Smoking is a well-established health hazard that can lead to disastrous consequences. People who smoke cigarettes are at higher risk of immune system complications, tuberculosis, and all sorts of other diseases.

Due to the harm this inflicts on the human blood circulation and heart, individuals who smoke are more likely to suffer strokes, heart diseases, and damage to their blood vessels. In spite of this, tens of millions of adults smoke each year and cigarettes have accounted for billions in annual sales.

Earlier this week, a new Addiction journal study revealed yet another grave effect of puffing smoke.

Another reason to avoid smoking

New findings show that people who smoke cigarettes over the course of their lives are likely to carry more abdominal fat. Much of this fat could also be visceral, meaning it encompasses organs within the human abdomen.

Having some degree of visceral fat is actually healthy; though it can become problematic when visceral fat levels exceed 10%. Beyond this point, people become more susceptible to type 2 diabetes, heart disease, inflammation, and other chronic illnesses.

Some medical officials believe that smokers may be strengthening their excess body fat as well, hence making weight loss more challenging. The adverse health consequences of obesity and smoking tend to intersect, only further depicting why people are better off avoiding both vices.

Unfortunately, individuals who smoke may also partake in unhealthy lifestyle choices, such as extreme drinking, lacking a nutritious diet, or not getting enough sleep each night.

How to kick a smoking habit for good

If smoking has become a regular part of your life, there are many avenues to break free. Utilizing stop-smoking aids, making a list of your key triggers, and spending more time with non-smokers can go a long way. These aren't overnight solutions, but with time and consistency, your progress will become readily apparent.

Joining smoking support groups, counseling, or therapy may prove to be helpful for individuals who want to stop smoking. The beginning is often the hardest; though in the long run, anyone who manages to free themselves from a smoking habit will reap immense benefits.