Smoking has many ill effects, many of which can lead to life-threatening problems like lung cancer, heart disease, and emphysema. It also has an impact on your eating habits and energy levels. Nicotine and toxic ingredients in cigarettes hinder the absorption of nutrients and steal vitamins and minerals from the body. As per the data published in the journal Science, nicotine does this by changing receptors in the hypothalamus that are involved in hunger and satiety.

Smoking affects the taste buds

Smoking releases nicotine to the brain and suppresses a person’s capability to taste flavours. The reduced oxygen supply from inhaling tobacco smoke contributes to the lowering of flavour in the mouth. When a person stops smoking, they regain their taste buds and can savour foods better.

Smoking diminishes your sense of smell

Smoking damages the nasal passage which can cause inflammation and diminish your sense of smell.

Smoking decreases the body’s absorption of nutrients

Smoking changes the body’s ability to absorb vitamins and minerals. It reduces Vitamin D absorption which increases the risk of osteoporosis in a smoker. Studies have found that smoking cigarettes drains out a large amount of Vitamin C.

Smoking also disturbs blood circulation by causing the blood vessels to narrow and become blocked because of fatty deposits. Quitting smoking is an effective way to prevent deficiencies of nutrients.

Smoking affects your energy and fitness levels

Quitting smoking has a massive impact on a person’s well-being, energy levels and increases fitness. You might be low on energy for a couple of weeks and will find yourself battling the urge to smoke, but the good news is that in just 48 hours of stopping, lungs start to clear, breathing becomes easier, and energy levels as well as fitness improves.

It’s not easy, but quitting smoking delivers immediate health benefits.