Effects Of Smoking Effects Of Smoking Smoking affects every part
of the body, including the gastrointestinal tract. In every
puff, cigarette smokers inhale over 400 toxins and 43 known
carcinogens. InteliHealth Medical Content Smoking affects every
part of the body, including the gastrointestinal tract. In every
puff, cigarette smokers inhale over 400 toxins and 43 known
carcinogens. From the lungs, these toxins have easy access to
the bloodstream, which allows them to circulate throughout the
body. While everyone is familiar with the links between smoking
and lung cancer, emphysema and coronary artery disease, few
people think about the effects of smoking on the digestive
system. Studies have shown that smokers have weaker or less
frequent stomach contractions while smoking, which can cause
less efficient digestion and can allow acid to accumulate,
promoting acid reflux. Smoking also can cause loosening of the
lower esophageal sphincter, can increase stomach acid secretion,
and can reduce bicarbonate product