1. Nicotine Is A Drug
Nicotine is one of many chemicals in tobacco. It's a stimulant, and as such, causes the user to feel more alert, although some describe a feeling of relaxation as well. It is a mood-altering drug that makes people feel good temporarily, which is why it is so addicting. Nicotine has also been shown to have short-term antidepressant qualities. Some people may smoke or chew tobacco as a means of self-medicating if they are depressed.
2. Nicotine Is Highly Addicting
Nicotine causes the release of dopamine, a chemical in the brain that makes you feel good, which is why people go back for more. The powerful addiction to nicotine has been compared to that of cocaine, which has a similar effect on the brain.
How do you know if you're addicted? If you've tried to quit and can't. Smokers can experience withdrawal systems such as irritability, anxiety, nervousness, difficulty concentrating, restlessness, increased appetite and cravings.
3. Nicotine Is Harmful, But Tobacco Is Worse
Most of the health problems related to tobacco use are caused by smoking or chewing and the other toxic components in tobacco. The most harmful effect of nicotine is that it's highly addictive nature makes people keep smoking, which is bad for their health in many ways. Smoking shaves years off your life. Studies have shown that smokers live an average of 14 years less than non-smokers.
Nicotine itself does cause increased blood pressure, heart rate and respiration, and can be harmful to the cardiovascular system, including increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
4. Nicotine Replacement Drugs Can Help
Since nicotine by itself is not nearly as harmful to the body as smoking, slowly weaning yourself off nicotine can be accomplished with the help of nicotine replacement therapy. This is usually in the form of nicotine gum, lozenges or skin patches. There are also nicotine nasal sprays and inhalers. Most of these therapies are used for 2 to 6 months, gradually decreasing over time.
5. Just Say No
When it comes to smoking and chewing tobacco, prevention is key. Be a good example for your kids. Teenagers with two parents who smoke are twice as likely to start themselves. Those with friends who smoke are also more likely to start. The younger you start smoking, the greater the chance you'll end up being a heavy smoker. If you want to avoid nicotine dependence and the harmful effects of tobacco use on your body, don't get started in the first place.
