What To Expect When You Quit Dipping
So you want to quit dipping and you would like to know what to expect when you do. We’re not going to pull any punches around here, it’s tough. That’s why we’re all here. This timeline has been put together over the years with the input of THOUSANDS of quitters. It has been shown to be remarkably accurate from the time you STOP USING NICOTINE.
Days 1 through 3 – Pure hell. You will walk in the fog. Nothing will seem real. Your brain is wondering where the hell its fix is and it is going to punish you until you come up with it. 72 hours, that’s all you need to get the nicotine out of your system. This is where you start to deal with the physical withdrawal associated with quitting dip. Drink lots of water. Read, post, read and post. Don’t take your anger out on your loved ones. We always tell everyone………Make this quit about YOU. If you quit for your wife, girlfriend, boyfriend, kids, mommy or daddy, you will resent them during this period. Quit for yourself and come in here to rant. Yell at us. Bitch at us. We can take it. We’ve been there.
Days 4 through 20 – Here comes the mind games. The nicotine is out of your system now. You will still have some physical things to deal with.
- Cravings
- Irritability
- Insomnia
- Fatigue
- Inability to Concentrate
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Constipation, gas, stomach pain
- Dry mouth
- Sore tongue and/or gums
Yep, you have this to look forward to. Your brain is rewiring itself. It isn’t used to being in an oxygen rich environment. Your body is responding in kind. Everything is a mind game now. All the cravings you have are actually due to triggers. Triggers are events where you are in a situation you would normally dip in. Mowing the grass, playing poker online, playing golf, working on the car………you get the picture. Keep drinking water, use seeds, the fake stuff, whatever you need to keep the dip out of your mouth. Remember, oral fixation is part of our habit, something you will eventually need to break. For now though, use all the tools you have.
Days 20 – 50 – You’re winning. Life isn’t great, but you probably had a couple of nights where you actually got some sleep. You might notice you’re going to bed earlier than you normally do. Not staying up to get in that last dip. You may notice some sores in your mouth. You’re thinking, “great, I quit dipping and now I have cancer.” You almost certainly don’t. Your mouth is healing itself. Tiny ulcers you’ve had for a long time are healing. We recommend you visit your dentist around the 30 day mark. Don’t be a pansy, just do it. He or she will be very supportive and they can explain the sores much better than we can. Don’t let your guard down. Don’t go out drinking with the fellas or the girls. We also recommend that you don’t drink for at least the first 50 days. Drinking is a huge trigger event and it weakens your resolve.
Days 50 – 70 – Cruise control. Life is really good. You still think about it, but this is good stuff here. Some people may suffer anxiety attacks during or a little before this stage. Some doctors say we dipped to relieve anxiety anyway. Some people can push right through this, others need a little help. Talk to your doctor before you quit or immediately after you quit. They will know what to do. Some give Wellbutrin or Lexapro. Lots of people in the support community take or have taken these medicines and can help you with the affects. Don’t wait till you get to this stage of the game to talk to a doctor. You’ll cruise through this stage much easier if you know how to take care of the anxiety or at least know it’s coming.
Days 70 – 90 – Late term craves, the doldrums, the blahs, the blues. Some people end up feeling like they are right back at day 1. The fog, the haze, the craves. It can be a tough time. You need to let people in your group know this is happening. Time to circle the wagons to get through it. It usually only lasts a few days. Fight through this and make sure your order your HOF Knife or Coin. Here are a couple of articles about this time period which we refer to as “The Funk”
Days 90 – HOF – Houston, resume the countdown. Enjoy the hell out of these last 10 days. You will be celebrating with your group as you all enter the HOF. It is a great feeling and an accomplishment you should not take lightly. Do something special for yourself and your family. They put up with your sorry ass for the last 90 days and they deserve something too.
100+ Days – Stay vigilant. Use the tools you have, to continue beating back any cravings or urges. You will still experience dip dreams and longings, but you are fully qualified to beat them down. Continue to post roll with your group. Get into the newer groups and help somebody out. Pass it along. Live the dream.
KB,
thought I would join in here. I was a 2-3 can of copenhagen long cut a week since 1991. My wife of 9 years has always thought it was just nasty. Anyways, i have two little girls who are 7 and 3. Both of them ask me why I dip.. I began to realize by them asking me(the little one goes “dada, wha do do dat”,well….. why do I? And for so long? I am 41 and with age, dipping has even made my gut all nasty when I dip too…. beers probably don’t help either but hey.. I throw a dip in and my gut just fights back.
Anyways, like most of the nation I made a NY resolution to quit. First time I ever really tried. Dad always told me to write something down if you intend on doing it, so I did. Wrote out a post it note that says “you buy another can, you lose the game” and stuck it on my dash board of my truck.
Got rid of any dip in the house so it was now up to me..The game: if I walk into a gas station and ask the clerk for a can of dip then I personally have defeated myself and lost the game. I just flat out got sick and tired of dipping.
Well the first 2 weeks were challenging. Got really nasty to my wife a few times which prompted a family counselling session next week. BUT… today is day 28 and I feel sooooooo much better. Have no more desire to dip. It’s even not a part of my thought proccess. I don’t have any type of oral fixation issues and crave nothing. I hope that continues because I feel a bit of confidence that I have made headway in doing something for myself.
Good luck everyone….. you can do it. For those wondering… the end of the second week is when you are really climbing out of the habit. Just try to be nice to others while quitting..
KB
Thanks JP, but no worries on the candy. I don’t have that much of it and I stay in the gym six days a week… Just hope I am on the road to freedom…
Stacy
Day 11
You’re doing awesome Stcay keep up the fight! And working out is the best thing you can do to get through this “fog” you’ll face for the first 30-40 days….hell you’re already a quarter of the way there. Continue to vent, brag, tell us how you’re doing. Even us that are ahead of you want to see you succeed….you definitely have the right attitude to kick this habits ass!
-JP
Day #198
Stacy great job dude. You’ve accomplished something few people have been able to do. Its awesome your going to the gym that’s a great way to release endorphins the good old natural way. Your brain will retrain soon enough. Just hang in there man . Do whatever you can to stay quit even if its to drop and do 20 pushups or something. I wouldn’t even worry about eating at this point I ate a lot the first couple of weeks until I got over the hump. The weight will come back off eventually!
Rick
Day 72
Day 10 and hanging in there like a hair in a biscuit. Thank God for tooth picks. They have been my best friend during this period of no tobacco. Still want a dip, but I just try to put it out of my mind and do something else. Been tough, but I am going to do this…… To the new ones trying to quit. Chew on a straw or tooth pick. That seems to help me a lot. Also, get you some fireballs candy and keep popping them. They help also. Good luck.
Stacy
Day 10
Congrats on 10 days of Freedom Stacy. Careful with the candy though, I always felt tobacco was not only an anxiety killer, but also an appetite suppressant. Depending on what you use to kill that oral fixation….it might show up on the weight scale. I will say though…gaining a few pounds is much better than catching some type of cancer from chewing tobacco. Just be careful with it. Great job at reaching 10 days free of tobaaco. At this rate you’ll soon be joing the 100 day club. We’re all pulling for you, keep quit!
-JP Day #197
Hey Stacy congrats on day 10+!! I think we have the same quit date, I am on day 14 and also use candy to help fight off the urges. I agree with JAYP, so I use sugar free jolly ranchers and they work for me and I don’t have to go buy bigger clothes. Keep it up I know it is tough but I think it is already getting a little easier..except for drinking a beer, still cant do that without loosing my “need a chew” mind lol
Just threw my can away. Scary sores in the cheek lining. Day one tomorrow.
