4. Smoking: The Silent Saboteur of Gut Health
We’re well aware of the harms of smoking on the lungs and heart. But its insidious effects on the gastrointestinal tract, particularly in promoting duodenal ulcers, often go under the radar.
Cigarette smoke contains a cocktail of chemicals that wreak havoc on our body. One of its lesser-known effects is stimulating the stomach to produce more acid. This uptick in acid production means the duodenum is constantly under threat, setting the stage for ulcers.
Smoking doesn’t just increase the risk of ulcers; it also plays spoilsport in healing. Studies have shown that smokers take longer to heal from ulcers than non-smokers. Furthermore, the recurrence rate is higher among those who light up, making it a chronic concern.
Smoking’s effects on the gut aren’t limited to ulcers. It compromises blood flow to the stomach lining, making it vulnerable.
While the harms of smoking are well-documented, it’s heartening to note that quitting can reverse some of these effects. Giving up cigarettes reduces the risk of ulcer development, aids faster healing, and offers a plethora of other health benefits. It’s never too late to quit, and the gut, among other organs, will thank you for it. (4)
