Smoking traditional cigarettes is well known to cause numerous health issues. From heart attacks to lung damage to cancer, smoking has been linked to several serious conditions.
Smoking is also a risk factor for developing type 2 diabetes, with studies finding that smokers are up to 40% more likely to develop the condition than non-smokers. If you’re already diabetic, smoking can worsen outcomes for you.
But what about vaping? Is vaping safe for diabetics?
Since you’re reading this, chances are you’re either seeking to quit smoking or have already embarked on your smokefree journey.
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Nicotine vaping products (NVPs) are smoking cessation tools recommended to smokers who are struggling to quit using existing pharmacotherapies.
Let’s look at what the research says in relation to vaping and diabetes.
Vaping and Blood Sugar: Potential Effects
E-cigarettes have only been around for 20 years; therefore, their long-term effects on health are still being studied.
As it currently stands, there’s no definitive, research-based answer to the question of whether vaping can raise blood sugar.
However, the amount of nicotine in a vape can certainly impact the inhaler’s glucose levels. Nicotine, which is found in high amounts in cigarettes, and to a lesser and varying degree in e-cigarettes, is known to activate the body’s fight or flight response. This can lead to elevated blood pressure and high blood sugar levels.
It’s therefore important for vapers to buy high-quality nicotine vaping products prescribed by doctors who understand their condition and to ensure that vaping doesn’t raise their blood sugar. E-cigarettes made to high standards as set by the TGA with approved ingredients can be your ally on the road to recovery.
Conversely, there’s no telling what damage illegal e-cigarettes may cause to the body since the ingredients are not clearly labelled or even properly disclosed. Inhaling harmful substances can potentially be life-threatening.
How Much Sugar is in Vape Juice?
Vape juice, also known as e-juice or e-liquid, typically contains nicotine, propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine, and flavourings.
In illegal products and overseas imports, you may find artificial flavourants that contain sweetening agents, and in some cases, these products may even contain standalone sweeteners. These can have a direct impact on your blood glucose levels.
Seek Medical Advice Before Vaping
Smoking is a notoriously hard habit to quit. While a vape is an effective smoking cessation aid for people who have been unsuccessful with other approaches, we highly recommend doing so only under medical supervision, whether you’re a diabetic or not.
Furthermore, research has found that the risk for type 2 diabetes is higher in quitters for a certain period after they have successfully stopped smoking. Working with a health professional will aid in your diabetes and overall health management as you embark on a nicotine-free life.
Quit the Habit With the Right Support
We know you’re reading this post because you’re eager to know if vaping is safe for diabetics.
Smokefree Clinic gives you access to many medically reviewed and trustworthy resources that can inform and aid you in your path to wellness, so have a look around!
If you’re ready to get started, Smokefree can connect you to bulk-billing Australian healthcare professionals who excel in helping patients quit smoking for good, including using responsible vaping products where appropriate.
Click here to book your bulk-billed telehealth consultation with an Australian healthcare professional and quit smoking today.
Citations (in the order of appearance):
What are the effects of smoking and tobacco?