OK today is your day one!! Are you with us? I told myself tomorrow would be day one about a million times. do not buy a can today join us instead! come in here and tell us how much it sucks to not be using tobacco. If you can hang with it in a couple weeks you’ll be telling us how awesome it is not to be using tobacco. And I hear you about the sores in the cheek thing. I probably had a Sore on every spot on my lower lips and gums at one time or another. You can do it.
Rick
Day 71
Brian
Congrats on your decision to quit. Steve is right n, the first few days are total hell, but keep posting, let us know you made it to day 2. You goal is get past each day, and I will be here to celebrate your first week.
Use fake stuff, I stayed away from seeds because of the salt, so my oral fix was carrots… I ate them all the time, it just worked for me, use whatever it takes, n nicotine, stay focused on your cold turkey goal.
There are many veterans here, some quitters that are a few weeks ahead of you, and as you see at the end of our post, what day we are at, use us in your battle.
Jeff
168
Day 1 for me it’s not like everyone else who has been off for a while I just feel like I need it in my system to fight depression and get my mind off of things. I have tried quitting before but it seems like it’s all I resort to which I guess is normal . I figure this site I can add updates and see progress which might keep me sane on my journey of quitting . Thanks for posting this.
Day 1
Brian
Brian you’re in the right place! It’s day 1 so you’re probably in hell, you will be there for a few days. What I found to be the best thing during the early days were the gym, fake dip and seeds. I used smokey mountain to replace my kodiak addiction. Anxiety is a typical side effect, it was for me at least. When was the last time you were at the dr? Is she aware you’re quitting? I talked to my doc before quitting, gave me some xanax to use, I think just having it there helped since I only used 3 pills.
Exercise man! Get a craving, do some burpees til it’s gone!
Keep us posted
Steve
Day 84
Hey brother you got this man. Listen to these guys they know what’s up. Once you put it down for good just walk away because if use again you start the process all over. It all comes down to how bad you want it because there’s noceasy way to quit nicotine use. Come in here and yell if you have to!!!!
Rick
Day 70
Stacy! Awesome one week! Keep up the fight, let’s get to Two weeks!
Jeff
166
Day 7: Still quit. A friend of mine was dipping around me today and when I saw him open that can, which by the way was my brand, I said to myself, well, here is a real test. He reached in and got a big dip and loaded that gum up. All I could do was stand there and watch. That dip looked like a big ol steak, but I held to my guns and resisted. We finished our conversation and I moved on. Kinda made me feel proud not to give in by asking for a small pinch. He did not know I had quit and I never said anything to him, so I left it at that. As I walked away, I said to myself that I have been tobacco free for one week today and I was not going to blow that. Bottom line, I was proud of myself for not giving into temptation. Day 8, here I come.
Stacy congrats on one week that is awesome, it’s the toughest week! But keep your guard up the next few weeks are no walk in the park but easier.
Sounds like you’re doing great even in the face of tough tests, keep it up. In the near future you will sleep again (well from the dip, I probably wouldn’t sleep well in Afghanistan). And you will be less irritated, it all passes I didn’t think it would but it did.
Steve
Day 85
Sorry day 84
Great seeing a bunch of new posts from new quitters here. I always judge how serious someone’s quit is, on how frequently they’re visiting and letting us all know how they’re doing. What quitters like me gain from the new quitters, is reinforcement that I don’t want to go back. Jeff mentions this above, he was right there during the early parts of my quit. Once you experience that 30-40 days of “fog”…you tell yourself no more. When I see the struggles of the new quitters, it puts me right back there, at the beginning. What I want to do for the new guys and the ones trying to make it to the first 100 day mark is let you know there is an easier life without tobacco when you get here. It actually gets much easier after that fog lifts. And if you can make it to post-fog, you’ll be well on your way to a successful quit. I pledged I would hang around here after the 100 day mark to try helping new quitters successfully quit..I did it…you can too!
-JP Day#194
Hi my name is Dylan. I’m on day 9. Work is a huge trigger for me. I actually found a whole can in my locker today. I literally flushed it’s contents down the toliet cause I was afraid I’d go into the trash through the night. Nasty I know. So I work 12 hour shift and need help on something to do to occupy my time since I’m not dipping any help would be appreciated
Day 6 and still quit. @ Steve, I am working in Afghanistan and things are very limited here. So….. Tomorrow will be a week. I think if I made it this far, I can do this. It is tough, but I am going to make it. Will say that I agree with other comments here about not being able to sleep or waking up, getting irritated, or having very strong cravings to start back dipping. Looking forward, I am proud I did this and I hope I stay quit…. to all the others trying to quit, hang in there. You can do this!
My thoughts after 165 days into my quit.
I don’t want to forget days 1-30, the sweats, the fog, anxiety, no sleep, hard craves, pissed off. I don’t want to ever go thru that again!
Meeting some awesome dudes, and watching how new quitters fight the battle, and the cycle of new quitters being helped by veterans. This is one thing that is great, I remember when I was in the midst of fighting the nic bitch, but I wasn’t alone, jayp, shiva and DDD, was with me. Then it was my turn to help the new quitters, Rick came here and has just kicked some ass, Steve is also fighting and both are helping the new quitters!
It’s amazing that no matter what part of the country, who are favorite teams are, lawyers, factory workers, small business owners, we are all brothers in the same path.
If you are just starting, I for one will be here with you… Post and rant.
If you cave, it’s ok, just try again.. We want you to succeed and kick ass
Jeff
165
Day 19, thankful for all the posts and articles that can be read. Keep telling myself how stupid I’ve been for the past 4 years after quiting for 15 yrs. funny thing is I bought a tin everyday and paid no mind to the warning on the can….now 19 days into the quit and all I see in my head is that warning label and wonder if I waited to long to stop. The unknown of if things that I feel are normal and part of the healing process or something more can eat at you which of course creates anxiety. Keep pressing on its a daily fight worth fighting!
Hey All. Day 5 here for me not having a dip and I could put a whole can in my mouth right now. Man, this is rough. Glad I found this website so I can read others posts on the subject. That really helps me and my spirit to stay quit and not give up….. Where I am in the world right now does not give me many options as for meds etc. to help me quit so it is pretty much COLD TURKEY. Man, what a hell of time to quit but I can do this. Like Rob said, it is nice to know that I am not alone in this endeavor….. Hanging tough!!!!
Hey Stacy you are far from alone, we are here for you. We all felt the same way on day 5 if you put a tin in our face we probably would’ve devoured it. It gets easier so stay strong. Out of curiosity, where is the world are you?
Steve
Day 83
Been 4 days since I quit dipping, and let me tell you. One of the toughest things I have ever done! Been dipping for 19 years and to tell you the truth, I love dipping. Never had any problems while dipping. Decided to kick the habit, so here I am, about to go crazy out of my mind wanting a dip. I have read all of above comments, so it seems what I am going through right now is normal. Does not make it any better, but I am determined to do this and to see it through. Keeping tooth picks in my mouth to chew on seems to help take my mind off of wanting a dip, but it is still hard. Anyway, just wanted to chime in and put my two cents worth in and say thank you to all comments offering support and help to others trying to quit. To all that is trying to quit, we got this. Just don’t give up!
I know the feeling man. It has been 6 days for me. I tried quitting cold turkey last summer and only lasted a week. My doctor has been trying to gete to quit for a couple years. I finally took her up on a prescription for chantix, only to find out my insurance didn’t cover it. She then prescribed me Wellbutrin, which is an antidepressant. I was skeptical at its effects, but it is completely different feeling this time quitting. Not near the edge I had quitting cold turkey. Keep up the fight, and maybe check with your doctor about the Wellbutrin. It has really helped me.
