Many people switch from traditional cigarettes to nicotine-free vapes believing they are a safer option, but new research challenges this assumption. A recent study reveals that vaping—regardless of whether nicotine is present—can impair vascular function, potentially increasing risks of heart disease and circulatory problems.
Vaping devices, or e-cigarettes, heat flavored liquids to create inhalable vapor, often composed of propylene glycol and vegetable glycerin. While these ingredients are generally safe to eat, their inhalation after heating produces harmful byproducts that irritate the lungs and airways, causing chronic coughing, shortness of breath, and inflammation.
The appealing flavors that make vaping popular, such as fruit or mint, often contain chemicals like diacetyl (linked to “popcorn lung”) and benzaldehyde, which can damage the respiratory system. Additionally, vape coils may release heavy metals like lead and nickel into vapor.
Dr. Michael Blaha of Johns Hopkins Medicine warns, “You’re exposing yourself to all kinds of chemicals that we don’t yet understand and that are probably not safe,” emphasizing that even nicotine-free vaping is far from harmless.
Alarmingly, vaping is surging among youth — with millions of middle and high school students using flavored e-cigarettes. Many who begin vaping nicotine-free liquids may unknowingly expose themselves to addiction or health risks since some products still carry trace amounts of nicotine.
Research shows that nicotine impacts brain development and can lead to long-term dependency. Ultimately, vaping without nicotine still presents significant health concerns, and users should reconsider its safety.
