Is vaping effective for adult smoking cessation? Nicotine addicts trying hard to kick the smoking habit ask this question all the time. It is understandable that they are looking for some method that can help in switching to a healthier lifestyle. But, as any smoker will tell you, the battle is lifelong. And, it’s unbelievably easy to slide back into old habits. Although vaping enthusiasts talk about how to make the transition by taking up e-cigarettes, research is as yet incomplete on their efficacy as nicotine replacement therapy.
Scientists are studying the complete effects of e-liquids and their components on the human body. But, the one fact that is undisputed is that vaping is definitely not recommended for pregnant and people aged 21 years and below. Here’s some added information you might find interesting.
Cigarettes or E-Cigs – What’s More Harmful?
When you’re searching for adult smoking cessation tools, you’ll want to choose options that are less harmful. Conventional cigarettes contain around 7,000 chemicals and nicotine is only one of them. Research clearly shows that combusting tobacco and other ingredients releases tar and other harmful chemicals. These substances build up inside the lung tissues damaging alveoli or air sacs so they can no longer absorb oxygen, and release carbon dioxide and other by-products of respiration. Nicotine entering your bloodstream affects the organs leading to cancer and various other illnesses.
How does vaping compare? E-liquids are not entirely safe and studies are still in progress. Some of the main ingredients in e-juices such as vitamin E acetate and diacetyl are known to have harmful effects when inhaled. Further, other components like propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin are safe as food additives or for topical application. But, they are not designed for inhaling. As long as you use vaping for only a short time as an adult smoking cessation tool, it should be safer.
Choosing the Right Vape Brands is Critical
Here’s another factor to keep in mind. The vaping industry has a mind-boggling variety of brands, some manufactured locally and others imported from different countries. Each brand has different ranges of e-juices and e-liquids with varying compositions. It is almost impossible to have a general overview about which products are harmful and safe. Your best option is to choose reputable brands, preferably manufactured with stringent quality control measures. In addition to considering the manufacturing origin, it’s also beneficial to explore user reviews and testimonials. Platforms like online forums and dedicated vaping communities often provide valuable insights into the performance, flavor, and safety of specific products. For instance, seeking out a stlth 5k review can offer firsthand experiences and opinions that contribute to a more well-rounded understanding of the available vaping options. Keep in mind that making informed decisions not only enhances your vaping experience but also prioritizes your safety and well-being.
Keeping a Close Watch on Nicotine Levels is Very Essential
Smokers typically experience a dry, raspy feeling at the back of their throats when inhaling cigarette smoke. This “throat tickle” becomes a part of the habit and most smokers actually need that irritation to satiate their nicotine cravings. Transitioning to e-cigs with nicotine salts takes away the discomfort and inhaling vape clouds is a smooth experience. The sensation of soft clouds of vapor is more enjoyable, which is one of the reasons why vaping can get out of control.
You’ll also want to know that a single disposable e-cig, like the kinds available at Blackout Vapors, contain enough nicotine equivalent to 20 conventional cigarettes. You could go through an entire vape without noticing the actual amount of nicotine you’re consuming. If you’re trying to kick the smoking habit, take care to choose e-juices that have low nic levels. In case your vaping session lasts longer than intended, keeping control on the nicotine absorbed is easier.
Be Wary of Dual Nicotine Usage
When you’re trying to kill nicotine addiction, it is very essential that you use only one form of usage. For instance, your general physician may suggest trying gums, patches, or medications to help control your cravings. Counselling and support groups are also recommended. If you do start vaping as an adult smoking cessation option, remember not to combine cigarettes and e-cigs, and keep switching between the two. Many users end up absorbing far more nicotine without realizing it.
Statistics show that 19% of smokers who used vaping as a nicotine replacement option managed to kick the habit and were smoke-free after a year. Patches and gums have only a 9% success rate in helping nicotine addicts kick the habit completely. Of course, you’ll find it easier to quit smoking successfully if you try any adult smoking cessation method along with Behavior Counseling.
Make a Lifelong Commitment to a Smoke-Free Lifestyle
Regardless of whether you’ve chosen vaping or any other strategy for quitting smoking, it takes lifelong commitment and determination. For instance, create a timeline for phasing out e-cigs also. Start with higher levels of nicotine and gradually move to successively lower levels until the percentage stands at 0%. Once your body adapts, shorten the vaping sessions and give it up entirely.
Use Vaping as a Adult Smoking Cessation Tool with Care
Here are some additional tips for quitting smoking with vaping, safely.
- Store your vape pens, e-cigs, and mods along with other supplies in a place where kids and pets can’t get into them.
- Be sensitive to people around you. Look for designated smoking and vaping areas and ask permission before indulging.
- Plug in your vapes for charging where you can keep an eye on them. Use batteries and other things only as directed. You risk burning and fires without adequate safety precautions.
- Dispose off used devices responsibly. Know that most vapes contain lithium ion batteries that can damage the environment. Recycle as directed on the packaging.
- Avoid experimenting with e-liquid blends if you’re not sure about their effects.
- Even if you’ve chosen 0% nicotine e-liquids, some brands add trace amounts, so choose the products with care.
- Break your dependence by eliminating the triggers. If stress makes you crave nicotine, choose anxiety-relieving options like working out, connecting with friends, yoga, or listening to music.
Vaping can be an effective option for helping you give up smoking permanently. But, do be cautious about kicking one addiction only to take up another. Make the switch, but only with an exit plan that you’ve carefully worked out in advance.