I’m on day 4 myself. Turned 40 on Sunday and decided since I dipped virtually every single day of my 20’s and 30’s that I wanted to start my 40’s off without dip. Mostly though, my heart has started to break watching my 9 year old son “spit” whenever we play catch, fly rockets, etc…that’s my doing, my responsibility…now I must do something to reverse that trend so that he doesn’t start himself. So I’m 4 days into quitting cold turkey and taking it one day at a time. Nice to know I’m not alone…best of luck to all of you trying to quit…LET’S DO THIS!!!
Rob keep using the young lad as motivation. You don’t want him to have to start and go through what you are right now. I quit cold 2 weeks ago after chewing for the majority of the last 30 years. 2 weeks have not been easy but one day at a time for now. I have not slept very good for a week or so but some day I will sleep normal again. I always said if they took Copenhagen off the market I could quit. I can’t chew anything else because they are too sweet. I tried the smokey mountain fake chew but find it too sweet. Have not looked for anything else.
I am on day 5, but I am getting some help with Chantix. This stuff has helped a lot. I have tried cold turkey with ZERO success. I have chewed for about 28 years, so any help is welcome. A buddy if mine is doing this with me so that helps. I really need this time to be my quit. I am reaching out everywhere for help with a promise to be there for rookies once I get on the other side of this.
Hi Jim, welcome to the board. We are all here to hear your rants, and to offer any advice possible. You have about 3 years more dipping than I did at my quit (I chewed for 25 years). I quit cold turkey from nicotine. I am not going to lie, it was one of the toughest things I did so far in my 40 years of life. I did and currently still do, use some of the fake dips…but NO nicotine! I also use sunflower seeds as well. Anything to fix the oral fixation that I was so accustomed to for those 25 years. You can do this man, you just need to “sack-up” and have a real heart to heart with yourself. Its nothing but a chemical you’re about to go to war with….its a hard, HARD chemical to defeat, but can be beat. My advice, get yourself a can of the fake shit (there are several to choose from these days..good ones too), grab a bag of seeds and a bottle of water and toss out the tobacco. Get plenty of excersise too, if you don’t currently excersise, this is also a good time to get started. Ifthe fog is too much to hhandle the first month, go see your doctor…let him know what you’re doing. He/she can prescribe you something to get you through the hell that is the first 30-50 days. Once you get there, things start to get a lot easier with the quit. We are here, the time is now, let’s do this!!
-JP Day#191
Jim
Totally agree with jayp, cold turkey is how it’s done, don’t prolong getting all the Nicotine out of your system. It is hard, but you can do it! Loose the chantix Jim and get after the quit. It’s not impossible, it’s just a fight that you can win.
I know jayp, shiva, rick, Steve all went cold turkey, look at where they are now,,,
I started chewing in 1981- I quit for 3 years, then started again in 2007. Now 165 days under my belt, I am. It looking back
We are here for you Jim… Let’s do this
Hey guys Bransyn here, second day with out a dip and it’s been pretty rough, I got the flu 2 days ago and haven’t dipped since and 2 days ago I accident drank my spitter which makes me sick when I think of putting a chew in, I have had problems with anxiety and reading some of the posts on here scares me. 18
Also with so much time spent laying here I’ve decided to quit.
congradulations Bransyn. On more day and the poison will be out of your system. it may seem impossible at times but you have to do everything you can to keep tobacco out of your body. nicotine gets into our brains and changes the way the brain works.I don’t know how old you are I’m guessing 18 years old? And I also don’t know how long you use tobacco for? but whatever length of time you used it is long enough you’re on this website for a reason because you do not want to use tobacco anymore. when you get that crave drop and do 20 pushups go for a 15 minute jog anything to get your mind off of it yes it is difficult but everybody on this forum has been through it if you read back I went through it twice in the three month span. do not let this become a 25 year addiction because if you don’t stop now one day at a time you will get the 25 years ask JP
if you have to come on here and rant and rage about how much it sucks to go through withdrawal then do so
Were here for you
Hey guys. I’m on day 5. I’m 31 and ive been a can a day for at least ten years. Pack a week or more smoker as well. Been wanting to quit it all for a while and the wifey promised me I could buy a boat if I quit it all. Quit smoking around the beginning of december, that was easy. This, this is fucking terrible. I’m using Smokey Mtn. as a replacement. Good flavor and texture but it doesn’t last long, starts to feel like a soaked cottonball. My sleep is suffering. Lay here and think about grabbing a dip, guess that’s due to years of having a presleep chew every night. Guess some suggestions or support would be appreciated. Gotta keep my mind off of it.
Hey man I’m 31 as well. I just want you to know that you CAN do this. Its not gonna be easy but living a life of freedom is worth it. Buy some seeds and jolly ranchers. I also chewed on coffee straws too. Do anything but tobacco or nicotine. Sounds easy on paper but I can attest its not. Also are you still smoking? Gonna have to gibe that up as well. If you use any nicotine at all you start right back as square one. Let us know how your doing!
Rick
Day 64
Hey man just reread your post and wanted to say quitting smoking is a huge hurdle man. I know how tough it is but you gotta just tell yourself sometimes even yell to yourself that your bigger than that can. And don’t ever forget how terrible you feel because you’ll never have to feel like this again as long as nicotine remains on the outside. Its is a powerful neurotoxin that we are up against so your gonna have to reach deep within at times and reach out for support when tobacco use seems imminent. this was hard for me to hear when I first put the can down but the truth is nicotine does not solve any problems at all. It only relieves the withdrawal symptoms caused by nicotine use.
You got this man
Hang in there
Rick
Thanks guys! I never have energy and have terrible acid reflux problems, hoping quitting will fix it!!!
Hey jayp how did that neck scan go out of curiosity? Not trying to pry of course hoping for the best. the reason I ask is you know I found a lump on the left side of my neck about an inch or two above my collarbone back in July of last year. I was plowing through 2 cans a day at the time.
it definitely made me stop and think about what I was doingbut of course I went right back to the can after a day or two. I waited to see if it would go away in and after it did not maybe a month or two later ended up going to the doctor and she felt all over my neck and under my jaw and of course look in my mouth and under my tongue and all that s***. she said yeah its a lymph node its a little swollen but I don’t think it’s anything to worry about it’s definitely not cancerous. i would have felt better if they would have stuck a needlebin it and biopsied right on the spot. the good news is it hasn’t changed shape or size at all but the bad news is it’s still there.
it definetly had my anxiety up to an all time high in my last months of chewing. It was a crazy spot to be in. I would get anxious if I ran out of chew but would also get really anxious when I did chew because I was convinced it was making me sick. I would also blow every little sore and bump in my mouth out of proportion thinking worst case scenario every time. I guess everybody is different but I turned into a crazy neurotic fucker for about 3 months because of all that until I finally stopped using.
Jeez way too long of a ramble but hey I had to get it out. Thanks guys
Hey Rick,
I haven’t had the scan…yet. they told me it might be a couple of weeks. I am fairly confident this is just a precaution. I think if there was something there, then there would of been signs when he looked around. I feel like I can see the skyline from the woods, I’m not quite out yet.
Geeze…pretty freaked out story you wrote there. I think I probably would of quit too had that been me. Lymph nodes, swollen, usually indicate an infection the body is trying to fight off. Interesting it all went away. I bet you feel ahead of the game now that you quit!
