Flavored cigarettes have gained popularity among millennials due to their enticing taste. However, these cigarettes, including e-cigarettes, have been banned in many countries due to their negative impact on public health. While flavored cigarettes may offer a more pleasant smoking experience, there are potential dangers associated with them, particularly menthol cigarettes.

The Appeal of Flavored Cigarettes

Flavored cigarettes attract consumers with their wide range of tastes, from herbal and fruity to chocolate and candy. These flavors eliminate the issue of bad breath commonly associated with regular cigarettes, making smoking a more enjoyable experience. Additionally, menthol or mint is often added to create a cooling effect in the throat, reducing throat irritation and coughing.

You are reading: Prefer smoking menthols? Here’s why those minty cigarettes are actually worse

The Hidden Dangers of Menthol Cigarettes

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While menthol itself is harmless and processed by the liver, the cooling effect it leaves in the throat can be more detrimental than beneficial. Studies have shown that the cooling effect of menthol cigarettes leads people to inhale more smoke in a single drag compared to non-menthol cigarettes. This means they are exposed to higher amounts of tobacco, tar, nicotine, carbon monoxide, and other toxic and carcinogenic substances found in cigarettes.

Taking in larger quantities of these harmful substances can lead to a faster addiction and increased smoking. Therefore, the long-term effects of smoking menthol cigarettes are not significantly different from those of regular cigarettes and can even be worse in some cases. However, it is important to note that the overall harm of cigarettes depends on various factors, including individual smoking habits and cigarette design.

E-cigarettes: Not a Safe Alternative

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E-cigarettes, also known as vaping devices, have emerged as an alternative to traditional cigarettes. However, they still pose health risks. Although they do not contain tobacco, e-cigarettes burn liquid nicotine with added flavorings. Continuous nicotine consumption, regardless of the form, is detrimental to both physical and mental health.

The Unavoidable Risks of Smoking

Whether you smoke non-menthol, menthol, or use e-cigarettes, all forms of smoking have been strongly linked to life-threatening diseases such as various cancers, type-2 diabetes, respiratory disorders, vision issues, and a decreased life expectancy. Smoking is also the leading avoidable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and can negatively impact mental health, increasing anxiety levels and the risk of clinical depression.

In conclusion, there is no safe alternative to smoking cigarettes. It is crucial to monitor your tobacco and nicotine intake. If you find yourself addicted to tobacco products and wish to quit, seeking help from a healthcare professional or support group is essential. They can provide guidance to help you quit smoking, manage withdrawal symptoms, and reduce the chances of relapse. Remember, your health and well-being are the most important things to prioritize.

Sources: https://ncvc.org
Category: Health