5. Smoking: More Than Just Lung Health at Stake
When it comes to smoking and health, the focus is often on the lungs. But your digestive system also pays a steep price for every puff. Nicotine, a component of cigarette smoke, can actually cause your lower esophageal sphincter to relax, facilitating the backflow of stomach acids into the esophagus.
What’s more, the smoke itself contains a cocktail of harmful chemicals that can inflame and damage the lining of the esophagus. This makes it easier for stomach acid to irritate the already-sensitive area, escalating GERD symptoms dramatically.
Don’t forget that smoking also interferes with saliva production. Why is this a problem? Saliva contains bicarbonate, a substance that neutralizes stomach acid. Without sufficient saliva, your body loses an essential line of defense against stomach acid.
Here’s another twist: smoking can affect the way your body processes medications, including antacids. This means even if you’re popping over-the-counter remedies like candy, smoking could render them less effective. The result? Persistent symptoms and worsening discomfort.
Ditching cigarettes is no small feat, but when you consider the cumulative toll on your digestive health, it’s worth the struggle. We often forget that every puff wreaks havoc beyond our lungs. The lingering impact on your digestive health offers yet another compelling reason to quit. (5)