-JP
Day #190
Hey fellas just checking in it’s been a while. I’ve been fighting the flu, my fever finally broke under 100 today. Rick/JP both of those stories are enough to scare a quit into any of us. Glad to hear you are both alright. A couple weeks for results is straight torture though.
Awesome you made it thru 18 without a crave!!
I’ve read a bunch of posts, how are all the new guys doing?
Miller? Alex? Mike? Mason? Travis?
Mike you better quit and get that boat dude!!
Travis glad to hear about the stress test, I have a minor abnormality with a valve that gets monitored so I have a stress-echo next week.
Steve
Day 80
Hey guys, yeah it’s been a while. I’m still doing pretty well. I’m actually starting to be able to sleep again. I definitely feel a little bit of accomplishment from making it this far, and so far, once you get past the physical part of it (headaches, etc.,) after a few days, it gets a lot easier. And yeah man, getting a boat would be a sweet addition, but keep in kind how much better you’ll feel every time you get a little sore in your mouth and how you won’t be wishing you quit earlier.
Alex
Day 19
Wow 19 days already Alex, that’s excellent man keep it up. Those first few weeks are brutal, try to bottle up how that felt when you get craves down the road. My craves have really become few and far between now but day 19 I know I wasn’t 100% yet. You will definitely still have some rough days in the future but nothing compared to what you’ve been through.
You got this man, keep it up.
Steve
Yeah, not to say it’s been easy or that I’m 100% because I’m not. I still get some fog, it’s just milder than before. Compared to the first few days though, its not so bad. When I get a crave it’s helped thinking about how terrible that first week was and how much I don’t want to go through that again. I’ve been using seeds, and both coffee and herbal fake stuff.
Alex
Day 19
Just finished 18 holes, not one crave. I look back at the experience of my quit, meeting some awesome people, and helping new quitters.
If your a newbie, keep up the battle, kick the nic bitches ass everyday, and before you know it, you will be doing your HOF.
Rick, I will be one of the first to read yours, you kicked ass twice, your awesome
Jayp, shiva, you inspire us all
Jeff
Day 161
Jeff your the man 18 holes and no craves? You’ve moved far in your quit dude…..awesome!!!!
I’m doin the best I can to be honest. The thoughts of tobacco don’t dominate my thoughts anymore….they seem to pop in there when I’m doing something I used to do with a dip. I kinda get a twinge or a weird feeling like I should be doing something else with it. I suppose the rewiring will continue to take some time. Dammit I’m getting there. I just wish it would hurry up a little. I know…..did it everyday for 6.5 years it’s not gonna go away quickly.
After reading all the stories here I’m happy I chose to give it up when I did. Its hard to believe somebody could dip As long as you all did and still give it up.
Let’s keep this quit going!!!
Rick
Day 63
Hey Jeff,
Are you still using the fake stuff? Although I am no longer craving, I an still using the fake stuff…seeds too.
Jayp
I only used the fake shit for a few weeks, have not had a fake dip since early December.
I am still using carrots for some reason, but that has slowed down allot.
Rick
I still at times get that crave… Usually playing golf, when I do, I am having much easier time getting past it. You are already at day 63. Awesome
Steve, glad your getting well, nothing worse then the flu or colds. Before my quit. I take a bit fat dip, right after cough medicine, what a complete addict!
Any golfers? We should set up a quitters tournament, would be cool to meet you crazy bastard quitters!!!
Hey Jeff. I call myself a golfer but my score is around 100 usually so I wouldn’t say I’m a good golfer!! I usually play at the end of the year when softball is over otherwise I find myself stepping into the drive at the teebox. Keep those feet still lol!!!!
Well that’s great you aren’t using the fake stuff anymore either. Carrots? Still a better alternative than tobacco…any way you slice them (ba-dum-dum-ching).
I golf, but man, you’re out in Cali! Never visited there, as soon as Michigan gets their shit back together (and should be soon w/Harbaugh), and makes it to Pasadena, I will be coming there for a visit. If you ever come back to the Mitten, let me know, I will definitely do a meet up for some golf. Plenty of great destinations to golf here…as I assume there are there.
Anyway….good to hear you are done with all dips, real and fake!
-JP
Rick, jayp
I hope michigan can get back to glory. These last few years have been crazy, I am sure with the new coach, we can get after it.
Rick, where is your abode?
I love seeing so many new quitters! I must tell you guys something, the last week I have finally felt 100%. My quit date was august 11, 2014, and with the sweats, the fog, the nic bitch that tried to cut my life short, it was one hell of a fight in my book. I am finally 100%. I have lost almost 10 pounds, hiking almost everyday, eating healthy,
I am an addict! Now I am addicted to my quit and being healthy!
Jeff
161
Lots of new quit posts out here….love to see the older quitters, Rick and Steve helping the newer guys out, great job you 2!
Been a little.busy this new year, but my quit is as strong as ever. Its getting close to the time I’ve set to cut back on the fake stuff too. I did just drop another order in and received it. I have really found using the fake 1-3 times a day is really what has made this quit successful for me. Of course the seeds have no doubt been a large part of my quit too. We’ll see..as I mentioned, I would dip a can of the fake a day then ever go back to the real shit. It has been a joy getting away from something that was truly a terrible habit for 25 years of my life. I hope all the new quitters read this board and see that if I can do it cold turkey, with the aid of some seeds and fake stuff, after 25 years, any one can do it. There are others here that are kicking the Nicotines ass too! Have a true, heart to heart, conversation with yourself. Get angry at that can that controls your life and squash it! Everyone can do it, anything else is an excuse!
Quit On!!!
-JP
Day #188
Guys I am 25 years old and been dipping 2 cans a day since I was 13. Been having health problems along with it but I start attempting to give it up starting now. Wish me luck!!!
Welcome Miller and good luck! You just got to mad at Big Tobacco and commit to quitting. Be sure to let us know your progress….we are here.
-JP
The fake stuff definitely helps with the habit part. It even stings your lip a little. It does have a different texture, but you can get past that.
four weeks….28 days……had my nuclear stress test and it came back normal with no blockages found……doctor told me all is normal I just need to drop some weight….snuff was my dietary supplement …….I actually had a fleeting thought of how that I could have one dip at night and control it…..and then I realized I couldnt…..Hooch was ordered tonight…Please God let it work….the cravings are not bad….it is just I miss the spitting and the habit….I will be ok….just got to keep going
Travis, great job on 28 days of quit. Good to hear health is in line. We all used (me too) dip to supplement food. I gained 20 lbs since I’ve quit. I’ve still have it hanging around….but I will trim it off….just another hurdle. You can do it too. No, “one dip at night” will not help you quit. You need to find yourself an alternative…and use it! Hooch is a good one too. It will not be exactly like your tobacco…but you need to embrace it as your new habit. You like spitting? Try that Hooch Spitfire flavor, it us hot, it burns, but produces a lot of juice.
Keep up your quit!
-JP
This is my first day, on the way to North Dakota. Not even 24 hours, and my head is feeling like something is trying to claw it’s way out. To make everything worse, I got the flu last night, shakes, shivers, and intensified headache. I’ve been diping for almost 6 months, and I’m sick of relying on the chew to get through my day. When I don’t have a dip in I’m depressed, so this is going to be one hell of a ride. I’m 18 years old, and trying to quit.
imagine how depressed you feel if you keep doing this for the next 30 years and then you have to tell your wife and son that they are going to cut your tongue out and replace it with a muscle from your arm because the radiation field Failed. its f****** awesome that you were attempting to give it up at age 18 so many guys on this website would probably cut off a part of their body to be able to give it up at age 18. that awful terrible feeling that you feel right now is the nicotine leaving your body. It is a true poison you got this brother come on in here and rant and let it all out we’ve heard it before and we want to hear it!!!!
