Drinking Alcohol and Smoking: A Dangerous Combo
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The tapeworm diet. Foot detox pads. Breatharianism. In a world where trendy (and sometimes dangerous!) health fads come and go, alcohol and cigarettes have been consistently considered the bad news. We’ve all heard the warnings, seen the graphic images on cigarette packs, and maybe even had a friend or two caution us about mixing the two. But why is this combination so notorious? What are the effects of smoking and drinking at the same time? Alcohol is a depressant for our central nervous system, and nicotine, which is found in cigarettes, acts as a stimulant. When consumed together, the combination of these opposing effects doesn't neutralize the risks — instead, it exacerbates them.
To be clear, our goal here isn't to rain on your parade — it’s about fostering awareness and offering some science-backed guidance to navigate this tricky territory. Cigarettes and alcohol might sound like a perfect combo, but they cause more harm than we might realize.
Alcohol and cigarettes are the OG “bad boys” of the lifestyle world. When consumed individually, drinking and smoking pose significant health risks. When we mix them, though, it's like pouring gasoline on an open fire — the risk multiplies. But why?
Alcohol is a central nervous system depressant that slows down brain activity and causes relaxation, while nicotine, the primary addictive substance in tobacco, is a stimulant that speeds up the heart and offers a short-term energy boost (which is sometimes followed by a cigarette hangover). This might seem like a match made in heaven — a case of opposites attract — but sadly, it’s more a recipe for disaster. The combination amplifies the harmful effects of each substance and can lead to a spiraling pattern of dependency, reinforcing the use of one when consuming the other. (You might even have a friend who tells you, “I only smoke when I drink” — it’s pretty common!)
Health-wise, these two substances form a dangerous alliance. Regular consumption can lead to a host of issues like oral and throat cancer, heart disease, liver damage, and many other conditions. Their synergistic effects cause twice the damage and wreak havoc in the body.
A person who smokes and drinks is more likely to suffer from several diseases than someone who only drinks or only smokes:
The interplay of alcohol and nicotine when consumed at the same time also increases addiction potential. Alcohol tends to lower inhibitions and impair judgment, making us more likely to light up a cigarette. Similarly, nicotine's stimulating effects may prompt us to drink more to regain the initial relaxed feeling. This push-pull dynamic creates a vicious cycle that can be tough to break.
Now that we’ve unveiled the harsh reality, let’s turn the tables! Here are a few science-backed, effective ways to distance yourself from this hazardous duo:
Change takes time, and the road to recovery is a marathon, not a sprint. It's about small, consistent steps forward. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small, and remember that every step you take brings you closer to your goal. Your journey to health and wellness is unique to you. Own it, be proud of it, and continue striving for a healthier future!
Although it isn’t a treatment for alcohol use disorder (AUD), the Reframe app can help you cut back on drinking gradually, with the science-backed knowledge to empower you 100% of the way. Our proven program has helped millions of people around the world drink less and live more. And we want to help you get there, too!
The Reframe app equips you with the knowledge and skills you need to not only survive drinking less, but to thrive while you navigate the journey. Our daily research-backed readings teach you the neuroscience of alcohol, and our in-app Toolkit provides the resources and activities you need to navigate each challenge.
You’ll meet millions of fellow Reframers in our 24/7 Forum chat and daily Zoom check-in meetings. Receive encouragement from people worldwide who know exactly what you’re going through! You’ll also have the opportunity to connect with our licensed Reframe coaches for more personalized guidance.
Plus, we’re always introducing new features to optimize your in-app experience. We recently launched our in-app chatbot, Melody, powered by the world’s most powerful AI technology. Melody is here to help as you adjust to a life with less (or no) alcohol.
And that’s not all! Every month, we launch fun challenges, like Dry/Damp January, Mental Health May, and Outdoorsy June. You won’t want to miss out on the chance to participate alongside fellow Reframers (or solo if that’s more your thing!).
The Reframe app is free for 7 days, so you don’t have anything to lose by trying it. Are you ready to feel empowered and discover life beyond alcohol? Then download our app through the App Store or Google Play today!
Reframe supports you in reducing alcohol consumption and enhancing your well-being.