Creating a healthier life: Darla wants to quit smoking naturally, lose weight and improve her skin--natural health coach "Dr. Deb" has some simple advice.(REDO YOU)

As many former smokers will tell you, addiction to nicotine is one of the hardest to overcome, in part because smoking is a physical and behavioral compulsion. While our natural tendency may be to reach for a quick fix--i.e., a drug--keep in mind that the success rate may be less than 50 percent with this and similar therapies. Drugs will not address underlying behaviors, and many have side effects. If you are ready for a natural approach, these five techniques can help you quit smoking, not to mention lose weight, improve your skin and just plain feel better.

1. Change behaviors connected to a habit. For example, substitute walking during what used to be a smoke break. This encourages a healthy habit while also getting rid of an unhealthy one. In Darla's case, the desire to smoke is strongest after dinner or when drinking. Giving up alcohol for three months while kicking smoking is a smart solution. Also, instead of lighting up after a meal, brew a cup of chamomile or peppermint tea. This is a nurturing ritual that can help with relaxation and digestion.

Another option is hypnotherapy, which works on an unconscious level to change unhealthy habits. It is thought to be especially effective for smoking cessation and weight loss (especially for compulsive overeaters).

2. Supplement smarter. A high-potency multivitamin/antioxidant formula is essential for Darla's. Premature aging and wrinkling may be the result of nutritional deficiencies connected to smoking. I recommend 2g of vitamin C daily over the next three months and then a daily dose of 1g. Darla needs to get adequate folic acid (800mcg), zinc (15-30mg), calcium (1000mg), magnesium (750mg), selenium (200mcg), vitamin E (400IU), and vitamins B1 (50mg) and B2 (50mg) daily. Vitamins B3 (niacin), B6 and B12 are also important for cellular rejuvenation.

Research reveals the herb lobelia may ease withdrawal from nicotine. St. John's wort and ginseng have been shown to help smokers kick the habit. Acupuncture has also been found to be effective.

3. Eat clean. A whole foods diet is best for Darla (and anyone who wants to lose weight). It should include fruits and vegetables with a high water content, such as apples, pears, pineapples, salads, and dark-green leafy veggies like broccoli, kale, cabbage and spinach. These foods are full of nutrients that help reduce risks for heart disease and certain cancers. Cardiovascular disease is a big problem for smokers and should be addressed nutritionally. Lean proteins (chicken, turkey, fish and beef), legumes, raw nuts and seeds, and whole grains like broken rice, quinoa and whole-wheat pasta are all great choices. Limit caffeinated beverages and avoid soda. Water, sparkling water, herbal tea and ...