Rick day 60
Thanks jayp for taking the time you busy man!!!
I’ll check them both out
Luke that is damn impressive, the only place I went for the first few weeks other than work was the gym. You need to be careful around the booze for the first month plus in my opinion, it seems that you have done well in these situations but you don’t want to get cocky! You’ve made it 14 days which is excellent but what concerns me is sometime soon after a couple beers you might just say I got this shit licked, I’ve done 14 days no problem, I can have one dip it won’t affect me. Ask Rick a slight cave sets you right back to hell day 1! Alcohol lowers inhibitions and weakens resolve.
Don’t get me wrong I plan to drink a fairly decent amount this Sunday and I fully expect not dipping to be a challenge. A steady diet of smokey mountain is what I’m planning for.
Steve
Day 74
I second that Steve!!!!
I had to buy smokey mountain grape today everything else was pouches ughhh.
No such as thing as one. Within a week you’ll be back to normal usage. Just think luke—— for 2 weeks you’ve controlled the nic bitch your in the drivers seat now let it stay that way. Anything that’s worth it is gonna be tough your finding that out firsthand brother but your doing it!!!! Stay strong and just know that any rationalizations you come up with to chew is just your addicted brain wanting its fix that you gave it for a long time. That voice will get quieter and its words will carry less weight each passing day. Stay strong man.
Hey jayp I’m getting bored with the smokey mountain. I heard you talk about triumph before…..what makes you like it more than smokey mountain? I used to chew Skoal then Kodiak just wondering if its close and wanna try something else. I still can’t get past the oral fixation nor do I want to yet.
Rick
Day 59
Hey Rick,
Been real busy today, seen a lot of movement and I want to reply to some others here as well….really busy. But real quick, I was a Skoal Wintergreen Long cut guy (Kodiak at first, just tore the shit out of my lip, Skoal eventually did too). I started with Smokey Mountain myself. Had I not stumbled across the alternatives to tobacco page here, I would of not tried the other stuff. Triumph isn’t anything like Skoal…I would say Hooch is probably closest to tobacco feel. Triumph, to me, just feels and tastes good. And then spit, is so much like tobacco (big ones). Very moist too. I just like it more than all the others….just dropped an order in yesterday for more. They offer their 4 pack sample (Wintergreen, Mint, Cinnamon and Classic) for $10! And shipping is free and FAST! I just prefer them over all the others. I hear the Coffee grinds are pretty good, but I have never liked coffee….love the smell, hate the taste. But, Elicit is almost identical to Triumph, except it is a finer cut, like Cope. Apparently, the owner of Elicit got in a ownership dispute, so started Triumph. In my honest opinion, I enjoy Triumph more. classic is my favorite flavor….but all are real treats. Give it a whirl….I think you’d enjoy. If not…mail me your unused cans, lol!
You all are doing awesome here, I got to fly, I will be back and talk in a bit!
-JP
Day #185
The coffee grinds are tasty if you like coffee, but if you’re using to try to forget about dip, it’s not really the way to go. You don’t spit (I guess you could if you wanted to,) it doesn’t feel at all like the real thing, and it travels like the finest cut tobacco you could imagine. Go with the herbal stuff if that doesn’t sound good. I’ve been using both, but the herbal stuff is a lot more useful when you’re craving.
Day 14
Thanks JayP and Steve for the support this is a great site I’m so glad i stumbled upon it lots of support here. Last night was the toughest so far went out fishing for the first time since I quit and my buddy who dips was out there and asked if I wanted a pinch and I told him I just quit about 2 weeks ago and he said he was trying to quit too so I told him about this website and that there is a lot of support on here for people trying to quit but I was very tempted out on the water to put a dip in but I stayed true/strong to my word that I was done and resisted the urge but later that night I went out with a few of my friends that dip and we had a few drinks and I had to stop drinking because I knew if I drank anymore that I was definitely going to put a dip in so I cut myself off and had to leave the bar in order to beat the habit but felt like a champ today when I woke up knowing that I don’t have to start over on day 1 again.
Luke
Day 14 made it to 2 weeks
I do want to share another thing with this board, about myself, that is certainly related to things here.
About a month and a half ago, I noticed that when I changed the pitch of my voice, like when raising to yell, my left side of my throat would hurt and I would lose my voice for a second. I also found a small lump near my tonsil too.
Of course, you hear all the stories….you quit tobacco then something bad happens.
I went to an ENT doc today, all is well he said. Nothing unordinary. Still need to get a scan of the neck, just to be sure. I had some reflux issues that he seems to think are the issues….so I’ve gotsome meds to fix that problem..
But scary stuff none the less…..this is yet ANOTHER reason I will remain tobacco free. Had I never started back when I did, I wouldn’t worry about this shit!
-JP
Scary shit JP
Well I have being using Chewing Tobacco since 1991 and I am currently 43 close to 44 yrs old. And I am wanting to start I have been using Bacoff and mixing with with my redseal wintergreen. But when I sit here and read what everyone is sharing it would seem your all going cold turkey and would appear you are all having success. I have been chewing for a little over 20 yrs and nothing good to show other than 14 screws in my upper and lower jaws and have been waiting for my permanent dentures once I have stop chewing tobacco because of the bad and ugly stains it leaves. The crappy part was I was off for 3 weeks during the healing process of all these screws but the power of nicotine seems to be stronger than the pain I have went thru hard to believe. I just open a can of redseal and after reading all that I have read I’m thinking i’m ready to go cold turkey as so as Im done with the can which would be the weekend.
Hey Alan,
It’s good to hear that you have been mixing the fake shit with the real shit, it should make the transition to 100% fake shit a little bit easier. During your recovery you probably weren’t thinking about quitting, which is why you went right back to it. It is very important to get yourself mentally prepared for your quit. And once you quit it is definitely helpful to come on here and read/post.
I remember researching quitting with a huge Kodiak in!
Things that have helped me: sunflower seeds, gum, fake chew, working out and short bursts of exercise during craves (pushups/burpees when you feel a crave). It also helps to know that craves only last a few minutes so just fight through each one as they arise. Watch what you eat for a few weeks, sugar wise as I’ve read spikes in blood sugar can make craves more frequent and intense. And anytime you think you “need” chew to help you do or get through something remember how dumb that is in reality. Nicotine doesn’t make you better at anything it only makes you an addict, it only takes from you (health, money, teeth, etc.) and doesn’t give shit back.
Only people that have quit will truly understand what you will be going through and we got your back here.
Steve
Day 74
Alan
Cold turkey may seem scary, but it does work! I am on day 159 on my cold turkey quit.
Since you have read some of the past post from many of the members here, then you have seen, just on this page, the support you will have.
I would even go on to say, many here are waiting for our new quitters.
This site continues to amaze me!
I am 52, it will be hard the first month, but my fog ( I am sure you have read about) lasted 30-40 days.
I ate raw carrots like a rabbit, a did some seeds and a little fake stuff, use any and all tools.
All I can say is your start day should be now
Jeff
159
just wanted to add to the story above about my cave. I guess my point in all of that is once you make the decision to quit stick with it. Your mind will build up nicotine like its some amazing wonderful thing that’s just going to make everything Rosie and better. That couldn’t be further from the truth and do not listen to the lies being told within your mind. fact is the only thing one more hit is nicotine will do is decrease your chances that you will ever be able to stay quit permanently. I can’t stress how lucky I feel that I had that one night of failure and have been quit since. It just doesn’t happen that way it just doesn’t.
