E-Cigarette

Can Electronic Cigarettes Help You To Quit Smoking?

2014-03-10T01:20:00.000-07:00

Can electronic cigarettes help you quit smoking ? Probably. But the companies who sell these devices are not in a position to tell you that. Because the FDA has not approved electronic cigarettes, they are not being sold as smoking cessation devices, but rather as a healthier “smoking alternative” for people who want smoke in public places.
E-cigarettes are an alternative nicotine delivery system. Common sense would dictate that they could be effectively used as part of an overall smoking cessation program, similar to the way nicotine gum, patches and inhalers are.
And here is an interesting fact about electronic cigarette nicotine cartridges: They come in several different nicotine levels – high, medium, low, and zero nicotine. Conceivably a person could slowly wean themselves from their nicotine addiction by progressively lowering their intake levels. It’s important to note that even a cartridge with a “high” nicotine level still delivers considerably less nicotine per inhale than a traditional cigarette.
So how many smokers successfully quit using the electronic cigarette? It’s too soon to say for sure and no organized studies have been performed to date. However, if one were to go to the numerous “vaping” forums they would see many testimonials of people who have kicked the habit for good using these devices. Some of these success stories are from people who have smoked over a pack a day for decades.
Until in-depth clinical studies are done, we are going to have to rely on anecdotal testimonials and our own reasonable judgement. Do your research and educate yourself on the facts. Then you will be well equipped to make and intelligent adult decision if this is something that can help you quit smoking.
Here’s the bottom line: No device, even one as promising as the e-cigarette, is going to be a “silver bullet” that can make a smoker quit overnight. Successfully quiting forever starts with a strong conviction to quit. If a person truly wants to quit then the electronic cigarette may prove to be a very helpful tool in realizing that goal.
But let’s face it… many smokers DON”T want to quit! They just enjoy smoking too much. For this group, electronic smoking can be a much healthier alternative… hopefully one that will keep them alive a lot longer.

Tips on Using Your New Electronic Cigarette

2014-03-09T01:43:00.000-08:00

Your new electronic cigarette is not a complicated device but with anything new there is always going to be a bit of a learning curve. Here are some tips on the best way to maximize your electronic smoking experience so you can save both time and money.
Tips for new electronic smokers.

1. Get extra batteries and atomizers. These are the two things that are most likely to need replacing. A quick word of caution: It’s a good idea to make sure you like your particular electronic cigarette model first before buying all the extras. Once you know for sure you’re satisfied with it, get the extra hardware… you’ll definitely get good use out of them!

2. Get a car charger and a USB passthrough. These will allow you to “vape” while driving or at your computer without the need to drain your batteries. Again, make sure you’re satisfied with your model before buying the extras.

3. Start off with a lower nicotine dose. Electronic cigarette cartridges typically come in several different doses: High, medium, low and none. When you first get your e-cigarette you’re going to want to be experimenting with it a lot, trying new flavors, etc. If you’re not careful you’ll end up absorbing more nicotine than you’re used to… and possibly increasing your addiction to it. Start off low and increase your dose after the novelty wears off if you feel like it.

4. Take long, slow puffs. A long, slow, steady puff will give you the most vapor volume. Short, hard puffs will tend to flood the atomizer causing reduced vapor production (you may even get liquid in your mouth).

5. Switch atomizers frequently. Atomizers tend to get clogged easily and when this happens the vapor volume is greatly reduced. Switch out your atomizer daily for best performance and be sure to clean them frequently. (This tip only applies to three-part ecigs where the atomizer is a separate unit. Some newer two-piece models have a built in atomizer in each individual cartridge).

Follow these tips and you will have a head start on being able to fully enjoy your new electronic cigarette as soon as possible. If you’re unsure about something be sure to check out some of the ecigarette forums online. These can be an excellent resource for answering nearly any question you can think of.

Electronic Cigarettes Are The Best Way To Stop Smoking

2014-02-04T00:37:00.000-08:00

Just about every cigarette smoker has tried at least several times to quit smoking. The majority fail to quit, and most of the rest are able to quit for a while before returning to tobacco.

The most popular methods used by smokers trying to quit are the nicotine patch, hypnosis, nicotine chewing gum and cold turkey . The failure rates for all of these methods are immense, and nobody is sure exactly why most ex-smokers ultimately return to cigarettes.

It’s clear that there needs to be a better way to effectively wean smokers off of tobacco. While patches and nicotine gum can deliver the drug to addicted smokers effectively, neither can replicate the sensation of smoking. Because smoking is both a physical and behavioral addiction, smokers must struggle with their desire for a puff, even if he or she is receiving a nicotine dosage from a patch.

