Nicotine is a chemical substance present in tobacco products and their derivatives. After usage, it reaches the brain within seconds and increases the release of neurotransmitters that help to change the mode and behavior of a person. Nowadays, nicotine comes in a pouch called a nicotine pouch.
Nicotine pouches are proportioned pouches containing nicotine powder that is synthetic or extracted from tobacco. These pouches are white in color and there is no tobacco leaf, dust, or stem called the tobacco-free version of snus. Nicotine pouches are long-lasting and have a longer shelf life than conventional snus.
Nicotine pouches do not contain tobacco but they contain flavors, sweeteners, plant fibers, and nicotine. The packaging of nicotine pouches is safer for oral usage and does not decompose by human saliva. Velo, Zyn, On! are the brands that market and sell nicotine pouches.
Mis-understanding about Nicotine
There is a common belief among people that nicotine causes cancer. According to the national survey of one thousand physicians in 2020, eighty percents of them believe that nicotine is responsible for cancer but it is not true. There are several components present in tobacco that are carcinogens. In 2017, former FDA commissioner, Scott Gottlieb clarified that nicotine is not itself responsible for diseases. However, nicotine in cigarettes is not directly causing mouth or lung cancer or heart diseases.
On the other hand, nicotine pouches are free from the toxic material from the tobacco leaf, etc. Even they are not inhaled into the lungs like the smoke of cigarettes. Nicotine pouches are the least harmful as compared to cigarettes. It is the best alternative to stop smoking and reduce the diseases causing factors, such as smoke, tar, carcinogen substances, etc.
How to Use Nicotine Pouches?
Oral nicotine pouches are very popular and are placed between the gum and the upper or lower lip. Within a few seconds, these pouches released their chemical content like nicotine, sweet flavors, etc. After using, nicotine pouches are disposed of in the trash.
There is a misconception that nicotine pouches are chewing tobacco but it is not. There is no need to spit because the content of nicotine pouches remains inside the pouches. Chemical content includes a food-grade filter, water, salt, flavoring, and nicotine. The flavors of nicotine pouches in the market are black cherry, coffee, citrus, peppermint, etc.
Are nicotine pouches safer than chewing tobacco and smoking?
Smoking and tobacco products are the causes of serious problems like mouth and lung cancer, etc. This is because, besides nicotine, they have some other ingredients and side effects. However, nicotine pouches have no smoking effects or serious side effects but still, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not regulate nicotine pouches as strictly as smoked or tobacco products.
Side effects of nicotine pouches
Nicotine pouches have also some side effects but are not too serious. These are the major side effects of heavy usage of nicotine pouches:
- Sore throat
- Hiccups
- Nausea
- Addiction
- Gum irritation
Nicotine pouches as an alternative way for the heavy smokers
As mentioned above, heavy usage of nicotine leads to some problems but still, it is an alternative way to quit heavy smoking. If a person consumes 10-15 cigarettes in a day, it is good to use nicotine pouches instead of cigarettes on the recommendation of consulting doctor.
The usage of nicotine pouches is also an alternative therapy for heavy smokers. Similarly, if a person is addicted to other addictions as well as nicotine pouches then they should use these short-term nicotine therapies:
- Nicotine patches
- Lozenges
- Nicotine nasal spray
- Nicotine inhaler
- Nicotine gums
How to survive without Nicotine
Heavy usage of nicotine pouches causes addiction that so it is important to avoid nicotine as well. These are the best tips for surviving without nicotine:
- Delay or distract yourself to avoid nicotine or smoking.
- Prepare physically and mentally to leave them.
- Use meditation and deep breathing to focus your skills and energy.
- Try to busy yourself with new activities.
- Changing routines is the best way to avoid nicotine.
- Drink water and eat healthy food.
Concepts Berg
What is inside nicotine pouches?
Nicotine pouches are filled with white powder nicotine that is long-lasting. Nicotine powder includes food-grade fiber, water, salt, flavors, etc.
Do nicotine pouches expire?
Yes, nicotine pouches have a shelf life and expiry date that is mentioned on the backside of the packet or box of nicotine pouches.
Do nicotine pouches harm you?
Nicotine pouches indirectly harm a person like addiction, etc.
How do nicotine pouches make you feel?
A person who takes a nicotine pouch feels changing in mood and behavior.
Are nicotine pouches legal?
Yes, they are legal but before using it is good to consult with a doctor.
Why would someone use a nicotine pouch?
It is the best alternative way to leave smoking.
Are ZYN pouches safe to swallow?
No, nicotine pouches are harmful to swallow.
