Which Is Worse For You, Cigarettes Or Cigars?

By Darren Williger

If you have ever smoked and even if you have not, we are all bombarded with warnings, commercials, and other media advertising telling us how bad cigarette and cigar smoking is for us and others. They can both cause cancers and other lung problems. Also, we have all heard too that secondhand smoke is bad for others as well. Is either one of these worse than the other though? Are cigars somehow better for you because you do not inhale them, unlike cigars? As it turns out neither is good for you and both can cause the same problems.

As with anything, how much you smoke either cigarettes or cigars will determine the increased health risk. There was research done at the national Cancer Institute that has shown that the health risks that cigarettes and cigars created is linked to how often you smoke either of these or both. If you smoke on a daily basis then you are going to run a higher risk of developing cancer or other diseases than the person who only smokes occasionally. However, there is evidence that cigars actually much more carcinogens then cigarettes. Also, cigar smoke has been shown to be much more toxic than any secondhand cigarette smoke. Much of the reason for this is that cigars are larger than cigarettes and then produce more smoke.

There have also been many other debates concentrated on the issues of inhaling nicotine while smoking cigarettes or not inhaling cigars. Very dedicated cigar smokers will argue that cigars are not as dangerous as cigarettes because they are not inhaling the smoke and so then they are not getting as much of the toxins. However, The National Cancer Institute's research actually shows that both cigars and cigarettes have carcinogens and anyone smoking is then exposed to them.
This is whether they inhale or not. Even if you are not inhaling you are still exposing your mouth, gums, tongue, and teeth to the same toxins. The carcinogens are part of the cigarettes and cigars and so when you hold them, these toxins are escaping. Then when saliva touches either one of these there is transfer and the toxins are still swallowed. Once swallowed your throat, larynx, and esophagus are now exposed to the carcinogens, toxins, and irritants. Whether holding, lighting, or smoking a cigar or cigarette both appear to give off approximately the same amount.

Furthermore, all research to date shows the health risks that are associated with cigars and cigarettes could be reduced by less smoking and less inhalation when you do smoke. Since, most cigarette smokers typically inhale deeply while smoking and smoke on a more regular basis they usually show up with a higher risk of developing health problems. One study by The National Cancer Institute showed that smoking one pack a day of cigarettes was equivalent to smoking five cigars a day.

Either way really we all know smoking anything can be bad for you. It is not good for your health regardless of how often or when you smoke. Deciding to quite all together would probably be a better idea.

Darren Williger is an over-caffeinated, low carbohydrate eating, winemaking sales maker who writes for CigarMaven.com, SmokersWebsite.com, and Williger.com.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Darren_Williger

Smoking Facts - The Horrible Truth

By Tim Bock

Smoking is a deadly habit that affects millions of people. Even though it's so deadly, people still continue to do it. Below are a few facts on the subject. Let's hope they will encourage people to try to quite.

• People who smoke die on average 16 years younger than non-smokers. These deaths are usually diseases related to cancer and stroke.

• On average smokers spend over $3,000 a year on cigarettes. This means person who smokes 20 years will end up spending well over $60,000.

• It only takes a relatively short time for your body to start to recover. If you quit it will only take 3 months for you to see improvement in the functions of all your internal organs. The risk of heart attack drops and lungs will begin to get healthier

• Your children will suffer from more ear, nose and chest infections from the second hand smoke. Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease also becomes an increased risk.

• Finding and keeping jobs will become increasingly challenging. Since its common knowledge that smokers are much more likely to miss work due to illness employers have become wary of hiring smokers.

• Romantic relationships also become harder to come by. Who would want to go out with someone who has bad breath and stained teeth? Talk about running the mood!

While some of these facts can seem scary, just remember that it's never too late to quite. The sooner you stop smoking, the sooner you can start living a happier, healthier life. By quitting your loved ones will be proud of you, both because you overcame a huge obstacle and because you care enough about yourself and your loved ones to take action. That first step is the hardest, but don't be afraid to take action today. Your loved ones will thank you for it.

For more information on the harmful effects of smoking, please visit: Stop Smoking Today a website that specializes in fighting addiction to smoking including the side effects of smoking.

Cigar Accessories You Cannot Be Without

By Mike Selvon

Ever see a cigar smoker chew off the end of an expensive stogie? That's because he didn't have its cutter! Cutters are just one of many cigar accessories that can enhance the experience of smoking a flavorful stogie. In this article, we'll uncover a few simple yet unexpected items that these brand of smokers should never be without.

Cigar cutters are used to remove or penetrate its cap before smoking it. There are three basic types of cuts: the straight cut, the wedge or "V" cut and the hole punch. The type of cut to make is based on personal preference and the size and/or shape of it.

The straight cut is the most common. The double blade guillotine is preferred by many aficionados because it usually makes a cleaner cut. The wedge or "V" cutter resembles the guillotine cutter, but the shape of the blade slices a wedge into its cap instead of cutting it completely off.

The hole punch is used to put a hole in its cap instead of just cutting it off. If a cutter or hole punch isn't available, a hole cut can be made in it using a pen or pencil.

If you are one to purchase expensive varieties, like a Cuban cigar, then here is an accessory you'll definitely need. Unlike a cigar box, a humidor prevents your cigars from drying out or becoming infested by insects.

For private use, small wooden or acrylic glass humidor boxes will store a few dozen. Humidors of all sizes use hygrometers to keep track of the humidity levels. The ideal humidity in one of these units is around 65-75%.

Besides the cigar accessories that one can purchase, especially a humidor, the rich aroma is part of the experience of smoking one. Still, some people find the scent overpowering. To combat the smell on your clothes, choose garments made from artificial fibres and store soiled clothing in a plastic bag with baking soda.

If you smoke indoors, use a spray deodorizer expressly formulated for tobacco smoke or invest in an air purifier. Taking vitamins can help freshen your breath and flush nicotine from your system. Chlorophyll and parsley extract will make your mouth fresher while vitamin A, vitamin C, garlic extract, spirulina, young barley or wheat grass will all help to cleanse your body of nicotine.

A quality tobacco is enjoyable on its own but its accessories can make the experience more personal. Its cases, lighters, cutters and even ashtrays can all be engraved.

In addition to those products, these brand of smokers can respect their nonsmoking comrades by keeping deodorizers handy at all times. Cigar accessories also make perfect presents for the cigar aficionado in your life, so go online for more great gift ideas.

Mike Selvon has some great cigars articles for the smoker, where you can find out more about cigar accessories. We appreciate your feedback at our tobacco blog.