Shisha and Weight Gain: Myths and Realities Explored
, by M Ahmad, 4 min reading time
Shisha, commonly known as hookah, has become a popular social pastime, bringing people together to enjoy flavoured tobacco through water pipes. Its relaxing nature makes it a preferred choice in many cultures. However, questions about whether this habit could be linked to weight gain are emerging. With increasing curiosity around the relationship between shisha smoking and weight, it's time to separate fact from fiction. So, can smoking shisha make you gain weight? Let’s dive into the details.
Can Shisha Cause Weight Gain?
No, smoking shisha itself does not directly cause weight gain because shisha tobacco contains no calories.
However, while the act of smoking doesn’t contribute to weight gain, the social habits surrounding shisha sessions might. Many people enjoy shisha in social settings where food and drinks are readily available. The snacks, sugary drinks, or alcohol often consumed during these gatherings can add unnecessary calories to your diet, potentially leading to weight gain over time.
Additionally, shisha sessions can last for hours, promoting a sedentary lifestyle. Although shisha itself isn’t calorific, the related behaviours during these sessions can gradually contribute to an increase in weight.
Lifestyle Habits Linked to Shisha Smoking
- Social Eating: Shisha smoking often goes hand in hand with social gatherings where snacks or meals are served. These foods are often high in calories, which can add up quickly if you're regularly indulging.
- Sugary Drinks: It's common to see shisha smokers sipping on sweet beverages like sodas, juices, or even sugary teas during sessions. These drinks pack hidden calories that can contribute to weight gain.
- Alcohol Consumption: In some settings, alcohol is consumed alongside shisha. Alcohol is high in empty calories, and drinking it while smoking can increase overall caloric intake.
- Prolonged Sitting: Shisha sessions tend to be lengthy, often lasting several hours. The extended sitting without physical activity encourages a sedentary lifestyle, which is linked to weight gain over time.
- Frequent Social Gatherings: Regular shisha meet-ups can lead to repeated exposure to unhealthy eating and drinking habits. When paired with long periods of inactivity, these habits can slowly contribute to weight gain.
Smoking, Metabolism, and Weight Changes
Smoking in general has been shown to increase metabolism due to the nicotine content slightly. However, when it comes to shisha smoking, there isn’t substantial evidence to suggest that it directly impacts weight gain or significantly alters metabolism.
While shisha itself doesn’t lead to weight gain, it’s important to keep in mind the broader health risks associated with smoking. The long-term effects on your health far outweigh any concerns about weight, making it crucial to consider the overall impact of shisha smoking on your body.
Conclusion: Shisha and Weight Gain – The Bottom Line
Shisha smoking does not directly cause weight gain, as it doesn’t contain calories. However, it’s the lifestyle choices made during shisha sessions, like consuming high-calorie snacks and sugary drinks or sitting for extended periods, that can lead to weight gain over time.
To maintain a balanced lifestyle, it’s essential to be mindful of your habits. Try pairing your shisha sessions with healthier food options, stay active, and avoid excess consumption of high-calorie drinks or snacks.
At The Premium Way, we believe in enjoying shisha responsibly. We offer a wide range of premium shisha products and accessories that enhance your smoking experience while helping you maintain balance in your lifestyle. Whether you’re a casual smoker or a shisha enthusiast, our top-quality products will ensure you enjoy your sessions fully. Visit our website today to explore our range and enjoy your shisha experience with confidence!