Smoking refers to the regular use of tobacco, most commonly by inhaling cigarette smoke. Nicotine, the main alkaloid in tobacco, is responsible for addiction—it acts on nicotinic receptors in the brain and activates the dopaminergic reward circuit. Tobacco contains more than 7,000 chemicals, the majority of which are known to be toxic and carcinogenic (benzene, formaldehyde, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons). Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death in France, responsible for more than 75,000 deaths per year. Its consequences affect many systems:
Secondhand smoke also exposes nonsmokers to the same risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer—children are particularly vulnerable, with an increased risk of respiratory infections, asthma, and sudden infant death syndrome.
Quitting smoking triggers nicotine withdrawal, which involves temporary but sometimes distressing symptoms: anxiety, irritability, sleep disturbances, increased appetite, difficulty concentrating, and frequent cravings. Their intensity varies depending on the level of prior dependence and generally subsides after 2 to 4 weeks. Quitting often requires several attempts—this is a normal part of the smoking cessation process, not a personal failure:
A consultation with a smoking cessation specialist or primary care physician allows the cessation strategy to be tailored to each individual’s profile—this is the most effective approach according to public health data.
Quitting smoking places significant strain on the body, particularly in terms of nutrition and the nervous system. Vitamin C levels are particularly depleted in smokers—tobacco increases oxidative stress and the consumption of this antioxidant vitamin; supplementation (500 to 1,000 mg/day) supports the body’s overall recovery after quitting. Magnesium bisglycinate (300 mg/day) helps alleviate the irritability and nervousness associated with withdrawal by reducing nervous hyperexcitability. Proper hydration, regular physical activity (which helps channel stress and limits weight gain associated with withdrawal), and a high-fiber diet round out the nutritional approach.
Regarding alternatives marketed as less harmful (e-cigarettes, heated tobacco products), it is important to emphasize that they still pose significant health risks and are not recommended by any health authority as a safe option—only complete abstinence truly eliminates the risks associated with tobacco. For detailed guidance on quitting smoking, see the page dedicated to smoking cessation.
