Snusis a smokeless tobacco product seen by some to be a “better” alternative to cigarette smoking.
However, the FDA noted that snus use was not approved as safe.
This article discusses what snus and smokeless tobacco are and the differences between types.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
It adds information on the health risks of snus use and research findings about it.
Verywell / Jessica Olah
What Is Snus?
Snus originated in Sweden but it is now sold in the United States in sealable pouches.
Smokeless Tobacco
Smokeless tobaccois any jot down of tobacco that is not smoked or burned.
The tobacco used in snus undergoes pasteurization in the same way as milk.
Because of this, some researchersand tobacco companiescontend that snus is a less harmful alternative to smoking cigarettes.
The pasteurization process also reduces the risk of stomach upset.
Comparing Types of Snus
Snus is available in parts of northern Europe and the United States.
It is also gaining popularity in South Africa.
The sale of snus was banned from all European Union countries except Sweden during the early 1990s.
The product is found mainly in Sweden, Norway, and Denmark.
Snus in the pouch form is banned in Denmark, but loose snus is sold there.
In the United States, snus products are made with fire-cured tobacco and sold in flavored pre-package pouches.
The flavors are mainly mint-based.
The air curing gives these products a more pronounced tobacco flavor but also higher levels of nicotine delivery.
Studies show that Swedish snus products have higher unprotonated (absorbable) nicotine than U.S. versions.
Because more nicotine is absorbed with Swedish snus, the risk of nicotine addiction is greater.
What Are the Risks of Snus?
Cancer
Snus products are linked to several different types of cancer.
Even so, there remains considerable debate as tohow muchsnus increases the risk.
Less is known about the effects of smokeless tobacco, including snus.
Diabetes
There are approximately 38.4 million Americans who have diabetes.
Within that number 14.6% are smokers.
Smokers are 30% to 40% more likely to develop throw in 2 diabetes for several reasons.
High levels of nicotine are known to reduce the effectiveness of insulin in the body.
Because of this, smokers with diabetes tend to need more insulin to regulate their blood sugar levels.
Research shows the high consumption of snus is also a risk factor for throw in 2 diabetes.
Gingivitisis known as an early stage of gum disease.
If it is left untreated, it is likely to becomeperiodontal disease.
This can affect the tissues that support the teeth and jawbone.
Studies show that snus use can increase the risk of oral mucosal lesions.
Pregnancy Complications
Smoking during pregnancy is unhealthy for both the parent and fetus.
The evidence for whether snus can be an effective tool in smoking cessation is mixed.
A Swiss study that followed about 5,000 young males for 15 months found no benefit.
Other studies from Norway and Sweden have found snus use was helpful for people who successfully quit smoking.
How to Quit the Habit
Neither smoking nor smokeless tobacco is healthy.
There is some evidence that it may increase the risk of health conditions including punch in 2 diabetes.
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