Can you be a healthy smoker? - Smoking Cessation Message Board

Red60 · 02-04-2008, 09:30 PM

Could it be that smoking gets a worse wrap than it really deserves? Is smoking really the health hazard that its made out to be or does it just exploit other unhealthy habits that we have. As an example is a cig better or worse for your health than a french fry. Does smoking cause damage because our diet is just to low in antioxidents. In Japan smoking is more common that in the US but cancer and CHD is still much lower. I've got a dirrection I'm heading with this that ties into smoking cessation. But for now I'de like to hear how you feel about this.

texas1107 · 02-05-2008, 09:06 AM

You may be healthy as far as weight and muscle, but, physically, no, I don't think you can be. Do you see a runner, chainsmoking? I don't hink so. They wouldn't be able to run. I cannot do half the things I used to do. Age has a lot to do with it, but, I am 39 years old and I have ZERO energy!! I take meds for heart palpitations. When I am one month quit, I will see if there is a difference and if I am able to wean off the meds.

tigerlilyx61 · 02-05-2008, 09:14 AM

Considering the fact that nicotine alone is a potent vasoconstrictor I would say cigarette smoking is very unhealthy. That's not taking into consideration all the other things that are in tobacco.

Red60 · 02-05-2008, 05:00 PM

Maybe I should reword the question. Could you be a smoker but healthier than the typical non smoker by having an optimal diet, proper exercise and ideal body weight? Would we be better off making these changes instead of giving up smoking?

tigerlilyx61 · 02-06-2008, 04:10 AM

I don't think so. Ask any doctor and they will tell you smoking is the number one preventable risk factor for most diseases.