Jeff great point!!!! Lets keep reeling them in.
People need to know there is life after tobacco. Its gets better a lot better.
Rick
Day 58
Well put Rick!!
Hey Rick with no slip-up would today be day 100 for you? I feel like your slip was on/around day 40
Yeah day 95 (36+59)
Oh I well it taught me a good lesson.
There was nothing there.
Jayp
Check this out. I read on a smoking cessation site that quiting cold turkey is maybe 2 out of 10. They describe the pure intense hell that people go thru make them cave.
Now. Check out killthecan. I looked back and who we talk to, of course I have no evidence of what I am about to say, but. Here we all quite cold turkey, and I think we are close to 6 out of 10 success !
I say no evidence because many folks come here and never post ( like me for almost first 30 days)
So. Huge success rate here quitters. !!!
Jeff
157
That’s an awesome stat there Jeff, good find!
I certainly tried quitting w/help before….the nicorette gum. 6 months later, I started again. I truly believe that the only way to quit IS cold turkey. I was told this by several people.
Now…the oral fixation is the tough part. Thankfully there are so many good alternative herbal chews these days. And I absolutely devour, sunflower seeds. They are what I use 90% of the day to kill the oral crave.
But I agree Jeff, huge success this site is, I really am glad I stumbled across it by accident. It provided me with motivation and support to stay away from dip….I know it did for you as well.
Thanks for sharing that
-JP
That is pretty cool Jeff, thanks for sharing. This is my first quit attempt, never made sense to do anything but cold turkey. With Nicorette you’re really just delaying the quit.
After having success, I’m a big believer in the use of substitutes like fake dip, seeds and gum.
Good to see some new faces on here supporting one another. Just dropping in to say I’m proud of everyone who has stayed committed to their quit and for the new people who have decided to take that first brave step to freedom.
Great story Rick. If anyone has the urge to cave, read his story. He did have a short cave, but decided his quit was far more important than a mistake and re-committed.You’re doing awesome Rick!
I agree with Jeff, reach out to us if you would like to chat, we drop by all the time and keep quitting!!
-JP Day#184
This is awesome, nice to see so many new quitters! Many new year resolutions on the line here.
Keep fighting one hour at a time, which will turn into days…
I agree with jayp about the fog, it was the hardest part for me, and lasted at least 30 days. Get past the fog and it gets so much better.
Shiva, Steve, Rick, Jayp. Keep kicking the nic bitch ass, as I am doing every day!
New quitters, take advantage of these veterans to help you get this done, most of you will have day 100 past you before spring. Think about that…
Jeff
Day 156
Hi guys,
I have dipped for 10 years and finally decided to stop. Until yesterday, I was dipping around 2 cans a day. This is not going to be easy. Dip has become such a large part of my everyday life – I’m already having to retrain myself even one day in.
I’ve recorded some thoughts I’ve written down, as I plan on keeping track of everything.
I feel dizzy. Slightly crazy… manic, even.
My stomach is in knots or alternating with shooting pain
I definitely understand what ‘cloudy’ is… perfect adjective.
I would do unspeakable things for a dip, if I wouldn’t get addicted again.
My brain is convincing me to give up! What the fuck, brain. Pick a team, here.
Strange sense of calmness and relaxation
^^ I feel like I keep repeating this cycle. Fuck.
Hey Eric how you holding up? I dipped twice as long but half as much and I found it very helpful to taper off. Did you taper at all or go from 2 cans to nothing?
Steve
Eric,
Hang in there!! I dipped for 30yrs and am on day 13. It sucks and know what you me on the brain to choose a side. Mine trying to convince me to start up again as well.
Chuck
Remember these days Eric. You’ll never have to go through them again. As long as nicotine stays on the outside you’ll be OK.
I want to tell you a little story. Maybe this will help you when you are really craving tobacco.
my last dip of Skoal was on October 12th. I had a dentist appointment the next day and the last time I was in there my mouth looks really bad. I remember spitting out a dip on the way into the office how pathetic is that.so the next day I tossed my s*** and started posting on here a little bit at a time and it was awful one of the worst experiences of my life. so one day at a time I stacked up 36 days of no nicotine and everyday I long for it just a taste just one little bit of nicotine. I held out until the night of November 17th I was out drinking with some softball buddies and had a few too many drinks and before you know it they go out for a cigarette and I make my mind up right then and there that I want a taste.
as much as I had built it up in my mind that it was going to feel great that it was going to be awesome and just like old times to be honest it tasted like s*** felt awful and the first thing I did when I left the bar was by Skoal Apple my favorite brand.but I didn’t have the balls to open it. the next day when I went to work that can burn a hole in my pocket for an hour before I finally dumped it and jump back on board here, joined the forum and started quitting.and here’s the worst part man after that one cigarette I honestly felt as bad as I did the first time through the first 3 days.I feel like I’m very lucky 99.9% of people that get a taste after a prolonged cessation jump right back in.
once you quit stay quit because honestly there’s nothing there nothing and nicotine will not help you or your situation all it will do is reinforce your addiction.
Stay quit
Rick
Day 57
Today is day 10 it’s getting little easier just gotta remember that day 1 and 2 where a lot harder to say no the day 10 keep strong everyone!
Congrats on 10 days of freedom Luke. Yes, the first 72 hours are the worst…now (or soon for you) comes the dreadful “fog” next. Once you get through that, it will get easier and easier. You’ll still have those occasional “hurdles” but you should be able to beat them down as they come.
Let us all know how you’re doing, we’re all here to help!!
-JP
Luke awesome work on the 10 days buddy! For me the worst was over by day 10 but I wouldn’t call it easy there are tough tests along the way but the guys on here helped me thru. I got bad anxiety in week 3 then again around day 50 and everyone here knew firsthand what that felt like and could tell me how I felt without me typing it, it was such a big help at a pivotal time.
It definitely helps to come on here when you hit a rough spot because we’ve been thru it and want to help you.
Big test for me this weekend at AFC championship game, go pats!
Fuck nicotine
Steve
Day 72
Hey steve, almost 3/4 the way to the first floor. Proud of you, keep up the quit!
-JP
Today is day 1 and this is the 3rd or 4th time attempting to quit. I am motivated more than ever to quit this time and have found that this blog could be really helpful
You got it Steve F…get mad at the addiction, its really the only way to get motivated to quit and stay quit.
And yes, this site if a very useful tool, if you choose to embrace what its about….”killing the can”..good luck and drop by often to let us know how your quit is going, we want to hear!
-JP
Hey Steve F,
How did today go?
Well. Still dizzy. Still haven’t had any nicotine. Haven’t had too much of a desire for the fake stuff either. I even got a few cans of that coffee dip – It’s delicious. I just think my body knows its not the same. Trucking through though.
Day 10
Thanks guys… So far I’ve stayed strong… Been hunting all day and been drinking as well. For me it’s boiled down to nothing but a mind game. I’m not having any withdraw symptons or attitude changes…. Just that voice that says one dip wont kill you. Crazy how some dirt with nicotine in it can make you feel like a meth head.
