Smoking and sport

Do you want to want to run up the stairs without gasping for breath or compete with the best on the sports field?

Giving up smoking can help!

• The carbon monoxide in cigarettes binds to red blood cells and robs your body of vital oxygen, which it needs during exercise and sports. 
• On average smokers suffer shortness of breath (gasp!) almost three times more often than non-smokers.
• Smokers run slower and can’t run as far, affecting athletic performance.
• Smoking slows lung growth, decreases lung function and reduces the oxygen available for muscles used in sports.

Did you know that within 24 hours of giving up smoking, your carbon monoxide levels return to normal and energy levels begin to recover! Why not phone the National Smokers’ Quitline on callsave 1859 201 203 to get in contact with your local HSE give up smoking service and get your carbon monoxide levels checked?

Just in case you didn’t know.

• Nicotine is addictive in the same way as heroin and cocaine.
• Young people who do not start using tobacco by age 18 will most likely never start.
• Young people who use tobacco may be more likely to use alcohol and other drugs such as cocaine and marijuana.
• Oral tobacco, cigars and low-tar cigarettes are NOT safe alternatives.
• Smoking is the single most preventable cause of death in Ireland, causing heart and lung diseases, cancers and strokes.