Ever stopped to think what may be fueling your favorite footballer on the pitch? Sure, it could be talent or training, but snus may also play a role. A popular oral smokeless tobacco product, snus is helping players in more ways than you could imagine. And the best part? You won’t see it in action coz it’s discreet and mess-free.
So, why would such professionals opt for a product like this? Is it for performance? Habit? Or something deeper, say, culture? Let’s dive in to learn more.
What are the stats?
You will be surprised by how many footballers use snus. In a recent survey by Loughborough University, one in every five male or female players used either a nicotine pouch or smokeless tobacco. Surprisingly, there are more female players than male players hooked on nicotine.
Famous footballers are in it, too. For instance, Benzema, James Lascelles, and Dele Alli are already getting a quick fix.
Why are footballers going for snus?
Good question. Well, snus contains nicotine, and the stimulant knows how to stir things up. It alters the way the brain works, increases blood circulation, and tells your body to release “feel-good” hormones like dopamine. This leads to:
Improved performance
Once the dopamine kicks in, the player becomes more alert, focused and remains active in the field throughout. In fact, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) reports that nicotine enhances performance by up to 13%. This is a big deal and can be the difference between a win and a walk-off.
Reduced anxiety
Have you ever watched a team facing relegation play in the field? In a must-do match, these players are under high pressure to perform. Such stress can cause them to behave erratically and fail to coordinate.
That’s where snus comes in handy. And with it comes the release of dopamine in the body. So, players can chill out, focus and get their head back in the game. Moreover, there’s less panic, less loss, and a good chance to remain in the League.
Keeping the food portion in check
Ever admired the athletic bodies of footballers? They must control their food portions to stay fit and perform well on the pitch. However, it’s not always easy.
Nicotine comes to the rescue by stimulating the release of serotonin and norepinephrine (hormones that say, “Hey, you’re full!”). The result? Players feel satisfied with smaller food portions.
Others? Just going with the flow–literally
Fun fact: Snus has been a recreational product in Eastern Europe since the 18th century. So, some players from the region have been taking it as part of their culture for a long time, even before they stepped onto the pitch.
Also, it’s not uncommon for players to influence their colleagues to try snus use while in the dressing rooms. This, in turn, becomes a social norm or bonding ritual within teams, passed along not just through tradition but peer acceptance.
Are there any health issues involved?
Health experts warn that snus overuse may affect footballers’ bodies in many ways. Given that nicotine is quite addictive, users should take it in moderation. Here are some of the risks:
- Oral issues: Snus may cause gum disease and mouth lesions, which may be an avenue for gum disease and other oral problems.
- Withdrawal issues: When the user stops using nicotine, they may become restless, irritable, or anxious. Others have sleep problems and a dry mouth.
- Cardiovascular problems: Nicotine increases the heart rate and blood pressure. It may impair blood vessels and overwork the heart muscles. If the heart gets overworked for long, it tends to fail, or one suffers a stroke. This is a big risk in highly strenuous activities like football and athletics.
- Pancreatic and oral cancer: There is a moderate increase in the risk of oral and pancreatic cancer with long-term snus use. While the risk is lower than in smokers, it is still higher than in people who neither take snus nor smoke.
Wrapping it up
Don’t be surprised if you find your favorite footballer using snus. They may be trying to deal with anxiety, keep fit, or just relax when tense. The good thing is that health risks are reduced if taken in moderation.
Is snus illegal? No. Many players rely on it. In fact, the Professional Footballers' Association shares information on risks and the safe usage of the product. As long as players follow this, they are less likely to face the negative effects of nicotine.