This means that electronic cigarettes could be more effective at helping those struggling to totally free themselves from tobacco cigarettes. Electronic cigarettes look and feel like a regular cigarette, but they deliver a harmless vapor “smoke” from a cartridge that is the exact same temperature of real lit tobacco. There is a large selection of flavored cartridges for users to choose from, the most popular being tobacco flavored. The LED tip of an ecig lights up red (or another color if you wish), and looks just like a real cigarette, and the smoker can enjoy the familiar sensation of a cigarette in their hand. Even better, an electric cigarette emits no secondhand smoke that is harmful to others, enabling ecig smokers to enjoy their ecigs almost anyplace.

Because ecigs are nicotine delivery systems that are user-controlled – the smoker of an electric cigarette can actually reduce the amount of nicotine he or she receives, and quit in stages. This may be a crucial element for many people who would like to quit smoking, but have failed. The smoking sensation an electronic cigarette gives them, delivering the exact amount of nicotine they require, could be the answer to so many people trying to quit the habit.

E-Cig Health – Benefits of Electronic Cigarettes

2014-02-03T22:32:00.000-08:00

Thanks to the invention of electronic cigarettes, smoking does not have to be very harmful anymore. The health benefits of electronic cigarettes are many and e-cigs are gaining on global popularity as a healthy alternative to quit smoking. This is because e-cigs are pose fewer health risks to smokers.

While smoking tobacco exposes smokers to the risk of contracting cancer or emphysema, the electronic cigarette does not contain toxins that are as harmful as the ones in tobaccos. This is because the battery-powered device does not burn tobacco as in regular cigarettes. In fact, it has been reported that people who want to quit smoking rely on electronic cigarettes to help them get their nicotine fix without breathing or emitting toxins from burnt tobacco. Electronic cigarettes only stimulate smoke by emitting into the air a vapor from a liquid tube inside the device. This liquid is sometimes called â€œe-liquidâ€ or â€œe-juice,â€ as the electronic cigarettes is also popularly known as ecigs, or e-cigarettes. The liquid content of the electronic cigarette device is sometimes flavored to imitate the taste of popular tobacco products. Some contain fruity flavor for a sweet smoking fix.

Electronic Cigarettes To Replace Tobacco And Help Smokers Quit The Habit

Due to its novelty, the electronic cigarette is receiving mixed reviews from the media, the public, and health advocates. However, the supporters of ecigs argue that there is no sufficient evidence to claim that a battery-operated cigarette-look alike is harmful to anyone.

For regular smokers, the idea that they can â€œsmokeâ€ in public places without being frowned upon for the odor and harm that tobacco emits suggests positive development. Perhaps it is only a matter of time before the electronic device becomes more popular than the real thing. One could look at it that way, or one could say that it is only a matter of time before smokers quit smoking by using electronic cigarettes.

Common Mistake That Ruins Electronic Cigarette Batteries

2011-07-25T19:22:00.000-07:00

Most of the time batteries get ruined because of liquid getting in it. If you drip liquid directly onto the atomizer you are more likely to get liquid into the battery. You can tell if liquid has leaked into the battery because the light will stay on longer than normal after you take a drag. It may even stay on until the 4 second cut off and the light will blink and shut itself off. It may also start to turn on and off when you tap it, these are all signs that you got liquid into the battery.
To avoid getting liquid in the battery you should never dip more than 2 drops of liquid onto the atomizer. You may want to only use one drip. The only time you should use more than 2 drips is if you just cleaned the atomizer, but you still need to be careful to avoid flooding the atomizer. You also should try to keep your e-cigarette horizontal, if it stays in a vertical position for too long liquid can leak down into the battery.
There is not much you can do if liquid does get into the battery. The best thing to do is let the battery dry out, since the liquid is pretty thick it will take a few days and maybe even a week. After you let it dry out it may go back to working like normal. It is important to do everything you can to avoid getting liquid into the battery.

Some Areas are Banning Electronic Cigarettes

2011-06-05T21:39:00.000-07:00

Electronic cigarettes are sparking a legal and social debate over whether it's ok to light up in places where regular smokes are banned from lighting up.
Despite big differences between cigarettes and their electronic cousins, several states, workplaces and localities across the USA have explicitly included electronic cigarettes in smoking bans.

Some have clarified that the battery-powered devices don't fall under those bans.
Others are rethinking smoking laws to include them in the ban.

Electronic cigarettes are devices made from metal and plastic which heats a liquid nicotine solution in a cartridge, creating vapor that the user inhales. They don't burn or give off smoke like a normal cigarette. The practice is called vaping by users, rather than smoking.

Some people are saying electronic cigarettes should be allowed in places where normal cigarettes are banned. Others are worried of their safety and what risks secondhand electronic cigarette vapor holds.

