Adverse Effects of Smoking on Diabetics

We all know that smoking is harmful for us and more so if you are a diabetic. Smoking increases the risk of type- 2 diabetes. You might be surprised to know that smokers have 30-40 percent more chances than non-smokers to develop diabetes. Some other complications that can arise because of smoking other than diabetes are:

• Cardiovascular disease

• Lung diseases

• Secondhand smoke can lead to autoimmune diseases

• Cancers like oral and lung cancer

• Obesity

• Osteoporosis

• May damage the eyes and optic nerve, which can lead to blindness

• Weakened immunity

• Oral health problem

• Peripheral neuropathy

Complications that arise from smoking

Smoking causes damage to cells and tissues, which leads to inflammation. It increases oxidative stress, and also leads to poor circulation and interferes with blood flow. These conditions are linked to an increased risk of diabetes and its complications. Smoking also increases abdominal fat which is also an important risk factor for diabetes.

How to reduce the impact of smoking on diabetics?

The only way to reduce the impact of smoking on diabetes is by quitting smoking. If it is not possible to quit smoking, the next best thing to do is, reduce the number of cigarettes that you smoke. Some of the other things that can lower the impact of smoking are:

• Exercising daily helps to reduce obesity, increases metabolism and lowers the risk of cancer

• Healthy eating like including fiber in daily diet can lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases and helps in better management of diabetes

• Take the medicines as prescribed by your doctor

• Avoid alcohol consumption and excess caffeine intake

• Practice meditation and yoga

• Try taking alternative therapies like acupuncture and acupressure

You can also try using nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), to quit smoking. But it is best to check with your doctor before starting it, as it may interfere with your medications.