Have you ever been bitten by the nicotine bug? I have, we all know it's bad for you so why do we do it?
In this episode, I share my journey with nicotine products, how I manage cravings and why I think humans do it to ourselves.
Nicotine is a highly addictive chemical found in tobacco and is the primary reason people become dependent on smoking and vaping. It acts as a stimulant and a depressant, affecting the brain in multiple ways. When inhaled, nicotine rapidly enters the bloodstream and reaches the brain within seconds, triggering the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine, which creates feelings of pleasure and reward. This process reinforces the habit, making it difficult to quit.
One of nicotine’s key effects on the brain is its impact on the dopaminergic system, which is associated with addiction. Over time, regular nicotine use alters brain chemistry, leading to increased tolerance and dependency. The brain starts to rely on nicotine to release dopamine, reducing its ability to generate these feelings naturally. This leads to withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, anxiety, difficulty concentrating, and cravings when nicotine levels drop.
Nicotine also affects cognitive function. Some studies suggest short-term improvements in attention and memory, but long-term use can contribute to cognitive decline and an increased risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s. Young people and adolescents are particularly vulnerable since nicotine can disrupt brain development, impacting impulse control and increasing the risk of future substance abuse.
Statistics on Nicotine Use and Effects
• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), tobacco use kills more than 8 million people annually, including 1.3 million non-smokers exposed to secondhand smoke.
• The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that around 90% of adult smokers started smoking before age 18.
• A 2021 study found that over 20% of high school students in the U.S. reported using e-cigarettes, highlighting the rise of nicotine addiction among youth.
• Studies show that nicotine withdrawal symptoms peak within the first 1-3 days of quitting and can last for weeks, making quitting challenging.
While nicotine provides temporary stimulation, its long-term effects on the brain and overall health make it a significant public health concern.
How did you get off nicotine?