Facts - The Truth Behind Electronic Cigarettes

2011-06-01T19:58:00.000-07:00

Smoking tobacco exposes all smokers to the risk of contracting cancer or emphysema, the electronic cigarette does not contain toxins that are as harmful to you as the ones in tobacco. This is because the battery powered device does not burn tobacco as in a regular cigarette. Fact is it has been reported that people who want to quit smoking rely on electronic cigarettes to help them get their nicotine fix without breathing or emitting toxins from burnt tobacco.

Electronic cigarettes only stimulate smoke by emitting into the air a vapor from a liquid tube inside the device. This liquid is sometimes called e-liquid or e-juice, as the electronic cigarettes is also known as e-cigs or e-cigarettes. The liquid content of the electronic cigarette device can also be flavored to imitate the taste of popular tobacco products. Some e-cig liquid comes in a fruity flavor.

Thanks to the invention of electronic cigarettes, smoking does not have to be very harmful anymore. There are so many reasons why electronic cigarettes are gaining popularity, and one of the most common reasons is that it poses fewer risks to you as a smoker.

Due to the novelty of the electronic cigarette it is receiving mixed reviews from the public, media and health advocates. However, the supporters of electronic cigarette argue that there is no sufficient evidence to claim that a battery operated cigarette can be harmful to anyone.

For regular smokers, the idea that they can electronic smoke in public places without being frowned upon for the odor and harm that tobacco emits suggests positive development. Perhaps it is only a matter of time before the electronic cigarette becomes more popular than a real cigarette. That could be one way of looking at it. Or you could say that, it is only a matter of time before smokers quit smoking using electronic cigarettes.

How Electronic Cigarettes Work To Create Smoke?

2011-05-27T11:35:00.000-07:00

Electric cigarettes, also called electronic cigarette or ecigs, are an amazing invention that is revolutionizing smoking. E-cigarettes are not only cheaper and safer than traditional tobacco cigarettes, they utilize modern technology to deliver a true smoking experience for tobacco users. Nicotine gets delivered using a harmless water vapor that mimics tobacco smoke. This vapor is tobacco flavored (or another flavor if you choose), and has the same temperature as ordinary smoke. Electric cigarette vapor dissipates into the air within a few seconds, and does not leave a smelly residue. No smoke, no smell.

You may be wondering how this technology works from a technical standpoint. The heart of the electric cigarette is the atomizer, a part that all ecigs have. Electric cigarettes come in various brands and styles, but all models utilize the same basic technology.

All e-cigarettes have these basic parts: A cartridge containing nicotine and flavoring, the main casing, a mouthpiece, a smart chip controller, an atomization chamber plus a rechargeable lithium battery. Drawing on an electric cigarette turns the unit on, and begins the process of creating the smokelike vapor and lighting up of the LED indicator.

The main component of an electric cigarette is the atomization chamber ― the part that actually generates the smokelike vapor. Vapor results from the heating up, or atomizing the liquid in the cartridge. The tip of the unit has a light-up LED that glows when you use it, to make it look just like a tobacco cigarette flame. You can put your finger on the glowing tip and not get burned because there is no actual flame involved. It’s cool to the touch and cool to be seen using this interesting accessory. When you stop using it, the unit shuts itself off to save power.
When inhaled, the electronic cigarette user receives the sensation and nicotine dosage that he or she got from smoking tobacco ― without the tar, carbon monoxide, second hand smoke or dirty ash residue. This, plus considerable cost savings are what makes electronic cigarettes so popular, and why so many people are making the switch to e-cigs.

Why Is The E-Cigarette So Popular?

2011-05-26T15:53:00.000-07:00

The leading rationale the e-cigarette has seen such skyrocketing deals lately is that various smokers have discovered that using the device can help give them the same feel as smoking without all the negatives attached. These days, smokers are stigmatized pretty much all over the place they go. It is illegal to smoke in most public places today, because of the finding of how unsafe secondhand smoke is to those close to us. But as someone who has smoked can tell you, stopping our dependence is not an easy thing to do.

The introduction of the e-cigarette has given a cleaner, safer substitute to those that smoke all over. They are allowed pretty much all over the place because they don’t actually expel smoke or hurtful substances. Okay, the nicotine within them is still addictive but only to the actual consumer. The e-cigarette has the same feel and experience as smoking an genuine tobacco cigarette so it still satisfies the same reasons as tobacco goods.

Some of those that smoke are in reality using the e-cigarette to help them give up the addiction. Since the device replaces traditional cigarettes, they get an instant reduction in their health risks. A large amount of the harmful effects are triggered by the burning of the tobacco which makes tar, carbon monoxide and cancer causing agents. Because the nicotine fluid comes in different strengths, it is quite simple for the smoker to wean down one step at time until they’ve left the nicotine addiction.

Of course, several people buy the e-cigarette because they actually enjoy the act of smoking but don’t want the elevated health dangers or the added by-products of smoking such as smelling such as an ashtray. For whatever rationale, there is no uncertainty that the e-cigarette has really taken off and product sales do not look to be slowing down as time goes on.