Made it through the weekend. Saturday was rough with all my buddies… None of them dip but they are all fraternity brothers that got me started on dipping in college. We were hunting, drinking, and just hanging out by the fire at duck camp. They noted multiple times that I seemed out of it and like something was wrong… All I could think about was driving to the gas station and getting a can of Copenhagen. They even encouraged it… (wanting me to perk up) and almost gave in multiple times. For me it’s simply a mental game that my competitive personality doesn’t want to lose. I even made it through a day at home alone watching the boys lose (that alone will make you want to dip) and doing honey do chores while the wife was at work. (yes, I dipped for two years and she never found out. I dipped in the car or while she was at work. This is another reason for quitting). All in all, ten days down and still going. Little worried about this week because I will be traveling with work and will be driving long hours in the car.
you are kicking ass my friend the mental games will be strong but you must be stronger. Stack the cards in your favor and know that nicotine once you back did once you forever. But also know that nicotine has no IQ and the only way it gets into your body is if you put it there. your my hero today
Rick
Day 56
I’ve been lurking this page here and there to help me through my quit so far, and personally, I would say you’re addicted or you wouldn’t be wishing you could have it while drinking or watching the game. Think of it this way – back when you were a kid before you ever even tried it, it wasn’t even a thought of something that you wanted to do. Then you started dipping and you thought it was okay because you only had one or two on weekends drinking or whatever, and then suddenly you started having some on the weekdays too. Its a slippery slope.
If you want to be tobacco free, then do it all the way, suffer through the cravings and hopefully eventually it’ll just be a passing thought rather than an actual consideration. You’re just rationalizing, as I’m sure we all have done at some point.
I’m only on day 9 myself after about 8 years of dipping, but I’m pretty determined to not have to go through those first few days again.
I’ve been having a lot of trouble sleeping since I quit and I often come here in the middle of the night to reinforce myself.
Glad to see I’m not the only ALEX that’s been lurking this page! I’ve come back a few times to read recent comments and it’s been a big help to know what others are going through.
I am on day 3 myself (after ~12 years and I’m 29) and the past week has been rough. Trying to get my quit to stick and going back and forth… feel good about this time around because I’ve been sick with a cold and had a moment while driving where I could feel my whole nasal passages and jaw feel more normal than they have in a very long time.
I’d been having some serious jaw discomfort on one side that was really scaring me… no lumps or lesions but to be safe I have a dentist apt this week to get a cleaning and screening. Here’s to making this quit last for good!
Thanks again to all that post their stories… it DOES help. I will try to check in and do the same as I stay off the chew.
Alex good luck at the dentist, I went last month for the first time in a while. I hope everything checks out ok, but I do hope you don’t use the good news to start back up.
Keep us posted please
Steve day 70
Nice work Alex and well said. Keep up the good work.
Those first few days sure were hell, definitely dont ever want to do those again.
Hello guys. Dipped for about a yea and a half before I quit (two to three pinches a week turned to a can every two days in that period) I am on day 8. First two days were hell. After the third I’ve had no cravings or withdrawals (in fact, I’ve felt amazing!) however, their is a voice in my head that keeps telling me it’s ok to have a dip or two this weekend while you are drinking or watching the game. Guess my question is… Am I addicted if it’s this easy to quit and would it hurt to have a a dip or two here and there the rest of my life? Obvious answer is… Yes it causes cancer, it’s gross, etc… But is that any different from the man who smokes the occasional cigar?
Thanks guys!
I got to agree with what Alex said, Taylor. Yes, you are addict if a couple pinches turned into a can. All of this “I’ll only take one here and there” turns into, is an addiction. I had my first taste of chew when I was 10. For 5 years, I dabbled with it (like you say, here and there). I was a kid….taking dips behind my parents back, with other kids, that were doing the same. Fast forward 5 years, I was 15. A 3 sport athlete in High School (4 if you count Boxing outside school). 75% of the team(s) chewed, especially the wrestling team. This is where the “just here and there” turnedinto “all day-every day”….for the next 25 years! So, I agree with Alex, either you say NO to tobacco or you don’t. There is no in between to be a successful quitter. As Alex said, its rationalizing…and it sure didn’t work for me. And I am not a mentally weak slug….my will power is as strong as steel….but that shit in tobacco can bring any “tough minded” person to their knees!
Good Luck, hope you stick around and quit with us all.
By the way, today ties my longest stretch with quitting smokeless tobacco. Back in the 90’s, I quit for 6 months. Was fishing with my buddies up north. They all started dipping and I thought I was strong enough to have “just one” while fishing. Its all it took me to get started again. Never again, you either are quit or not!
I hope you choose to quit!
-JP
Day #180
Congrats on your 6 months man. That must feel great. Your a solid quitter with cajones of steel!
Thanks Rick, I appreciate the props. I was off a few days, but it really does feel good to know I am 6 months removed from the worm dirt! Headed to 200!
-JP Day#182
The wrestling team got me too JayP!! My start is very similar dips here and there till I wrestled varsity as a freshman, on meet days everyone was trying to “spit off” that last 1/4 or 1/2 pound. Running in trash bags, etc.
Steve
Day 70
Hey Steve, hahaha “running in trash bags” I remember that. I went to a smaller school, so, Varsity and Frosh were combined. Anyway, as a frosh, I was 195 lbs, so I was just enough to be tipping in Heavyweight and a little over the 189 weightclass. I bounced between the two. Which sucked, both those weight classes were dominated by seniors! So here I, was this frosh, wrestling varsity, and wrestling in a senior weight class. You learn to grow up quick!! I did alright though…just had to take some Pickens, which only make you stronger.
Same thing with quitting the dipping, you just take your lickens (craves), beat them back down, then move on.
-JP
Day #182
That’s funny JP, they were fun days but cutting weight really sucked. And you realize how good of shape you really were in, 2 minute periods are so long! I was really young as a freshman, younger than half the grade below me and I was a lot smaller, 103 or 112 is what I wrestled at and there were still a lot of seniors in those weight classes not to mention there was a lot of mingling between weight classes at practice, meaning you trained with every other weight on the team so being the smallest guy was not much fun, lot of ass kickings. I finally hit my growth spurt junior year and decided I was done cutting weight so I went from wrestling to pond hockey w/ beers and Kodiak till spring track (AKA pre-football training camp).
Taylor here’s my best answer. I started dipping everyday around April 2008. I was 25. Before that I smokeca cigar every year or two from the time I turned 18. I never craved the cigar never thought about it never thought”hey I should do this everyday”. When I started dipping my mindset was “I’m going to do this all the time because I really like it”. When I tried to quit my thoughts were”wow I’m really depressed because I’m not dipping”. Now that I’m quit I know I’m a nicotine addict. I wasn’t addicted from 18 to 25 because I didn’t do it enough to get me hooked. But once i bombarded my brain daily with nicotine for a couple of years I knew that there was no going back to the once in a while celebratory cigar. Its just not possible. The law of addiction states “read ministration of a drug to an addict will reinforce the chemical dependency to that drug”. Once you quit and really quit there is no going back and doing it once in awhile. And why would you want too? Tobacco has no health benefits whatsoever. It jut so happens that nicotine is very similar to an important neurotransmitter in our brain. Receptors are 8 times more likely to attach to the nicotine than their own neurotransmitter. Withdrawal will cause all kinds of lies to be told in your head. That’s all they are.lies. we do not need tobacco to survive.
OK that’s a hell of a ramble
Quit on!!!!!!
