Chandigarh, May 3: For many smokers, a heavy day of smoking can leave behind more than just the smell of tobacco—it may trigger fatigue, dry mouth, irritability, and even nausea.
While quitting remains the only proven way to protect long-term health, health professionals say certain drinks may offer short-term relief from the side effects of excessive smoking.
Medical experts note that smoking dehydrates the body and impacts circulation, lung capacity, and vitamin absorption.
As a result, the first recommendation is often hydration. Water, they say, is the body’s most efficient detoxifier. Smokers are advised to increase their water intake to help flush out toxins like nicotine, which can linger in the bloodstream for up to three days after a cigarette.
Herbal teas, particularly those containing ginger, licorice root, or peppermint, are also being recommended by wellness practitioners.
These natural infusions are known to soothe the respiratory tract and support digestion, both of which are often compromised by regular tobacco use.
Green tea, which contains antioxidants called catechins, may also offer mild protective effects for cells damaged by smoking-related free radicals.
In recent years, a number of nutritionists have suggested that fruit and vegetable juices may play a supporting role in detoxification. Fresh orange juice, in particular, is rich in vitamin C—an essential antioxidant that smoking rapidly depletes.
A glass of citrus juice not only restores this vitamin but may also support immune function and improve circulation.
Beetroot and carrot juices are sometimes mentioned for their potential to support liver function and oxygen delivery in the blood, both of which can be impaired by prolonged smoking.
Milk is another drink that has made its way into anti-smoking discussions. Though not a remedy, studies have shown that drinking milk before smoking may reduce the taste satisfaction of cigarettes.
Some researchers believe this could discourage smoking frequency over time, though conclusive results are still lacking.
Meanwhile, experts caution against caffeinated and sugary beverages, which many smokers turn to as stimulants.
Excessive caffeine intake, especially when paired with smoking, may lead to increased heart rate, anxiety, and dehydration.
Energy drinks and sodas, high in artificial sugars and stimulants, may amplify the oxidative stress already caused by smoking.
It’s important to remember, health experts say, that no drink can reverse the long-term damage of tobacco use.
However, certain beverages may help alleviate immediate discomforts and aid the body in coping with the physiological stress smoking induces.
“Staying hydrated, replenishing antioxidants, and choosing lung-supportive drinks can be part of a self-care routine,” said a public health expert.
“But they are not substitutes for cessation.”
For smokers looking to cut down, specialists continue to recommend smoking cessation programs, nicotine replacement therapies, and behavioral support as the most effective strategies.
Until then, for those who find themselves smoking more than usual, a glass of water or freshly squeezed juice might at least be a step in the right direction.
