What is vaping and how does it work?
By inhaling and exhaling vapor from an electronic device such as a vape pen or e-cigarette, vaping provides an experience similar to smoking without the combustion (burning). Usually containing nicotine, propylene glycol, and flavourings, these liquids are heated in the device so that users can then inhale it.
The nicotine found in vape juice is what gives users their “hit” or sensation. While considered safe by the FDA, it is important to remember that nicotine is addictive and can have negative long-term health effects.
Propylene glycol creates vapour when heated which could irritate sensitive throats of lungs of some users. Common flavorings include mint, chocolate and multiple kinds of fruits; natural and synthetic base flavourings both exist.
The effects of vaping on your body
Vaping may be less harmful than smoking cigarettes, but it can still cause some short-term effects on your body. It may increase your heart rate and blood pressure, as well as decrease your lung function and irritate the throat and lungs. If you suffer from asthma or another lung condition, vaping can worsen already existing symptoms.
While some people use it with the intention of quitting smoking cigarettes, research has proven that vaping is not an effective method for smoking cessation. Since individuals who vape are no more likely to quit cigarette smoking than those who do not vape.
Does vaping make you gain weight?
No evidence suggests that vaping causes weight gain. In fact, a study found that people who vape are less likely to be obese than non-vapers.
It is important to consider, however, that this study did not compare vapers to smokers. So it is possible that vapers are avoiding the negative health effects of smoking cigarettes by using a vaping device and thus have lower obesity rates.
If you are concerned about gaining weight from vaping, be sure to choose a flavor that does not contribute to an increased appetite as usually smoking decreases it.
However, there is a selection of vape flavors available on the market that can in fact enhance your appetite. Nicotine’s effects on weight are twofold; it can both increase your metabolism, causing weight loss, and stimulate appetite which can lead to counteracting the weight loss.
Cortisol levels impact on weight gain
Smoking and vaping increases cortisol levels. It is a stress hormone that is produced by the adrenal gland. Cortisol levels can become elevated in times of stress, and chronic elevations in cortisol have been linked to weight gain.
Cortisol has been linked to both an increase in appetite and a buildup of abdominal fat, as well as interfering with the body’s capacity to metabolize fat. This may explain why cortisol levels can contribute to weight gain.
The elevation of cortisol levels commonly accompanies obesity as it increases insulin levels, encouraging the body to store fat. Although weight gain is highly dependent on various elements, this can help explain why obese individuals often possess higher cortisol concentrations than thin people.
For example, genetics, lifestyle choices such as vaping or smoking, and other hormonal imbalances can all play a role in weight gain. Therefore, it is important to speak with a healthcare provider if you are concerned about your weight.
How to vape safely
Vaping has gained prominence as an alternative method of consuming nicotine, particularly among people who are attempting to give up smoking cigarettes and teenagers. Before you begin vaping, however, it is important to be aware of a few potential safety concerns.
It is imperative to do your research and purchase a quality device from a reliable manufacturer when choosing the right device, as some devices can heat nicotine liquid to hazardous temperatures that may be damaging to your lungs.
Second, be careful about what liquids you use. Some liquids contain harmful chemicals that can be dangerous when inhaled. Again, do your research and only purchase liquids from companies that you trust.
It is important to remember to not overindulge in vaping, as moderation is key to maintaining safety with this practice. To ensure health protection, be mindful of the number of puffs taken and the types of substances inhaled. If these steps are taken into consideration, you will be able to enjoy vaping without risking your well being.
It is crucial to recognize that no proof exists indicating vaping is safe. In reality, expanding amounts of evidence point to it potentially having damaging effects on your health. Consequently, if you are considering vaping, consulting a healthcare provider prior is essential since latent health issues can make vaping more hazardous.
For example if you suffer from asthma or a similar lung condition, vaping can increase the danger of potentially fatal asthma attacks. Additionally, those with heart conditions are in jeopardy of having a heart attack when vaping.
The benefits of vaping over smoking cigarettes
Though cigarettes have been the traditional way to consume nicotine, vaping has become a popular alternative in recent years. And for good reason – vaping has a number of advantages over smoking cigarettes.
Less chemicals
Vaping reduces the amount of dangerous chemicals present in cigarettes, which can contain more than 4,000 compounds like arsenic, formaldehyde and lead. Public Health England conducted a study that shows e-cigarettes are 95% less hazardous than traditional tobacco products.
Less addictive
Additionally, vaping can be less addictive than smoking cigarettes due to smokers developing a tolerance to nicotine, which causes them to need increased amounts of it in order to feel satisfied.
Less tolerance
However, vapers are less likely to develop a tolerance, making it easier for them to control their nicotine intake since vaping delivers nicotine more efficiently than smoking. Consequently, vaping can pose as a less addictive alternative of consuming nicotine compared to cigarettes.
Cheaper
Another benefit is that vaping is cheaper than smoking cigarettes. A pack of cigarettes typically costs around $6, while a bottle of e-liquid can last for weeks and only costs about $20.
No unpleasant smell
Additionally, vaping does not produce the unpleasant smell of cigarette smoke, which can be a major benefit for those who want to consume nicotine without annoyance for those around them.
Conclusion on benefits vaping over cigarettes
If you are thinking about using vaping as an alternative to smoking cigarettes, it is essential to be aware of the potential risks and benefits. Before deciding whether to engage in vaping, make sure to consult with a healthcare professional regarding the hazards and advantages that come along with it.
Remember, vaping may not necessarily be beneficial for your health or a way to relinquish smoking cigarettes; instead, it can actually pose some health risks.
Conclusion on does vaping make you gain weight
You can enjoy vaping safely by taking certain precautions. First, make sure to choose the right device and purchase liquids from reputable companies. Second, don’t overdo it – vape in moderation. Finally, if you have any underlying health conditions or concerns, speak with a healthcare provider before beginning to vape. There is no evidence that vaping causes weight gain; however, these steps can ensure that your health remains protected when you start vaping.
