Tobacco’s Side Effects- Why You Need To Reduce Tobacco Consumption Today

You may have heard that ’a pinch of tobacco can spice up your life’ or ’a good smoke relieves stress.’ However, tobacco consumption has been linked to various life-threatening diseases with severe consequences. In recent years, nicotine gums have emerged as its viable alternatives. 

Overview of Tobacco

The tobacco plant is primarily grown for its leaves, used for smoking, chewing, or snuffing. Native to the Americas, today, it is grown the world over, with the largest producers being China, India, Brazil, and the United States.

Tobacco use has a long history and has been used for various purposes, including medicinal and religious rituals. However, its recreational drug use and addictive properties have made it a major public health concern. The most common methods of its use are smoking, chewing, and snuffing. 

Efforts to reduce tobacco use include public education campaigns, increased taxation, smoke-free policies, and tobacco advertising and promotion restrictions. While there’s been some progress in reducing its use, it remains a significant public health challenge worldwide.

Tobacco Use in India

Tobacco consumption has long been a part of Indian culture and is linked to religious and social traditions. The consumption of paan, gutka, and beedi are markers of social status and bonhomie- the failure to consume is often a source of shame and alienation. 

Unfortunately, tobacco consumption can lead to many long-term health issues like cancer, cardiovascular disease, and respiratory problems. Additionally, it can lead to higher risks of addiction, anxiety, and depression.

Effects of Tobacco on the Body

Tobacco use can have a wide range of adverse effects on the human body. Some of the most significant health risks associated with its use include the following:

• Increased Cancer Risk: Tobacco use is estimated to be responsible for approximately 1 in 3 cancer deaths and is the leading cause of preventable cancer worldwide. Smoking is the most significant risk factor for lung cancer, but it can also increase the risk of other cancers, like bladder, mouth, throat, oesophagal, pancreatic, kidney, and cervical cancer.
• Cardiovascular Disease: Tobacco use is a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke. Smoking damages the lining of blood vessels, leading to plaque buildup and a higher risk of blood clots. 

• Respiratory Problems: Smoking can cause respiratory problems such as chronic bronchitis and emphysema. It can also aggravate asthma and increase the risk of respiratory infections such as pneumonia.

• Reproductive Problems: Tobacco use can lead to fertility problems in both men and women. It can also increase the risk of premature birth, low birth weight, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) in pregnant women.

• Dental Problems: Tobacco use can cause dental problems such as gum disease, tooth loss, and oral cancer.

• Skin Damage: Smoking causes premature ageing and skin damage, including wrinkles and age spots.

• Mental Health:Tobacco use increases the risk of anxiety, depression, and other mental health problems. In addition, it significantly impacts the quality of life, including reduced physical fitness, decreased sense of taste and smell, and lowered lung capacity.

Why Should Tobacco Use Be Reduced?

• Health risks: As mentioned earlier, tobacco use is associated with many health risks. Reducing its use can help to prevent these health risks and improve overall health outcomes.
• Economic costs: Tobacco use is also associated with high financial costs, including increased healthcare costs, productivity loss due to illness and premature death. 
• Environmental Impact: Tobacco production, packaging, and consumption can also negatively impact the environment. Tobacco farming often involves heavy pesticides and fertiliser usage, harming local ecosystems and contaminating water sources. 

How Can Nicotine Gum Help You Quit Chewing Tobacco?

NRT (Nicotine Replacement Therapy) is designed to help people quit tobacco through nicotine replacement products. NRT products like gums, patches, lozenges, etc., provide the body with a low level of nicotine to reduce withdrawal symptoms and cravings, making it easier to quit smoking or use other tobacco products.

Nicotine gum is an effective aid for quitting tobacco, as it helps to reduce cravings and provides a less harmful source of nicotine. It can also reduce the physical symptoms of withdrawal, like headaches, fatigue, and irritability. The gum helps provide behavioural support by enabling tobacco replacement with nicotine gum instead.

The goal of nicotine gum is to gradually reduce the nicotine levels in the body while providing just enough to ease withdrawal symptoms and cravings. They should be used with other strategies, such as behavioural support, to increase the chances of success. Over time, as the body becomes less dependent, the dosage of NRT can be reduced until the person no longer needs any kind.

Conclusion

RYZE nicotine gums are becoming popular with those serious about quitting tobacco. These gums are specially formulated to deliver nicotine safely, reducing the risk of addiction and overdose. Various flavours cater to the different needs of individuals looking to reduce their tobacco use.By switching to RYZE nicotine gums, you can be tobacco-free and enjoy a healthier, more fulfilling lifestyle.