8 hours later, 12 days later, 3 months later… This is what really happens in the body when you stop smoking
The month of November marks the return of “No Tobacco Month”, a campaign that encourages smokers to put out their last cigarette, at least for 30 days. A strategic duration: abstaining for a month multiplies by five the chances of never starting again, according to Tobacco Info Service.
But beyond the collective challenge, quitting smoking is a precious gift for the body, from the very first hours. Each moment that passes without smoking triggers a series of beneficial changes, from regulating the heart rate to complete regeneration of the lungs. Find out how your body repairs itself after the last puff.
20 minutes later: calm returns
Just 20 minutes after your last cigarette, your heart rate slows and blood pressure drops. The heart, until then put to the test by nicotine, begins to return to normal functioning.
This first step begins a repair process that is only just beginning.
8 hours later: detoxification begins
Eight hours is enough for the body to begin eliminating nicotine and carbon monoxide. This toxic gas, also present in exhaust pipes, limits blood oxygenation, causing fatigue and poor appearance.
Quitting smoking therefore allows your red blood cells to return to their vital role: transporting oxygen.
24 to 72 hours: breath returns
In the three days following stopping, the lungs begin a major cleaning. The accumulated mucus begins to be evacuated, reducing coughing and improving breathing.
Better yet, your senses of taste and smell are awakened, a sensation often forgotten by regular smokers.
2 to 12 weeks: renewed vitality
After a few weeks without cigarettes, the benefits multiply. Blood circulation improves, promoting better sleep and renewed sexual vigor.
Your breath becomes fuller, and the fatigue linked to smoking gradually diminishes.
3 to 9 months: strengthened defenses
After three months, your immune system strengthens, making your body more resistant to infections and inflammations.
The bronchial cilia, responsible for cleaning the lungs, resume their activity, reducing the risk of respiratory infections.
One year and beyond: a healthier future
After one year, the risk of heart attack is reduced by half. And for those who stick it out over the long term, the benefits become extraordinary.
Five years later, the risks of cardiovascular accident are comparable to those of a non-smoker. Between 10 and 20 years, life expectancy returns to that of someone who has never smoked.