Important roleHealthy nutritionIn the lifespan of individuals who have quit smoking
There are many benefits forquitting smokingFor example, you break a harmful habit and can also add years to your life. If you are among those who have recently quit smoking, you should know that according to recent studies, you can reduce the risk of life-threatening problems alongside a healthy diet.
According to studies conducted by researchers around the world, analyses were performed on 159,000 smokers. These studies were conducted in 1995 and 1996. The average age of participants was 62 years, and they answered questions about their lifestyles. They were observed for nearly 19 years, during which time 86,000 of them passed away.
The diets of those involved in these studies were compared with dietary habits index in 2015, and it showed that those with a higher diet index had a 27% lower risk of mortality.
In simpler terms, the findings of this research showed that those who previously smoked and tried tomaintain a healthy diet after quitting smokinglived longer.
They also noted that these individuals were 24% less likely to be at risk for cancer, 28% less likely for cardiovascular diseases, and 30% less likely for respiratory illnesses. A healthy lifestyle includes exercise and a nutritious diet, which is recommended for everyone, especially those who have quit smoking.
Besthealthy foodsfor those who have quit smoking
A healthy diet means consuming fruits, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, dairy, protein, seafood, plant-based proteins, and foods that contain healthy fats; it should also involve reducing industrial grains, sodium, sugar, and saturated fats. However, there are some nutrients that former smokers should pay extra attention to.
For example, vitamin C is one of the nutrients that smokers need more of compared to those who have never smoked, as smoking lowers the levels of beta-carotene, selenium,zinc, vitamin E, and some B vitamins. On the other hand, these individuals likely consumed fewer fruits and vegetables when they were smokers, which has resulted in lower levels of vitamin C and carotenoids in their bodies.
