Does Vaping Have Calories? The Truth About Weight Loss and Gain

Vaping has become a popular alternative to smoking, but many people wonder about its impact on weight. A common question is: Does vaping have calories? To answer this and explore vaping’s connection to weight loss or gain, let’s dive into the science.

Do Vapes Have Calories?

Yes, technically, vape liquids contain calories, but the amount is minimal. Vape juice is primarily made up of propylene glycol (PG) and vegetable glycerin (VG), with added flavorings and nicotine (in most cases). These ingredients do have some caloric content—about four calories per gram. For example, a standard 10ml bottle of e-liquid contains around 40 calories, and a disposable vape has about 8 calories.

However, these calories are not absorbed by the body through inhalation. Since calories are absorbed through digestion, inhaling vapor does not lead to the consumption of these calories.

Can You Absorb Calories from Vaping?

No, you cannot absorb calories from vaping. While e-liquids contain a small number of calories, they are not absorbed when you inhale vapor. Calories must be consumed through food or drink to be processed by the body. Therefore, you don’t need to worry about vaping causing direct weight gain from caloric intake.

Does Vaping Affect Your Weight?

While vaping doesn’t directly impact your weight through calorie consumption, it can still influence weight in other ways. The primary factor here is nicotine.

Does Vaping Make You Lose Weight?

Nicotine, found in many e-liquids, is a known appetite suppressant. Research indicates that nicotine can reduce appetite, making you feel less hungry and potentially contributing to weight loss. Vaping also involves frequent hand-to-mouth movements, which some argue could reduce food cravings by mimicking the action of eating. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove this habit has a significant impact on weight loss.

While nicotine can affect hunger, we do not recommend vaping as a weight loss method. Using nicotine products purely to control appetite is not a healthy approach, and they should only be used by those trying to quit smoking, not as a diet tool.

Does Vaping Make You Gain Weight?

While vaping does not directly cause weight gain, stopping nicotine use may lead to weight gain for some individuals. This happens because nicotine suppresses appetite, and when you quit, your hunger returns to normal. Some people also replace the habit of vaping with snacking, which could lead to weight gain.

However, it’s important to note that vape juice does not contain enough calories to make you gain weight through vaping alone.

Can You Vape While Fasting?

Yes, you can vape while fasting, especially if you’re using nicotine-free e-liquids. Since vaping doesn’t involve consuming calories or breaking your fast, it is generally considered acceptable during fasting periods. However, if you’re using nicotine, be mindful that it might suppress your appetite, which could make it easier to fast but might also interfere with hunger cues.

Nicotine’s Role in Weight Management

Research suggests that nicotine impacts weight by reducing appetite and increasing energy expenditure. A 2021 study found that nicotine suppresses appetite and boosts metabolism, potentially leading to weight loss over time. However, nicotine is addictive, and its use should not be promoted for weight control purposes.

Does Quitting Vaping Lead to Weight Gain?

Some people experience weight gain after quitting vaping. This is because nicotine withdrawal can lead to increased hunger and a slower metabolism, which may result in weight gain. Additionally, some ex-smokers and vapers tend to replace the habit of vaping with eating, further contributing to weight gain. If you are concerned about gaining weight after quitting, focus on maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise to manage this transition.

The Bottom Line: Vaping and Weight

In summary, vaping does not directly cause weight gain or loss. While nicotine can suppress appetite and lead to reduced food intake, vaping should not be used as a weight management tool. The calories in vape juice are negligible and cannot be absorbed through inhalation, so they won’t impact your caloric intake.

If you are vaping as a way to quit smoking, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and exercise. Avoid using vaping as a substitute for food, and consult a healthcare professional for guidance on healthy weight management.