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Can electronic cigarettes help you quit smoking ?
Probably.
But the companies who sell these devices are not in a position to tell you that. Because the FDA has not approved electronic cigarettes as quit-smoking aids, they are not being sold as smoking cessation devices. Instead, ecigarettes are selling as a healthier "smoking alternative" since they do not burn (no combustion), and don't have the 1000+ harmful chemicals and carcinogens because they don't contain tobacco. Smokers also buy ecigarettes because they are not subject to the smoking bans (no combustion - no smoke), so they can legally smoke in public places.
E-cigarettes are an alternative nicotine delivery system. Common sense would dictate that they could be effectively used as part of an overall smoking cessation program, similar to the way nicotine gum, patches and inhalers are used.
And here is an interesting fact about electronic cigarette nicotine cartridges: They come in several different nicotine levels - high, medium, low, and zero nicotine. Conceivably a person could slowly wean themselves from their nicotine addiction by progressively lowering their intake levels. It's important to note that even a cartridge with a "high" nicotine level still delivers considerably less nicotine per inhale than a traditional cigarette.
So how many smokers successfully quit using the electronic cigarette?
It's too soon to say for sure and no organized studies have been performed to date. However, if one were to go to the numerous "vaping" forums they would see many testimonials of people who have kicked the habit for good using these devices. Some of these success stories are from people who have smoked over a pack a day for decades.
Until in-depth clinical studies are done, we are going to have to rely on anecdotal testimonials and our own reasonable judgement. Do your research and educate yourself on the facts. Then you will be well equipped to make and intelligent adult decision if this is something that can help you quit smoking.
Here's the bottom line: No device, even one as promising as the e-cigarette, is going to be a "silver bullet" that can make a smoker quit overnight. Successfully quiting forever starts with a strong conviction to quit. If a person truly wants to quit then the electronic cigarette may prove to be a very helpful tool in realizing that goal.
But let's face it... many smokers DON"T want to quit! They just enjoy smoking too much. For this group, electronic smoking can be a much healthier alternative... hopefully one that will keep them alive a lot longer.
Filed under Blog by on Dec 7th, 2009. 
Are you ready to buy an electronic cigarette?
Great... this is definitely a healthier and cleaner alternative to conventional cigarettes or cigars. Congratulations on making a smart decision!
But there are A LOT of different types to choose from...
Here is a list of some of the more popular types of e-cigarettes and the pros and cons of each:
1. Super Cigarette. This is just a little bigger than a normal cigarette but looks very similar.
Strength: It is the most similar to a tobacco cigarette in size and feel. The battery life is pretty good and it produces a nice vapor.
Weakness: The cartridge size is a bit smaller than some other types, so you may have to replace or refill it more often.
2. The Mini Cigarette is a bit longer than the Super and basically the same diameter. However, the main difference is the mouthpiece which is tapered.
Strength: Decent vapor and battery life.
Weakness: A lot of people are saying it has an odd shape/feel and seems more like a small cigar rather than a conventional cigarette.
3. The Super Mini is basically what it sounds like... the smallest type available.
Strength: Compact and easy to carry and use.
Weakness: Because of the size, the cartridge, batteries and atomizer are also small. This causes a weaker vapor and shorter battery life.
4. Disposable e-Cigarettes. Everything is self contained. No need to change/refill cartridges, charge the battery, etc.
Strength: Some people find this model very convenient.
Weakness: Can get expensive and may seem a bit wasteful.
The Super Cigarette type is my personal favorite. It is the most similar in size and feel to a regular cigarette and produces the most robust vapor making it seem like an authentic smoking experience.
But don't rush out and buy an electronic cigarette till you've done your research.
Not all e-cigarettes are created equal... as a matter of fact many of the early designs are prone to mechanical failure. The most common complaint is that the atomizers get clogged. When this happens the vapor quality and volume is greatly compromised. Another problem is short battery life. The many electronic cigarette brands made in China have little to no quality control, so beware.
The best way to avoid these problems is to educate yourself on the best models/brands. Unfortunately the majority of manufacturers are producing cheaply made inferior products. The good news is that there are a handful of reputable companies with top of the line electronic cigarettes that will give you a realistic smoking experience without all the headaches.
If you would like more information on where you can buy one of the best electronic cigarettes available on the market, go to Green Smoke.
Filed under Blog by on Dec 4th, 2009.
