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Health / Habits
Nicotine
Nicotine is something I've had an on-and-off relationship with. It's a stimulant that provides
a quick hit of focus and calm, but the dependency it creates is real. Here are my honest thoughts.
What It Is
- Chemical Alkaloid found naturally in tobacco plants
- Effect Stimulates dopamine release, creating alertness and mild euphoria
- Half-life About 2 hours, which is why cravings come frequently
- Addiction Highly addictive due to rapid tolerance and withdrawal
My Experience
I've gone through phases with nicotine, mostly through vaping or pouches. The appeal is
undeniable: it sharpens focus temporarily and takes the edge off stress. But the downsides
accumulate quickly.
- The trap What starts as occasional becomes habitual fast
- Anxiety cycle Relieves anxiety short-term, creates more long-term
- Blood sugar impact Can affect insulin sensitivity, relevant with T1D
- Sleep disruption Even small amounts late in the day affect sleep quality
Breaking Free
Quitting or reducing nicotine is one of those things that sounds simple but requires real
effort. A few things that help:
- Delay tactics Wait 10 minutes when craving hits; it often passes
- Replace the ritual Find something else for that hand-to-mouth habit
- Track triggers Stress, boredom, and social situations are common ones
- Cold turkey vs. taper Both work; depends on your personality
- Self-compassion Slipping up doesn't mean failure
Bottom Line
Nicotine is a vice I'm working to minimize. It doesn't align with the version of myself
I want to be. The short-term benefits aren't worth the long-term costs to health,
energy, and mental clarity. Progress over perfection.