Nicotine is totally addictive but not harmful other than appetite suppression.

Nicotine provides a physical stimulate + a neurological stimulate: it makes you more contemplative.

I use gum if I have to sit in a meeting or be in public for multiple hours.

I vape everyday but I use vape liquid without any flavor additives- just vg/pg + nicotine.

Vaping risks are as follows: Dirty coils Expired juice Artificially flavored juice

Vaping also provides a rush of effects that are often difficult for users to handle: Higher/inconsistent doses Irritability Inflammatory to sinuses

Chewing nicotine gum means more nicotine ends up in the stomach- which makes the appetite suppression worse.

Like any drug, it is important to understand all the factors as a user.

This link was posted by blitz_skull 39 minutes ago on HN. It received 10 points and 0 comments.

huh. i'm a smoker, so all the health risks for me are tobacco related, but this is the first time i've seen anything on the benefits of nicotine.

i also like @k00b's take that vices are emotionally grounding. i try to cultivate at least 3 or 4 to be safe

TL;DR Benefits Stimulant Effects: Nicotine is known for its stimulating properties. Research has shown improvements in mental performance, attention, and reaction time. Nootropic Effects: Studies indicate that nicotine might enhance cognitive functions like memory, attention, and learning in certain individuals. Mood Regulation: Some evidence suggests nicotine may have mood-stabilizing effects, potentially beneficial in conditions like depression. Neuroprotective Effects: There's some suggestion that nicotine could protect against neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, though this is still speculative. Lack of Demerits Addiction Potential: While nicotine is addictive, its level of addictiveness, especially when separated from tobacco, might be overestimated. It seems less likely to lead to severe addiction compared to substances in tobacco smoke. Health Risks: When isolated from tobacco, the health risks of nicotine appear minimal, especially compared to the risks associated with tobacco smoking. Cost: Nicotine, especially in forms like gum or patches, is relatively affordable and not a significant financial burden for most users. Conclusions Comparative Safety: Nicotine on its own, particularly in forms like gums or patches, is less harmful than tobacco smoking. The primary risks of smoking are attributed to tobacco smoke, not nicotine. Gateway Hypothesis: There's little evidence to suggest that the use of nicotine leads to tobacco use, especially in forms like gum and patches. Personal Use: For non-smokers or those not predisposed to tobacco addiction, the use of nicotine in controlled forms (like gum or patches) might offer cognitive and stimulant benefits with a low risk of severe health issues or addiction.

Excellent read. I’ve been thinking about nicotine as an irregular caffeine alternative because of the shorter half-life. I can’t drink even decaf after 11am or I’m up all night.

Toxic- hard pass