Tobacco is a plant-based drug that contains nicotine, which is the addictive substance in cigarettes. Cigarettes contain much more than just nicotine, though. They also include tar, preservatives, and chemicals that are carcinogens, meaning that they cause cancer.
Alcohol is a depressant, meaning it slows the functioning of the mind and the body. It decreases the activity between the brain’s neurons, which control all of the body’s functions. Even a small amount of alcohol can cause side effects such as dizziness, giddiness, and sleepiness.
The Risks of Smoking and Drinking
Smoking and drinking are seen by many as complimentary: two habits that go hand in hand. While people who smoke are more likely to drink and vice-versa, this definitely isn’t a good idea. Smoking is dangerous, drinking is dangerous, and doing both is even worse.
Limit Alcohol and Tobacco Use
The Dietary Guidelines recommend that the following individuals should NOT drink for any reason:
- Individuals younger than age 21.
- If you are pregnant.
- If you are suffering from certain medical conditions.
Treatment for Addiction to Tobacco and Alcohol
If you are addicted to tobacco and alcohol, help is available. The effects of mixing tobacco and alcohol should not be taken lightly. Quitting smoking and drinking is the best thing you can do for your health, but if you can’t do either or both of these, minimizing the risks to your health should be the next big priority.
Quitting smoking: 5 ways to resist tobacco cravings
Try nicotine replacement therapy
Ask your doctor about nicotine replacement therapy.
Chew on it
Give your mouth something to do to fight a tobacco craving. Chew on sugarless gum or hard candy, or munch on raw carrots, celery, nuts or sunflower seeds — something crunchy and satisfying.
Don’t have ‘just one’
You might be tempted to have just one cigarette to satisfy a tobacco craving. But don’t fool yourself into believing that you can stop there. More often than not, having just one leads to another— and you may end up using tobacco again.
Get physical
Physical activity can help distract you from tobacco cravings and reduce their intensity. Even short burst of physical activity — such as running up and down the stairs a few times — can make a tobacco craving go away. Get out for a walk or jog. If physical activity doesn’t interest you, try prayer, needlework, woodwork or journaling or even go for meditation.
Remind yourself of the benefits
Write down or say out loud the reasons you want to stop smoking and resist tobacco cravings. These might include:
- Feeling better
- Getting healthier
- Sparing your loved ones from secondhand smoke
- Saving money
Remember, trying something to beat the urge is always better than doing nothing. And each time you resist a tobacco craving, you’re one step closer to being totally tobacco-free.