In recent years, people all across the country have attempted to shrug off smoking as the price of a carton increases and many become more concerned about their health.
It has been well known for years that smoking cigarettes is bad for you but quitting can be very difficult.
Cigarettes are extremely addictive, making it nearly impossible for some to quit but there are several tips to help you on your journey.
With that said, here are some tips and tricks to help you quit as well as the answer to the age-old question of cigarettes vs vapes.
Is vaping better for you than smoking cigarettes?
According to Navin Khosla, a pharmacist at Now Patient, smoking cigarettes and vaping are harmful to your health.
The expert explains: "Neither smoking nor vaping is beneficial to human health, but experts agree vaping is less harmful than smoking, as vapes do not produce tar or carbon monoxide. Whilst e-cigarette aerosol generally contains fewer chemicals than regular cigarettes, they are still not risk-free, particularly for people who have never smoked before."
However, Khosla noted that vape users can increase the amount of nicotine they receive from their devices, causing more health issues.
Adding: "The primary agent in both regular cigarettes and e-cigarettes is nicotine. However, vape users can buy extra-strength cartridges, which have a higher concentration of nicotine, or increase the vape’s voltage to get a bigger hit of the substance.
"This means vape users can expose themselves to even more nicotine than they would from a combustible tobacco product.
"This highly addictive substance impairs the function of the body's blood vessels and increases blood pressure making you more at risk of cardiovascular disease, strokes, and abnormal heart rhythm."
There are also concerns that vapes are creating a new generation of nicotine-addicted people with 8.6% of 11 to 18-year-olds occasionally or regularly vaping.
The expert finished by saying: "Lastly, vaping has not been around for long enough to fully know the risks of long-term use, and more research is needed to understand them.
"Currently, researchers have linked vaping to serious side effects like heart, lung, and neurological injuries that could cause long-term problems. So whilst they may seem a better alternative to smoking, their long-term effects are still unknown and so should be avoided, especially by non-smokers, wherever possible.”
What are the best ways to stop smoking as experts share tips?
Here are some tips to quit smoking as shared by the expert:
Understand the positives of quitting
It can be hard to motivate yourself to quit smoking, making it easy for you to fall back into your old habit.
By reminding yourself of the health and financial benefits, you can maintain focus on your goal of quitting.
Tell loved ones you have quit
By telling everyone around you the good news, you can maintain motivation and gain access to support from friends and family.
Don't feel influenced by those around you
Social situations can be a minefield for those trying to quit smoking as drinking and peer pressure can cause ex-smokers to start again.
By occupying yourself with chewing gum or removing yourself from the situation, you will increase your chances of quitting for good.
Keep active and exercise
Idleness and boredom can make it tempting to smoke which is why keeping your mind occupied with a healthier hobby or exercise can be beneficial.
Make use of resources and support groups
It's important to utilise online resources and support groups so you can talk about your cravings and find support from people in the same situation as yourself.
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