Rick
Day 54
went to the doctor a couple days ago but not because of anxiety or withdrawals but because I have type A flu and have had the chills and body aches and all that happy stuff for the last four days. I did, however, have a EKG ( normal thank you Jesus) and a blood test (Cholesterol is high not 400 high but in the low 200’s…got to take lipitor) and I go for a stress test next week. If i have any blockages they are probably small. I finally got to eat food today and wouldnt you know it…a craving hit me right after I ate. The inside of my mouth feels like a wagon teams just took a pit stop in it after all i have been through this week and I get a freaking craving….i am too sick to care about it now and the meds they gave me for the flu knock me out so I slept it off. I have lost about ten pounds with this flu crap and I know it is water weight but I feel better after hearing my heart was working somewhat right. I have to try the hooch stuff. I cant stand the taste of any of the alternatives that I have tried. I swear they taste like red seal…yuck….good luck to all ya….oh yeah…since I quit I have had four people that have decided to quit with me….I hope it works for them
Hey Travis, glad to hear you are in good health….the flu can beat..as can high cholesterol. Better than other things you can get from chewing tobacco.
I tried all of the Hooch flavors…its a little different than Smokey Mountain. One of the owners of this site said to him “its the closest to the real thing”. Give it a try, there are sample coupons here on this site.
Just remember….none of these fake dips are like tobacco. They might be close…but not the same at all. The key is to find one “that works” for you. Forgot what kind you quit….but Elicit is a real fine cut….like Copenhagen. I was a Skoal Wintergreen long cut guy (Kodiak before that)…so I knew what Cope was like, I tried it (Skoal Fine cut too)…but wasn’t a real fan of the fine cuts..Too much loose shit in the teeth!!
Anyway…I’m glad you’re in good health, hope all checks out with your ticker too.
Get yourself some hooch, you might like it. They offer 2 cuts, regular (fine) and Long (Rough, which is what I tried). Honestly, I liked the Spit Fire best. Shit was pretty dam hot in the lip…I understood why it was called that when I tried it. Interesting flavors.
I just really enjoyed the Triumph most…and is what I use today (1-3 dips a day at most). Only had one thus far today, but I am headed to the basement to do some drywall work….doing stuff like that is when I miss the dip most!! But I’m fine with the fake shit!
Good Luck and let us know how you’re doing!!
-JP
Yea I can tell he already feels guilty about it. I think the reason he offered it to me is because he knows I’ve been struggling really hard with it and in his mind a little taste of nicotine would alleviate some of the stress and anxiety that I have been feeling. apparently he doesnt know the law of addiction which I explained to him very thoroughly but hey an addict will always be an addict its our choice whether we want to be active addicts or not. and as you said before JP misery loves company it probably would have made him feel better about his cave if I would have joined him. “I don’t know what the big f****** deal is its not like I bought a can of dip or anything”. Its hard to argue with somebody who doesn’t want all the factsm. it’s not the Dip per se its whats in the dip. too bad because I was just getting ready to update him to warrior status. now he’s been downgraded to active user status.
okay I think I’m good now I just had to get all of that off my plate so I can move on with my day……
Rick
Day 53
Agree with all you wrote Rick. We are all addicts on this board. Its hard to accept that word and stigma, but Nicotine is a drug. I guess the best thing to do is not judge, he’s just not ready. Last thing I will do is judge someone’s nicotine addiction….I had a 25 year habit!! But feel I’ve finally got a good grasp on my quit. You can only help folks so far…its got to come deep from within. Keep on, keeping on!!
-JP
Ahhhh a little disappointment today. A fellow softball buddy that quit with me back in October started vaping the other day. We were kinda quit buddies but I hadn’t talked to him for a couple days. Not only that but he offered me a taste which I of course declined. Just kinda bums me out……but not too much because today is day 53 for me. His excuse ” man I just couldnt take the stress anymore”. I tried to explain to him that’s one problem plus nicotine equals two problems. he doesn’t know he’s an addict. I hope he stays off the Kodiak. the only thing nicotine solves is the problem it created in the first place. stay quit fellas.
Hi Rick,
Sorry to hear your quit buddy fell. I give you props for declining the offer….man, I think I would of gotten pissed had I been offered after my friend knew I was quit. People that know me, and know I quit, know better. All well….in another week or so, hell, 100 days from now, your buddy will say “man I should of stayed quit like you”….bet on it.
-JP
Damn this sucks man. This is so hard.
Hey Isaac,
Hang in there buddy. You’re still in the early phases…I promise, it gets better if you remain committed to keeping that poison out of your body. If it were easy, then everyone would chew/smoke, because it is easy to quit. Contrary, its a tough habit yo shake, but it will get easier, hang in there!!
-JP
Day #179
Hey Isaac
Stay strong man remember why you are quitting, take each crave one at a time. Having just been where you are it does suck.
You want to know what sucks even worse? Chemo!! Think about that during your next crave would I rather battle this crave or go thru months of chemo from this shit.
You got this
Steve
Day 68
Thats a very good point, every time I start to doubt I think of Tony Gwynn
Isaac you got this man the reason you’re feeling like s*** is because of nicotine that’s all no other reason your mind is just trying to fill the void right now. but it gets better. A lot better. Be a warrior dude and take your life back.
Day 5 – I’ll be honest, today was much better. I’m a teacher and had a snowday today, so the opportunity to catch up on sleep and get a workout in helped a lot. Yesterday was hell. Only thought about chewing all day and blew up on my girlfriend for no reason before we went to bed. She doesn’t get it. “Just don’t let yourself think about it.” Haha. Oh well. She tries to help the best she can. Seeds and gum, seeds and gum, repeat.
Actually, I guess it’s technically day 6 now.
Hey JayP,
It just seemed like I was gone because there have been a lot of posts lately. I’m pot committed to steal a poker term at this point.
“Pot committed”….love the “all-in” attitude Steve!!
-JP
Just want to give a shout out to a few here….Jeff, congrats on the 150 days of freedom, on your way to the second floor with me.
Steve, glad to see you’re back posting. Had me worried you were out. You are almost 3/4 to the 100 days, keep it up!
Rick, congrats on crossing the halfway mark, proud you re-committed to the quit and have continued your journey. I also want to offer you congrats on that child. I can say once you actually see that baby, it’ll all make sense “why” you chose to quit.Happy for you man!
And Shiva, thanks for the ccontinued support on this page. You are the senior on the board, minus Chewie who checks in on us all….I think he has 8 years of quit under his belt….amazing!
Hope you all have a great day and welcome to all the new quitters, you have our support!
-JP
Day #177
I just came across this site and it has been really helpful. I’m on day 20 and have only slept 2 of the last three nights and I work all the time. I feel better knowing insomnia is somewhat normal because this just started happening. The past 20 days have been very hard, my mind has been on the biggest roller coaster and I’ve probably questioned every thing in my life but I’m not going back.
Nice work Hink, 20 days is awesome
Jayp your winning rules! Steve the wife is doing good i just felt the boy move in her stomach!! How crazy is that?! Anyway glad to see your around still I know things can be hectic…. We’ve seemed to attract some new blood which is great!!! The more people we get here the better.
Come in here and air out your bullshit we can take it. We WANT to hear it! This addiction is tough to quit. It takes a real bad ass to put the can down for good.
Rick it’s pretty awesome to feel the baby moving, the whole experience is fun. Be glad you quit before he came.
Jeff congrats on 150, what a milestone.
For you new quitters, check the timeline on this site it’s pretty accurate!
This board has been a big help especially early on because you can read what’s normal during certain points, for example anxiety at X day, but to hear the actual experience of other quitters gives you that little extra I can get thru this. In my case it was anxiety, after hearing JP’s similar experience I felt much better/confident.that what I was feeling was normal and I wasn’t dying, if you go back to my earlier posts from months ago you will see what I mean.
to you new guys, Jeff, Rick, JayP, Shiva and myself were all helped by others during our quit and we are all eager to pay it forward.
Steve
Day 66