What is Vaping ?

2011-05-25T17:02:00.000-07:00

Vaping quite simply is the inhalation of vapor by usually through an electronic cigarette. When you smoke you are smoking because you inhale something that is on fire. Vaping is NOT smoking!

Vaping an electronic cigarette does not burn anything, you inhale vapor created through an electrical heating process powered by a battery. The vapor itself is similar to the smoke that comes from smoke machines, or from some types of model trains that have "steam" coming from them. Electronic cigarettes or e-Cigarettes take the vapor and mix it with nicotine to be inhaled directly to the lungs just like a cigarette. This process is called vaping.

The devices themselves can go by many names including: Electronic Cigarettes, Personal Vaporizers (PV's), ECIGS, eCigarettes, minifogger.

You may have seen or heard more and more ads recently about e-Cigarettes.

FAQ

Does Vaping electronic cigarettes smell?

Yes, there is an odor in the vapor. It is nowhere near cigarette smoke, nor does it linger like tobacco smoke. You can be vaping in a cardboard box all day and if someone smells your clothes they won't detect it.

Does it feel like your taking a drag?

Yes, you feel a "throat hit". It isn't as strong as cigarette smoke, but it feels like you are smoking something. This is not just sucking on a hollow tube.

Is it expensive?

It depends where you shop! Some sites offer a starter kit for only $75 (shop around!). Then you need to buy new cartridges. If you shop around you can find prefilled cartridges for $5 for 5.

How long does a cartridge last and how much do they cost?

It depends how much your vaping. Manufactures vary in how long they say the cartriges will last. In my experience it's about 10 cigarettes worth. So it works out being the equivalent of about $2 a pack. Still there are other costs like new batteries and atomizers, but in my experience they do not fail very often. So vaping saves money!

Electronic Cigarettes and the FDA

2011-05-25T02:28:00.000-07:00

Electronic cigarettes, the FDA, anti-freeze and teenagers… how are these four connected?

Apparently the FDA found small traces of diethylene glycol, an ingredient used in antifreeze, in one sample of electronic cigarette solution they analyzed. They are also concerned that teenagers will get addicted to electronic smoking. How serious are these issues? Are e-cigarettes harmful devices that should be banned? Lets get the facts straight and put all this information into perspective.

Diethylene glycol may be a toxic ingredient but exactly how toxic is it?

1. It is has one-tenth the toxicity of aspirin.
2. It has one-fortieth the toxicity of nicotine (the primary ingredient in electronic cigarette vapor).

Diethylene glycol is also found in everyday consumable products like:
- Toothpaste
- Mouthwash
- Cough syrup
- Wine
- Dog food
- And many others…

You have to wonder why the FDA is focusing so much on the minute traces of diethylene glycol found in one sample when clearly this is a very common ingredient many of us are ingesting regularly.

That’s not to say that diethylene glycol is totally harmless and we shouldn’t have any concerns about it. But when the FDA starts focusing on words like ‘diethylene glycol’ and ‘anti-freeze’ it sure does sound scary. However, a little bit of education on the facts puts it back in perspective doesn’t it? By the way, water is another ingredient found in anti-freeze!

The FDA tends to give the impression that they have regulatory control over nicotine. That is not always the case. They regulate smoking cessation products and claims. That’s why electronic cigarettes are marketed as a smoking alternative and not as a means to quit smoking.

Another “concern” expressed by the FDA is that electronic cigarettes target underage kids. Here is an FDA quote from one of their reports:

“These products are marketed and sold to young people and are readily available online and in shopping malls. They are also available in different flavors, such as chocolate and mint, which may appeal to young people”.

There is absolutely zero evidence that e-cigarettes target teenagers. Just the opposite… the marketing is focused on adults who already smoke and are searching for a healthier alternative they can use in public places. And here is some breaking news: Adults like to shop in malls and enjoy a variety of flavor choices too! Besides, the initial cost of entry for a top of the line electronic cigarette is not practical for most teenagers.

I encourage you to do your own due diligence and research the electronic cigarette to see if this is something that will benefit you. Look at all sides of the story and try to get unbiased information. Right now the FDA appears to be biased against electronic smoking for some reason. Do they have a hidden agenda? Who knows… but I think I detect trace elements of BS in the FDA reports!

The Safe Cig Review

2011-05-22T02:10:00.000-07:00

What is The Safe Cig?
The Safe Cig is the most trusted electronic cigarette allowing smokers the chance to enjoy controlled amounts of nicotine vapor without tar or carbon monoxide.
The Safe Cig is available in 6 different nicotine levels:
* 24 mg
* 18 mg
* 14 mg
* 11 mg
* 6 mg
* 0 mg (no nicotine).
The Safe Cig has no lingering odor, no tar, no ash and no offensive smoke. Best of all, operating The Safe Cig is easy! With no on/off switches to remember, you simply drag on our product like a regular cigarette, and it will instantly power on and create a cloud of great tasting vapor to inhale and exhale just like you're used to.

