It’s been more than seven months since I quit using nicotine, and I’d like to share some of my experiences since then.
First and foremost, I’m super happy it’s been this long since I quit. I don’t have any cravings anymore, but sometimes I get a stray thought that misses the nicotine.
In no particular order, here are some of the most important things I’ve noticed since then.
Less Dopamine
It has been a transition getting used to the less constant flow of dopamine. It has forced me to find positive outlets to create dopamine instead, so that’s good. Also, the dopamine will balance itself and increase naturally once the brain gets used to not having nicotine to boost it all the time.
At the same time that I noticed this, I also felt less energetic in the gym. I did some research and found that dopamine is important when it comes to stimulating testosterone. Less dopamine equals less testosterone. You can feel that in every aspect of your life. I found that supplementing with Rhodiola Rosea helped boost both the dopamine and the testosterone.
Nerves Regenerating
I’ve read that nicotine kills nerves and I think that’s a fact. I used to get numb fingers quite a bit before I quit using, but after I quit I would feel pain in my fingers. I think that’s because the nerves are regenerating and you start to feel where you haven’t in a while.
Better Stamina
When I was using nicotine, it was almost impossible to increase my stamina. Training cardio didn’t work. Nicotine makes you breathe twice as heavily because it constricts your veins. Now, I’m making great progress doing cardio once or twice per week.
