Smoking busting the myths
Tuesday, 11 Jan 2022
Ever since smoking was branded as "cool" by advertisers and celebrities, health advocates have been working to bust the myths that surround this dangerous, if not deadly, habit.
Let’s start busting myths…
1. Weight gain trumps the benefits of quitting
On average, a smoker can gain 5kg when quitting smoking, but the benefits – longer life expectancy, lung capacity and brighter teeth to name a few – of quitting smoking far outweigh any potential weight gain.
So if you’re about to quit, stock up on healthy foods and plan to be active!
2. Roll-ups are a healthier option
A huge misconception – while some homemade or organic foods are better for you than store-bought options, there is no such thing as a healthy cigarette.
3. Smoking relieves stress
For some, a cigarette at the end of a stressful day may feel like a release. In reality, your heart rate and your blood pressure actually rise.
The release your feeling is subsidising your nicotine withdrawals. The answer to that is a distraction.
Take a walk, have a shower, get active, sing, dance…anything to avoid it. Do it often enough to break the habit.
4. It’s ok, I’m just a “social smoker”
There’s no healthy level of smoking. Every cigarette does your body damage – and you’re risking developing a dangerous habit.
5. The damage is done, there’s no point quitting now
You’re right, you are already at risk but the benefits are instant!
Your heart rate with reducing within 20 minutes, the carbon monoxide in your blood drops in less than a day and by this time next year, your risk of heart disease will be half what it is today.
There’s no such thing as healthy (or healthier smoking)