What Makes The Safe Cig Unique?
Admittedly, very little has changed with the technology of electronic cigarettes in the last 4 years... until now.

Refill Cartridges
Refill cartridges for the Safe Cig electric cigarette are available in 6 different nicotine levels, more than most of the competition offers.

This company is the first in the industry to implement a “catcher” in the design of the refill cartridges. A catcher is designed to prevent refills from leaking any errant liquid into the smoker’s mouth before being vaporized. This can undoubtedly be a huge problem for smokers otherwise, as though the vaporized liquid is pleasurable, the concentrated liquid can is not as enjoyable.

Impressive Battery Life
There is one serious battery enclosed in this tiny device! Recently designers have increased the battery life by a full 50% over the previous model, using the same type of battery that powers some of today’s most popular smart phones. Offering 4 to 5 hours of smoking time with each charge, Safe Cig’s batteries outlive the competition easily.

The Black Battery
In addition to the traditional white model, this company also offers a black battery, offering the following features
* Shiny, sleek black finish
* Finish does not peel off like other company’s black e-cigs
* Utilizing painting processes from one of the best automotive makers in the business
* Hand buffed and polished
* Lovely azure blue LED
* Reload skins available to turn any refill cartridge into a high-class item.

With free shipping in the United States, a 30-day money back guarantee, and a lifetime warranty on their quality product, Safe Cig offers some of the best products around when it comes to electronic cigarettes. Why not check out their home page video with the surprising reactions of other smokers?

Are E Cigs a Healthy Alternative?

2011-05-21T22:41:00.000-07:00

The dangers of smoking cigarettes are well known, with public service advertisements bombarding television screens on a daily basis, with images of decrepit individuals and scarred lungs as a result of smoking. There is no arguing with the facts: cigarette smoking is hazardous to the health of you and those around you. As a newcomer on the smoking scene, e cigs, are becoming more popular, health experts are weighing in with their opinion on them.

Harm Reduction
Experts in harm reduction compare cigarette smoking with driving. We all are well aware of the dangers of driving- simply driving a few blocks down the street could result in serious injury or even death. Yet, instead of telling people to quit driving altogether, public officials offer methods of making it safer, encouraging safer automobile design and improving roads. Unfortunately, this has not been the case with traditional smoking.

Harm reduction experts recommend a similar approach to smoking. Rather than telling smokers that they must quit or face the dire consequences, perhaps they should instead offer safer alternatives. Electronic cigarettes are just this alternative. With no possibility of accidentally burning a house down when left lit, this is just one of the many health benefits of this product over traditional smoking products.

Health Benefits
While e cigs most certainly could not be considered a device designed to improve health, they are a significant improvement upon the old standard. With no dangerous second-hand smoke, innocent bystanders are left only with a faint smell of the flavor cartridge or even no noticeable scent at all. This product only contains a limited amount of different ingredients, in stark contrast to traditional cigarettes, which not only contain recognized toxins but also chemicals that have yet to be identified.

In addition, e cigs have the potential to actually help smokers end their addiction to nicotine. Smokers have the ability to gradually reduce the amount of nicotine they consume by simply stepping down to a cartridge containing less nicotine. Eventually, smokers can work their way down to nicotine- free cartridges, which still maintain the same enjoyable flavor without the addictive nicotine added

Research
Unfortunately, there has not been a vast amount of research done yet on e cigs. A recent online survey found that users of electronic cigarettes report a decrease in symptoms associated with smoking, such as cough, limited sense of smell, and inability to exercise for long periods of time. However, this study does not actually indicate whether or not this is just an issue or perception or an actual decrease in health problems

A study at the University of East London reports that electronic cigarettes can be an effective method of smoking cessation, but this ability does not appear to be reliant on the amount of nicotine delivered. Rather, it is supposed that other factors are coming into play, such as the taste, vapor, and ability to simulate smoking without actually doing so that is responsible.

Though no one would venture to state that e-cigs are healthy, they are clearly a much healthier alternative to traditional nicotine cigarettes. With a variety of different options to choose from, there is likely an e cig to fit every smoker’s needs.

