Menthol cigarettes have not been legal in Canada since 2017. However, smokers continue to mention them when they talk. Reflecting on what responsible habits should look like today is essential if you have used menthol in the past or are currently using legal replacements, such as menthol alternatives.
Let us talk about smarter ways to smoke without judging and with your health in mind.
Understand what’s acceptable and what is not
Many smokers try to get menthol-style enjoyment by adding capsules or special cards to their devices, but it is unclear if these are allowed by Canadian regulations. It’s your responsibility to:
- See if there are any specific rules on flavored tobacco accessories nearby
- Try not to buy products from channels that have not been regulated legally
- Visit either the Health Canada website or the provincial health authority website for the most up-to-date information.
As an adult smoker, it is important to depend on facts, not simple assumptions.
Keep it private and respectful
Flavored smoking products often leave a lasting odor that is hard to get rid of. To respect the community and help protect everyone, try your best to:
- Use proper designated places before you light up
- Don’t smoke where children or people who do not smoke are present
- Watch out for others on balconies and on the sidewalks.
Being conscious of people’s health and safety is an important part of being responsible.
Understand why you choose menthol
The fresh sensation from menthol cigarettes Canada can make it feel easier to smoke, which also adds to the problem. It takes away from the harshness of tobacco, making inhalation deeper and letting in more nicotine. Spend some time reflecting on your own experience:
- Is your use of menthol only to feel less stressed, or have you turned it into a habit?
- How can you avoid giving in to cravings?
If you know what motivates your smoking habit, you can decide what works best for you.
Limit use and set boundaries
Taking time to set boundaries is important, even if you smoke just a little or you have menthol accessories. Try this:
- Decide on a daily or weekly amount of smoking that you will not exceed
- Try not to smoke the first thing after waking up
- Make it a point to combine your habit with one that is healthy, for example, drinking water, walking, or journaling.
You can start making changes slowly instead of going all in at once. Being responsible is largely about finding balance rather than striving for perfection.
Acknowledge that you can change your mind
Perhaps you’re not ready to quit. But that doesn’t mean you’re doing something wrong. If you smoke menthol cigarettes and want to quit, support and help is available.
- Remember to bookmark the Smokers’ Helpline, which is available in Canada
- Install a quit-smoking app to see when you use tobacco most often
- Discuss different low-pressure procedures with your healthcare professional.
The takeaway
You can smoke and still take care of yourself. This means paying attention to those around you and being informed are important parts of responsible use, which you can do on your own.
