6 Tips for Enjoying Your Coffee — Without a Cigarette

Many smokers are used to smoking when drinking coffee or tea. When you quit smoking, you don't have give up your favorite warm beverage.

What to Expect:

• Expect that your morning coffee will not taste the same without a cigarette.
• Expect to feel a strong urge to reach for a cigarette while drinking coffee or tea.

What to Do:

• If you used to smoke while drinking coffee or tea, tell people you have quit so they won't offer you a cigarette.
• Between sips of coffee or tea, take deep breaths to inhale the aroma. Breathe in deeply and slowly, while you count to five. Breathe out slowly, counting to five again.
• Try switching to decaffeinated coffee for a while, particularly if quitting has made you irritable or nervous.
• Try nibbling on healthy foods to keep your hands busy while you drink coffee or tea.
• As you drink your coffee, get out a scratch pad and doodle or make plans for the day.
• If the urge to smoke is very strong, drink your coffee or tea faster than usual and then change activities or rooms.