Electronic Cigarette Review

2011-05-21T15:28:00.000-07:00

Can the electronic cigarette offer a realistic smoking experience? This is the first thought that came to my mind when I first heard about e-cigarettes and no doubt you’re also wondering “how close to the real thing is it?” I’d like to share my electronic cigarette review with you in the hopes that it will give you a clearer idea of what to expect should you decide to try it out.
Smokers enjoy their cigarettes. If you smoke then you know what I’m talking about. For many smokers it is a love hate relationship. You know it’s bad for you but you enjoy the sensation and the actual ritual of smoking. That’s why nicotine delivery alternatives like gum and the patch don’t cut it… they don’t simulate the actual smoking experience.
This is where the e-cigarette comes in. It claims to replicate a real smoking experience but without the same health risks and other drawbacks of smoking tobacco. And you know what? It does a pretty good job. It may not be exactly the same but the similarities are great enough to satisfy most smokers.
When I first heard about electric smoking I thought it was a joke. I mean come on… a battery powered cigarette? You’ve got to be kidding! It wasn’t until recently (after hearing several positive reviews) that I finally decided to try it for myself.
I have to admit, I was pleasantly surprised….
The sensation of the vapor is incredibly similar to real cigarette smoke. The vapor has a warmth to it and it feels like real smoke when you inhale. You also get that immediate nicotine sensation which is very satisfying.
The taste was a lot like tobacco but not exactly. It was a bit smoother and cleaner tasting and I found myself actually preferring the flavor.
When you blow out the vapor you see a cloud that looks exactly like smoke but without the lingering smell. As a matter of fact the vapor is nearly odorless and the cloud (which is just vaporized water and nicotine) quickly disappears without a trace. The fact that the breath, hands, hair and clothes don’t stink is a huge plus!

I know cigarette smoking is bad, but at least now there is a healthier and more cost efficient alternative. I hope my electronic cigarette review helped you decide if this is something that may benefit you or someone you love.
If you’re a smoker I highly recommend giving the electronic cigarette a try… you may find yourself changing the way you smoke forever.

7 Features to Consider in an Electronic Cigarette

2011-05-19T20:37:00.000-07:00

What is the best electronic cigarette?
The fact is that most e-cigarette models basically work the same way. In a nutshell, a battery powers an atomizer which vaporizes a nicotine/water solution that is inhaled by the user. The main differences are in overall quality/dependability as well as special/extra features that may appeal to you depending on your personality and needs.

7 Features To Consider When Choosing The Best Electronic Cigarette

1. Overall look. Most manufacturers make their ecigarettes to look like a real cigarette. The cartridge is brown to look like a filter, the battery is made to look like main body of a tobacco cigarette and the end will even glow red when you inhale to add to a realistic smoking experience.
For smokers who are looking to express their individuality a bit more, you can choose from a variety of colors or exotic designs. Some companies even offer e-cigars and pipes.

2. Color of the LED. As mentioned above, the traditional look is a red LED on the tip that lights up when you take a drag. However, you can also choose a green or blue LED. What difference does it make?
If your LED is red, you won’t get as much attention from other smokers because it looks so realistic. On the other hand, if the end lights up green or blue, then you will attract much more attention from curious smokers. This could be good or bad depending on your personality. Do you like to remain anonymous or do you enjoy socializing and answering question from strangers.

3. Vapor volume. How much vapor you’re able to get on one puff is a big deal for many smokers. Generally speaking, more volume equals a more satisfactory and realistic smoking experience.

4. Atomizer. The atomizer is what vaporizes the nicotine solution and contributes greatly to overall vapor volume. The most common problem is a clogged atomizer. You may want to consider a two-piece model where the nicotine cartridge and atomizer are one unit. Every time you change your cartridge you also get a fresh atomizer.

5. Battery life. Are you are going to use your ecigarette frequently throughout the day?
If so, you want to make sure your battery has battery life that will last for a whole day. You may also want to consider a battery charger for your car if you’re on the road a lot.

6. Flavors. Do you want the traditional flavor of tobacco or menthol?
Many companies also offer you the choice of experimenting with vanilla, chocolate, coffee or fruit flavors.

7. Nicotine strength. The cartridges generally come in several different nicotine strengths: High, medium, low and zero nicotine. If you’re trying to wean yourself off nicotine you may want to consider gradually cutting down on the strength levels.

Now that you know what to look for, with a little bit of research you should be able to find the best cigarette electronic that suits your personality and needs. Just don’t make the mistake of buying the cheapest e-cigarette you find. It’s worth while to spend a few extra dollars initially to get a device that gives you the most realistic smoking experience without the mechanical problems found in many of the cheaper models.

