For many smokers, vaping has become a convenient, environmentally friendly, and better alternative to smoking cigarettes. With the rising cost of tobacco, the social stigma of cigarettes and the health risks associated with long-term smoking, vaping has caught on quickly as a substitute to smoking as well as a new cessation for many who wish to kick the habit.
However, not everyone finds this transition to be particularly easy, especially because there’ll be changes to your health, your taste buds, and even your psychological relationship with cigarettes. Patience is key when switching to vaping, as the long-term improvements you’ll experience are worth it.
As with cigarettes, e-cigarettes offer a vast number of options. For example, disposable e-cigs and your basic starter kits are a good place to start, but the vaporizers, MODs, and advanced kits also allow for more customization according to your specific needs. Your transition from cigarettes will be made easier by finding the right kind of vaping system; for example, if you are a heavy smoker, you may benefit from a longer battery life or larger e-liquid tank. You won’t automatically find yourself smoking less with an e-cigarette. As a matter of fact, depending on the hit your vape allows for, or the amount of nicotine in the liquid, you may need to vape a bit more to meet the balance you’re used to with cigarettes. Luckily, it should only take 2-3 weeks at max to grow accustomed to vaping.
As most of us already know, vaping isn’t exactly the same as smoking a traditional cigarette, and many still find themselves craving the feel and taste of traditional cigarettes. This is both a physical and psychological reaction, as the nature of addiction allows a feeling of comfort that comes with the specific movements associated with smoking as well as the nicotine it provides. However, as your body grows used to vaping, you’re likely to find the taste and sensation of cigarettes to be uncomfortable. Your taste buds will become significantly more sensitive, strengthening your sense of taste regarding cigarettes as well as certain foods.
Another thing you’ll experience during the switch is coughing. This might be alarming, but because of the "cleaner" hit vaping offers, this is actually your lungs clearing out the mucus and tar that was built up by smoking cigarettes. In about a week or so, you’ll begin to notice less coughing, more ease of breathing, and less wheezing. Your body will begin to feel better without the preservatives and add-ons found in traditional cigarettes.
The transition to vaping might seem overwhelming, but the long term benefits are worth it for the adjustment. You may find yourself frustrated by not wanting to immediately give up cigarettes, or you might be concerned about the changes you are experiencing to your breathing. No matter the reason you wanted to start vaping, keep in mind that it’s a transition, and it’s okay to be patient with yourself during the transitional process.
