What happens to your memory when you give up smoking?

We have already written about what happens to the body after quitting cigarettes. But you still have questions, so today we asked the expert about the impact of addiction on memory. As it turns out, cigarettes deprive a person not only of health, but also of memories. No fiction – scientists say that smokers are worse at memorizing information and solve complex problems 20% slower than non-smokers.

GP

Cigarette smoke is made up of thousands of compounds, many of which are toxic to the brain.

Georgy: Scientists have long been investigating the link between smoking and various diseases. For example, it has already been proven that cigarettes lead to dementia – dementia, which is characterized by memory loss and reduced cognitive functions of the brain. Studies show that smoking affects almost all areas and structures of the brain, and with it short-term and long-term memory.

Why does this happen?

George: Cigarette smoke consists of thousands of compounds, many of which are toxic to the brain, cardiovascular and pulmonary systems. A harmful habit increases brain atrophy (reduction and loss of brain matter volume). This is an indicator of brain aging and cognitive decline. Smokers also have higher levels of oxidative stress biomarkers – indicating damage to brain tissue.

And don’t forget that everyone can break the habit of picking up a cigarette. It will take a lot of time, but the first result you will see in 20 minutes – during this time the heart rate decreases and comes to normal. What to speak about a longer refusal from a bad habit. Be sure to keep an eye on your health.