Electronic Cigarette Benefits

2011-05-18T21:49:00.001-07:00

Electronic smoking is quickly rising in popularity and may change the way people smoke forever. Are you wondering if this is something that would benefit you or a loved one? Let’s examine some of the many benefits of the electronic cigarette as a sensible and healthier alternative to “real” smoking.
5 Benefits of the Electronic Cigarette:
1. Health. The most dangerous aspect of smoking is the actual smoke and the associated tar, carcinogens and other chemicals that are inhaled into the lungs. With an e-cigarette nothing is actually lit, so there is no smoke, tar or carcinogens. The nicotine is vaporized into a mist that looks and feels like smoke, but isn’t smoke. This is clearly a much healthier alternative.
2. Cost. The cost of the nicotine cartridges is where you really save a lot of money. An electronic cigarette nicotine cartridge is about the equivalent of 1 – 1.5 packs of tobacco cigarettes. A package of 5 cartridges will cost you around $15. This comes out to about $2-$3 per pack… this is a huge savings!
3. Convenience. You can smoke an e-cigarette anywhere because there is no smoke being emitted. You may get some funny looks if you suddenly start “smoking” in a restaurant or bar so you may want to get permission from management first. But technically you can do this in any public area because there is no second-hand smoke to be concerned with.
4. Smell. There is no lingering odor so no more worrying about stinky breath, hair, clothes, hands, etc. You won’t be offending anyone with second hand smoke and no one can complain about the smell.
5. Peace of mind. You will have the peace of mind knowing that you’re choosing a healthier alternative. True, you’re still absorbing nicotine but at least you’re avoiding the the incredibly dangerous smoke and 4,000 toxic chemicals associated with tobacco cigarettes.
A lot of people wonder if electronic smoking can help a person quit smoking altogether. There have not been enough clinical studies to prove this one way or another so this is still a debatable subject. However, other nicotine delivery alternatives like gum, patches, etc., are commonly used as a part of many stop-smoking approaches. Common sense would suggest that the electronic cigarette has the potential to do the same.

Are Electronic Cigarettes Safe?

2011-05-18T21:30:00.000-07:00

Electronic cigarettes are being marketed as a safer alternative to smoking tobacco. But just how safe are e-cigarettes? Are there any health risks? Let’s examine electric smoking and compare it to “real” smoking so you can make an intelligent decision if this may be a wise smoking alternative for you.
The most harmful aspect of smoking cigarettes is the 4,000 toxic chemicals that are inhaled when you burn tobacco. It’s the actual smoke that is causing lung cancer and respiratory disease, not the nicotine. With electronic smoking none of these 4,000 toxic chemicals are produced because there is no smoke… nothing is actually burning. No smoke means no tar, carbon monoxide, etc.
But what about the nicotine? E-cigarettes still deliver nicotine. How dangerous is that? More independent studies on the effects of nicotine by itself need to be done. Right now the health risks are still inconclusive. Nevertheless, it’s obvious that a method of delivering nicotine that doesn’t involve real smoke is going to be much safer than burning tobacco.
The FDA recently reported that traces of carcinogens where found in a sample of electronic cigarette nicotine liquid. However, these same carcinogens are also found in nicotine delivery alternatives like the patch and gum (which are both approved by the FDA). Also keep in mind that many every day foods like peanut butter contain trace levels of carcinogens. This is not to say that we should not be concerned about it. Just keep it in perspective. It’s important to remember that the dose of a particular carcinogen is an important factor in it’s toxicity. If carcinogens are present in e-cigarette vapor, it doesn’t not appear to be in high doses. Right now there is no evidence that these carcinogens are are even translated into the actual electronic cigarette vapor that is inhaled.
Are electronic cigarettes totally safe? Until more studies are done it’s probably a good idea to err on the side of caution and assume that they are not 100% safe. But when you compare it to “real” smoking there really is no comparison. One thing we know for sure is that tobacco smoking is incredibly dangerous, expensive and inconvenient. E-cigarettes give smokers an alternative that appears to be much safer and will probably save countless lives. Given a choice between the two? I think it’s a no brainer.

