Nicotine, friend or foe?

Nicotine, friend or foe?

We too often tend to conflate nicotine with the dangers associated with tobacco consumption. Yet nicotine is also considered an essential ally in smoking cessation. But in that case, is it truly harmful to health? Le Vapoteur Discount sets the record straight about this controversial substance!

Nicotine, a substance dangerous to health?

Nicotine is an alkaloid naturally found in the tobacco plant. If this molecule is considered harmful, it is mainly due to its highly addictive nature. Indeed, it is very rapidly absorbed by the body; it takes less than 10 seconds to reach the brain when inhaled. This psychoactive substance is therefore considered a drug, given that it can be the source of both behavioural, psychological and physical dependence. 

On the other hand, and as recalled by this article from the French Federation of Cardiology, the nicotine contained in cigarettes also affects the respiratory and cardiovascular system. The method of administering the molecule is indeed directly responsible for an increase in heart rate and blood pressure, caused by an excessively high and sudden concentration of nicotine in the bloodstream. This is why, for example, physical exercise is contraindicated before or after consuming nicotine by inhalation. Indeed, doctors recommend allowing a 2-hour window without smoking before and after any physical activity. The same article notes that each year, 1,200 to 1,500 smokers die suddenly as a result of a stroke occurring during or following physical exertion. 

Nicotine is not as dangerous as we think

Beyond the standard recommendations, it is important to know that nicotine poses no direct health risk at the dose absorbed by smokers; at high doses, nicotine absorption can, in the worst case, cause nausea. Thus, although nicotine is directly associated with the problem, the real danger lies solely in cigarette consumption, which is highly harmful due to combustion and the inhalation of tobacco smoke, which contains more than 7,000 chemical substances; of which at least more than 300 are harmful and carcinogenic according to this source. 

Nicotine is therefore not the enemy we so greatly fear, and is even recognised for its many benefits on the body: feelings of relaxation, pleasure, intellectual stimulation, appetite-suppressing effect, anti-stress and antidepressant properties, muscle relaxant, etc. It simply contributes to maintaining dependence on the harmful product that is tobacco. Furthermore, it is worth knowing that cigarette manufacturers add substances that accelerate the process of nicotine absorption by the body, with the aim of making smokers increasingly dependent.

When used wisely, nicotine proves to be a valuable ally in smoking cessation. It is also highly effective in helping smokers quit cigarettes through vaping; since the inhalation method of administration is the same with an e-cigarette as with a traditional cigarette. Conversely, nicotine will not act as quickly or effectively on the brain with other nicotine replacement therapies (patches, gums, etc.). It is therefore this difference in absorption time and effectiveness that mainly explains why these solutions are less effective for quitting smoking; as they encourage the ex-smoker to revert to old habits. Similarly, it is not advisable to reduce the nicotine dosage too quickly when using an electronic cigarette; as there is a risk of relapsing into tobacco use.

What nicotine dosage should I choose for my e-liquid?

E-liquids can have a higher or lower nicotine content. A specific dosage is recommended based on each individual's needs. "Heavy smokers", who were used to consuming more than 20 cigarettes per day, can opt for a dosage between 16 and 18 mg/ml to feel "satisfied" with their nicotine intake. An e-liquid containing between 11 and 12 mg/ml of nicotine may suit "average smokers", who consumed between 10 and 20 cigarettes per day. "Moderate smokers" who did not exceed 10 cigarettes per day can turn to e-liquids with a nicotine dosage of around 6 mg/ml. E-liquids containing 3 mg/ml of nicotine will satisfy "occasional smokers", who did not exceed 5 cigarettes per day. Finally, an e-liquid at 0 mg/ml of nicotine marks the success of smoking cessation! It is ideal for vapers looking for a flavourful vape with absolutely no nicotine content!

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Feel free to check out our article about the location of the e-cigarette and e-liquid shop Le Vapoteur Discount!

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