratory or ear infections.Nicotine restricts blood circulation, limiting blood flow to the heart, lungs and brain and depriving you and your family of energy. The chemical additives in cigarette smoke can irritate your family's lungs, causing chronic coughs and colds. Once your home is smoke-free, you'll see an increase in your family's energy level. Your children may have fewer sick days at school and have more stamina for sports and outdoor activities.Tips for Quitting SmokingToday, you have more options than ever to help you quit smoking. Nicotine replacement products, which include transdermal patches, gum or lozenges that contain a controlled dose of nicotine, allows you to wean yourself off the chemical at a gradual pace. Some smokers prefer to quit without nicotine replacement, using the help of a support group or smoking cessation coach. Many areas of the country have free programs that offer telephone coaching and nicotine replacement products.Before you quit, see your doctor for a medical evaluation and advice on smoking cessation programs. Some smokers find that it's easier to quit with the help of prescription medications that reduce anxiety while curbing the urge to smoke. Set a quit date and involve your whole family in clearing the house of tobacco products so you can start your healthy new lifestyle with a clean, smoke-free home.