10 Electronic Cigarette Facts

2011-05-18T21:28:00.001-07:00

The electronic cigarette is quickly rising in popularity as more smokers become aware of this healthier smoking alternative. For the first time an alternative nicotine delivery system is available that closely simulates a real smoking experience. Many people believe this will lead to countless smoker’s lives being saved. The e-cigarette is looking very promising and is already revolutionizing the way many people smoke… permanently.
However, because it’s a relatively new device that is just coming into public awareness, there is a lot of misinformation surrounding the electronic cigarette. Is it safe? Can it help you quit smoking? Is there a danger of more kids getting addicted to nicotine? These are all sensible questions that need to be addressed in order for you to make an intelligent decision whether this is something you could benefit from.
The following are a list of 10 FAQs about the electronic cigarette:
1. How close to the real thing is it? Very similar… enough to satisfy the most hardcore smokers. There are many reports of smokers with 1-2 pack a day habits completely switching over to e-cigarettes permanently. The vapor tastes, feels and looks like tobacco smoke. It delivers that instant nicotine satisfaction that smokers crave.
2. Is it safe? Tobacco smoke has over 4,000 toxic chemicals. Electronic smoking has none of these because there is no actual smoke involved. Smoke is the real health hazard. E-cigarettes deliver nicotine by inhaling a vaporized water/nicotine solution without having to worry about tar, carbon monoxide, etc.
A report by the Royal College of Physicians states that nicotine by itself has not been proven to cause any long term ill health effects. Electronic cigarette vapor has about 20 ingredients (including nicotine) all of which are considered safe as long as the proper instructions are followed.
3. Can it help me quit smoking? Electronic cigarettes are NOT marketed as smoking cessation devices. They are meant to be used by smokers who are seeking an alternative that can be used anywhere. That being said, common sense dictates that it definitely has potential to be an integral part of a sensible stop-smoking program (similar to how nicotine gum and patches are used).
4. Is it approved by the FDA? The e-cigarette is a nicotine delivery device and doesn’t fall under the jurisdiction of the FDA right now.
5. Why are certain groups so opposed to it? This is a complicated question. Certain groups may have the public’s best interests in mind and just want more clinical studies to be done. Others have a financial interest in trying to figure out the best way to capitalize on what is probably going to be a billion dollar industry soon.
6. Can it be used anywhere? Technically, yes. There is no burning tobacco so no second hand smoke is produced. Although it is totally acceptable in most public places, there are certain areas like restaurants that may not like the appearance of it. In these cases simply check with the staff first.
7. Does it target kids? Absolutely not! There is a lot of misinformation regarding this topic. Some anti-groups are claiming that because a variety of flavors like fruit, vanilla, chocolate, etc. are available this is going to appeal to kids. That’s like saying because nicotine gum comes in a variety of flavors like mint or fruit it’s catering to a younger crowd. Adults enjoy a variety of flavor choices too! The bottom line is the initial cost for an electronic cigarette starter kit (usually around $100 or so) is not practical for most kids. The market is adult smokers looking for a healthier alternative smoking choice.
8. What is the best e-cigarette? This is where you need to use a bit of discrimination. There has been a lot of cheap designs coming out of China that are wrought with mechanical problems. Luckily there are a handful of high-quality manufacturers out there. A little bit of research will help you decide. Just remember that sometimes it’s worth spending a few more dollars one time to ensure you get a high quality device that is capable of giving you an enjoyable and problem-free smoking experience.
9. How much does it cost? A quality starter kit (including rechargeable battery, charger and 5 nicotine cartridges) will run you around $100 – $150. A package of 5 cartridges will run you around $10 – $15. I cartridge is about the equivalent of 1 – 1.5 packs of cigarettes. Do the math. That’s the equivalent of paying around $2 – $3 per pack of cigarettes.
10. Where can I buy one? Because it’s still fairly new, not many stores are carrying these yet. The best deals can be found online.

What is an Electronic Cigarette?

2011-05-18T21:23:00.000-07:00

When I first heard about the electronic cigarette my first reaction was that this was a novelty item that wasn’t to be taken seriously. But upon closer inspection I realized that this is an ingenious invention that has the potential to revolutionize the way people smoke forever.
What exactly is an electronic cigarette? Here is a description of what it is, how it works and how it can potentially benefit you or a loved one.
The e-cigarette is a battery powered device that looks, feels, tastes, and reacts like a cigarette… but it’s not a real cigarette! It even delivers nicotine but without the harmful smoke, tar and chemicals associated with real tobacco smoke. The nicotine is inhaled via a clean odorless vapor.
An electronic cigarette is typically made up of three parts:
1. Atomizer
2. Battery
3. Nicotine Cartridge
NOTE: Some of the newer models combine the atomizer and nicotine cartridges as one disposable unit. The advantage of this is that you always have a fresh atomizer instead of a single atomizer that can become clogged and less efficient over time. A fresh atomizer will insure that you get the highest volume of vapor on each puff, adding to a more satisfactory smoking experience.
Let’s go over what each component does:
1. Atomizer. This heats up and vaporizes a mixture of liquid nicotine. The sensation of inhaling this vapor is very similar to real cigarette smoke but without the same health risks. It even has a warm feel to it which adds to a realistic experience. The vapor produces a cloud that looks like smoke but is actually just a mist that quickly disappears.
2. Battery. Nothing too complicated here, just a rechargeable battery that powers the atomizer. It is shaped to look like the body of a real cigarette. The lifespan of batteries varies from model to model. The lifespan depends on the number of mouth puffs. Typically you will get 150 – 400 puffs before having to recharge the battery.
3. Nicotine cartridge. These cartridges are made up of a water/nicotine solution. A single cartridge is typically the equivalent of 1 – 1.5 packs of tobacco cigarettes. Different nicotine strengths are available in high, low, or medium. Most manufacturers also offer a variety of flavors ranging from traditional tobacco flavor, menthol, vanilla, chocolate and fruit flavors.
The electronic cigarette is surprisingly similar to the real thing but without the same health risks. There is no lingering offensive odor. It’s also a lot less expensive than tobacco cigarettes. This combined with the fact that you can use it anywhere makes e-smoking a sensible and healthier alternative, one worth considering either for yourself or a loved one.