Beyond Cravings: The Impact of Vaping on Your Digestive System and the Benefits of Quitting 

Breathe in, breathe out. Again. Breathe in and breathe out. Good. Once more. Breathe in, breathe out. It seems like a simple action, but many people find it difficult. Conditions such as gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), acid reflux, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can cause many gastrointestinal problems, which in turn can negatively affect breathing. 

Want to know another culprit? Vaping.

Vaping has been touted for years as an alternative to traditional cigarette use. The vapor cartridges come in many fun flavors, and the vape itself comes in various sizes to accommodate your vaping preference. It is notably less smelly than cigarettes and is less likely to start fires thanks to the lack of flame. Vaping, however, could be argued as just as dangerous as smoking cigarettes.

Originally promoted as a smoking cessation tool, vaping has become a modern trend, especially among pre-teens, teenagers, and young adults. What many people don’t know about vaping is that most of the cartridges, especially those marketed as “extra strength,” can deliver more nicotine to your system than traditional cigarettes. This extra dose increases the addiction level and creates a greater challenge for users to quit vaping.

While we remain aware of the various negative health effects of vaping, such as the increased chance of developing lung and heart disease, did you know that vaping can also negatively affect your gut microbiome?

Vaping & Your Microbiome: Untangling the Web of Digestive Disruption: 

Your gut microbiome is a system of bacteria that lives in your intestinal tract (stomach, small intestine, large intestine, colon, etc.). It helps keep your body healthy through a process called homeostasis. Unhealthy bacteria can infiltrate your body when this barrier is disrupted and cause negative health issues. 

Numerous studies are currently being conducted on the exact effects of vaping on the human body, but so far, we have been able to learn a lot through scientific research on mice. One particular study in 2021 uncovered three main findings regarding vaping and the gut microbiome:

1. E-cigarettes (including vapes) broadly impact gut health
2. E-liquid, not nicotine (as previously theorized) is the main culprit behind intestinal disruption
3. E-cigarettes can trigger gut inflammation, which can lead to the development of numerous gastrointestinal flare-ups

In several studies, vaping was found to cause oxidative stress (difficulty for the body to absorb oxygen), mucosal injury, and even DNA damage. Additionally, the subject of one study, whose GERD symptoms were previously under control, noticed that vaping re-ignited his GERD side effects and led to his development of esophagitis (inflammation of the esophagus). 

Beyond Nicotine: Unmasking the Hidden Digestive Disruptors in E-Liquids:

So, what is in vapes and vape cartridges that cause such damage to the gut microbiome? Well, it depends on your e-liquid of choice. Most standard cartridges contain a mixture of water, nicotine, food-grade coloring, propylene glycol (PG), or vegetable glycerin (VG). Another common additive in e-vapor is cannabis, either in the form of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) or CBD (cannabidol). The various levels of PG, VG, THC, and CBD create a custom blend that can be adapted for individual preference.

It is also important to consider the practice of hacking or modifying e-liquids outside of purchase from a local retailer. Several other drugs, including ketamine, LSD, and GHB, have been found in vaping products in addition to the chemicals above. Smoking these substances can lead to further drug dependence and hospitalization. 

Either choice of e-liquid will cause damage to your intestinal system. Common side effects of vaping include irritation of the stomach lining and increased production of stomach acid, two key factors of GERD. Additionally, vaping has been linked to an increase in abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, bloating, gas, and changes in bowel movements (typical symptoms of IBS). 

Kick the Vape, Heal Your Gut: Practical Tips for a Smooth Transition: 

The good news is, you can quit! Numerous programs, strategies, and resources are available to assist you in your journey. We recommend you consult your primary care provider to determine the best path. Here’s a sneak peek at some of the methods and  coping strategies that have been found to help with quitting vaping:

1. Make a “quit plan” - this is your personal guide to quitting vaping for good. An excellent template can be found at smokefree.gov. 
2. Mentally prepare yourself for the road ahead. It will not be easy, but remember it is not impossible! You may want to look into mental health resources to assist you in this aspect of the quitting journey.
3. Find your people! Include your family, friends, coworkers, and support groups. These individuals can encourage you on your journey.
4. Be aware of nicotine withdrawal symptoms and how to alleviate them. The best news? According to the CDC, nicotine withdrawal can’t harm you unless you give in to the cravings and continue vaping. There are also over-the-counter medications, candies, and inhalers that can help with withdrawal symptoms. 
5. Don’t be too hard on yourself! Quitting vaping is a process; it doesn’t just happen overnight. Be willing to try new, healthy habits, such as nutritious snacking and beneficial exercise, to replace vaping. 

Breathe Easy, Gut Rejoices: Embracing the Digestive Benefits of a Vape-Free Life: 

There are several benefits related to quitting vaping. First, your digestive system will thank you! A restored gut microbiome can begin functioning normally again, protecting you from various infections. Your constant stomach pains will disappear as stomach acid production becomes normal again. You may even notice better overall digestive health thanks to improved blood circulation. Quitting vaping has also been associated with a lower chance of developing lung and heart disease.

The most important thing to remember is you are not alone! Many people on similar journeys may be able to help and encourage you. If you have plans to quit and don’t know where to start, need some guidance/encouragement to quit, or have completed the quitting vaping journey, share your thoughts and experiences below in our comment section. We’d love to hear, learn, and grow from you. 

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3. _{Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2023, September 12). 7 common withdrawal symptoms. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/campaign/tips/quit-smoking/7-common-withdrawal-symptoms/index.html} 
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