I live on a cul-de-sac where hauling a lawn chair from your garage out to your driveway on a sunny afternoon is practically part of the husbands’ job descriptions in the summertime.
Over the years, I’ve seen the drinks in these men’s hands go from Miller Lite to hard seltzer (fewer calories), and nicotine hits from surreptitious vape pulls when the kids weren’t looking give way to stuffing a pouch back by their molars.
Mostly, it’s Zyn.
The sleek pouches. The subtle buzz. The “discreet” way to get your nicotine fix, as the company (and others like it) would tell you. But I’m here to tell you: women notice, and we are not into it.
While the nicotine delivery system may be perceived as having fewer health risks since it’s smokeless and tobacco-free, it’s still a bad habit.
And in a word? Gross.
Of course, Zyn has captured the hearts — and mouths — of more than just the suburban dads in my neighborhood.
Finance guys in big cities and farm guys in small ones alike have contributed to nicotine pouches becoming the next big tobacco replacement trend.
So let’s talk about it.
The Health Hazards of Zyn
Addiction is Real!
Zyn delivers a potent dose of nicotine, a highly addictive substance. It hooks you fast, making it incredibly difficult to quit.
The Hidden Dangers
While marketed as “smokeless,” Zyn isn’t risk-free. Studies have found potential links to:
- Oral Health Issues: Gum recession, tooth staining, and even increased risk of oral cancer.
- Cardiovascular Problems: Nicotine raises blood pressure and heart rate, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- Brain Development: In young adults, nicotine can impair brain function and increase the risk of mental health issues.
Okay, that’s bad, but you probably knew all that already, right?
How about this, then?
Women hate it.
If you need a reason to quit that’s not health-related…
Let’s be honest. That not-so-discreet lip bulge? It isn’t exactly a turn-on for women.
Here’s the truth:
- It’s Gross: Kissing someone with gum in their mouth is not sexy. What makes you think a nicotine pouch is any better?
- It’s a Sign of Weakness: If you want to get all manosphere about it, I think Zyn suggests an inability to control one’s impulses, not some manly habit. I mean, it’s a potential addiction problem!
- It’s Giving Follower, Not Leader: Oh, all your friends walk around with a can of Zyn in their pockets? So you started doing it? So cool.
- It Sets a Bad Example. If you have kids, they will find your Zyn, and they will try it. So if you don’t want them to start, consider kicking the habit yourself.
Bottom line? True masculinity comes from confidence, strength, and taking care of yourself – not from succumbing to a harmful habit.
How to quit Zyn (without wanting to kill yourself)
Okay, let’s go. First up?
1. Acknowledge it’s a Problem
Admit you have an issue and that it needs to be addressed. If you’re only one foot out the door on this problem, that’s okay.
Feel the trepidation about giving up a habit that’s come to feel familiar and do it anyway.
2. Set a Quit Date
Choose a Realistic Date: Don’t just pick a random date.
Consider your schedule, upcoming events, and any potential stressors. A date that allows for some flexibility is ideal.
3. Start tapering
Gradual Reduction: Begin by consciously reducing your daily Zyn consumption. For example, if you typically use 3-4 pouches per day, start with 2-3.
Consistent Decrease: Over the next week or two, gradually decrease the number of pouches further. You could aim for a daily reduction of 1 pouch per day or every other day.
Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your withdrawal symptoms. If you’re experiencing severe cravings or intense withdrawal, slow down the tapering process.
Nicotine Replacement Therapy (NRT): Consider using NRT products like nicotine gum or lozenges alongside tapering. These can help reduce cravings and withdrawal symptoms.
Mindful Consumption: During the tapering phase, become more mindful of your Zyn use. Pay attention to the triggers that lead you to use a pouch (stress, boredom, social situations).
4. Find Support
Talk to your doctor, a therapist, or join a support group. Or take on this challenge with other like-minded friends who want to give up their nicotine pouch addiction!
5. Identify Triggers and Develop Coping Mechanisms
Pinpoint situations that make you crave Zyn (stress, boredom, alcohol), and make plans in advance for what you’ll do instead of reaching for a nicotine pouch.
Take a new gym class. Start a journaling practice. Anything to break up your Zyn-assisted routine.
7. Be Patient with yourself
Withdrawal is tough. Expect cravings, irritability, and difficulty sleeping.
8. Don’t Give Up
Relapses happen. Learn from them and get back on track.
The Bottom Line?
Zyn might seem like a harmless habit, but it’s a slippery slope.
Quitting won’t be easy, but it’s absolutely worth it. You’ll improve your health, enhance your attractiveness, and ultimately, live a better life.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance on quitting nicotine. Nicotine products are addictive and may be harmful to your health. Not intended for use by minors.
