Nicotine is a common component of almost every snus product you can encounter on the market. Some types are stronger, while others are milder. The choice depends on your preferences and experiences. However, it’s also essential to consider how this substance can influence the body and overall lifestyle. Improper dosing can lead to unnecessary negative effects. What impact does nicotine have on the body, and what should you keep in mind when using it?

What is snus?

Snus is currently a very popular smokeless tobacco product. It offers users several advantages, including the ability to use it almost everywhere. You can place it under your lip in the cinema, car, bus, or at work. Another significant advantage is the wide range of flavours, sizes, and formats available, ensuring that you find something that suits you the most.

While loose snus, popular in the past, used to be the favourite, many now mostly preferer pouches. These pouches can have a brown surface(original portion) or a white surface (white portion). The latter option is especially advantageous because it doesn’t stain your teeth.

Currently, various sizes are available, including:

  • normal
  • large
  • slim
  • super slim
  • mini

Poches in normal or large size are ideal for home use as they are larger and visible under the lip. On the other hand, slim and mini versions are also suitable for work or travel. They completely disappear under the lip, so no one will notice them.  

Composition of Snus

The composition of snus varies and depends mainly on the brand and the chosen product. In pouches, most commonly, tobacco is combined with flavours and sweeteners. Some manufacturers even add additional ingredients such as vitamins and minerals.  

Is Snus Safe?

The safety of snus is a topic of interest not only to many users but also to experts. Therefore, in recent years, more and more studies have been concluded to determine the impact of this product on our bodies and health.

In general, snus is considered safer than cigarettes because it is not carcinogenic. According to research, it has no contribution to the development of lung cancer or cardiovascular diseases.  

Furthermore, it is essential to note that pouches contain lower levels of harmful substances compared to tobacco products intended to smoke. Minimal toxin levels are attributed to modern production and storage methods.  

The fact that snus has a less negative impact on health is also supported by so called “The Swedish Experience”. According to this experience, Sweden has a significantly lower number of smokers and, consequently, fewer patients with smoking-related diseases. This is believed to be because most Swedes prefer snus.  

A similar situation occurred in the United States, where increased snus consumption led to a decrease in cigarette use, resulting in nearly a third reduction in cancer-related deaths since 1991.

What Is Nicotine?

The key component of snus is a chemical substance called nicotine. It occurs naturally in the leaves of Nicotiana tabacum or Nicotiana rustica. It is characteristic for its addictive properties.

The functioning of nicotine in the body is relatively easy to understand. After beign released from a pouch or a cigarette, it enters the bloodstream, which delivers it to the brain within a few seconds. Here, it binds to acetylcholine receptors, the stimulation of which releases “feel-good” molecules, inducing feelings of joy and relaxation.  

The rush of pleasure is addictive. Over time, the brain will demand it on its own. If you deny it, withdrawal symptoms like irritability or restlessness may occur.  

However, it’s essential to understand that nicotine itself is not carcinogenic. There are no studies confirming that it is a cause of cancer. For many, the significant concern lies in its addictive nature, especially since it leads to dependence on cigarettes, which are indeed carcinogenic.

If you consider yourself a smoker addicted to the pleasant sensation of nicotine, snus is the ideal choice for you. It can effectively satisfy the cravings of every smoker without the risk of various health complications, such as cancer.  

Nicotine and Its Effects on the Body

Nicotine can influence the human body in various ways, both positively and negatively. Amongs its main effects are the creation of a temporary sense of well-beign and an increase in heart rate. Additionally, it elevates dopamine levels and induces the release of endorphins, which reduce stress and improve mood.

Frequent nicotine use leads to changes in brain function related to self-control, stress, and learning. In practice, this results in a decline in cognitive abilities and an increased risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Withdrawal symptoms are also a common part of nicotine use, negatively affecting attention and memory. In some cases, they can even worsen the quality of sleep.

The Impact of Nicotine on Various Body Parts

Nicotine affects our entire body, and in each part, it can cause different complications.

Impact on the Heart

Regular nicotine use has a negative impact, primarily on the cardiovascular system. Within this system, it causes:

  • increased blood pressure
  • acceleration of the heart rate
  • constriction of arteries

High doses of nicotine also contribute to the hardening of arterial walls, which can lead to a heart attack.

Impact on the Lungs

Nicotine as a standalone substance doesn’t have a significant impact on the lungs. In some rare cases, it can promote the formation of oxygen radicals and reduce lung capacity. However, it is usually associated with the fact that it promotes addiction to cigarettes, whose smoke contains large number of chemicals. These chemicals lead to the development of lung canser, chronic bronchitis, or emphysema

Impact on the Brain

The brain is the organ that nicotine affects first. Initially, it only leads to a sense of dependency. Later on, mood disorders and a permanent reduction in impulse control can develop. Moreover, with regular use of high doses of nicotine, there can also be a change in the way synapses are formed. This can lead to damage to the part of the brain used for learning and maintaining attention.  

Other Side Effects

Additional side effects of nicotine include:

  • dizziness and light-headedness
  • headaches
  • shortness of breath
  • diarrhoea
  • nausea
  • dry mouth
  • hand tremors
  • joint pain
  • digestive disorders

Nicotine-Free Pouches – A Great Alternative

Nicotine is a substance that has various effects on the body. If you want to avoid these effects but still desire a great pouch experience, there is one solution. Nicotine-free pouches. Brands like Kickup offer such products with a fascinating composition. They contain vitamins, minerals, and energy-boosting substances, not to mention excellent flavours. This way, you can definitely find something that suits your preferences.