Pillar
Substance Use
Alcohol and nicotine patterns influence weight, sleep, liver health, and cardiometabolic risk.
Why this pillar is included
Substance use can affect appetite regulation, sleep quality, inflammation, blood pressure, and adherence to nutrition and activity plans.
Alcohol
Even moderate intake can increase sleep fragmentation and make metabolic goals harder to sustain in some patients.
Nicotine and tobacco
Smoking and vaping have significant cardiometabolic harms. Cessation is one of the highest-value risk-reduction steps.
Practical support
- Set a clear reduction or cessation target.
- Track triggers and high-risk times.
- Use social and clinical supports early instead of waiting for setbacks.
Clinical coordination
Discuss medications, withdrawal planning, and relapse-prevention options with your healthcare team.
References
- Alcohol and Weight Gain (Current Obesity Reports (2023)) Link
- Canadian Guidance on Alcohol and Health (Canadian Centre on Substance Use and Addiction) Link
- Smoking Cessation and Cardiovascular Risk (Circulation (2019)) Link
- Tobacco Cessation: A Report of the Surgeon General (U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (2020)) Link
