Nicotine’s Effects on the Brain & Body & How to Quit Smoking or Vaping | Episode 90
Main Takeaways
Epinephrine/adrenaline, acetylcholine, and dopamine work together to facilitate the ability to get focused, direct focus, and stay focused over time.
Epinephrine/adrenaline is released in the brain and body and increase energy and alertness (but not focus).
Acetylcholine released in the brain highlights specific neurons that should be active at certain timepoints and directs attention and focuses to a specific spot.
Dopamine is necessary for ongoing focus.
Alpha-GPC can be used to supplement acetylcholine levels, leading to improved focus when taken prior to work bouts.
Nicotine is found in the tobacco plant and low doses in nightshades, and is used as a pesticide because it renders insects infertile.
Nicotine binds to nicotinic receptors in the brain, exerting its effects through the alpha-4-beta-2 receptor, which increases attention, focus, and concentration.
Nicotine has four major effects on the brain and neural circuits: mesolimbic reward pathway, availability of acetylcholine, increase in epinephrine and norepinephrine, and appetite suppression.
Vaping delivery method is similar to smoking crack cocaine, delivering nicotine rapidly and causing addiction and permanent damage to the dopamine system.
Smoking, vaping, dipping, and snuffing negatively impact every organ and cell of the body, increasing rates of heart attack, stroke, and cognitive decline.
