One of the most frequently asked questions about vaping is: Do vapes contain calories? In today’s world, where people are increasingly health conscious and mindful of their weight, it’s a valid concern. Many e-liquids have sweet flavors, leading some to wonder if vaping contributes to caloric intake and weight gain.
We’ve already explored vaping’s potential impact on workouts and whether it can influence body composition, including weight control. Some studies suggest that vaping, particularly nicotine consumption, can affect appetite. But does this mean that vapes contribute to your daily caloric intake? Let’s dive into the details.
Understanding Vape Juice Ingredients
To determine whether vapes have calories, Do vapes contain calories we need to break down the composition of e-liquids. Vape juice, also known as e-liquid, typically contains:
- Propylene Glycol (PG): A synthetic liquid that enhances flavor and mimics the throat hit of cigarettes.
- Vegetable Glycerin (VG): A thick, slightly sweet liquid that contributes to vapor production.
- Nicotine: An addictive substance found in tobacco, though some e-liquids are nicotine free.
- Flavorings: Food grade ingredients that add various flavors, such as fruit, candy, menthol, or dessert like profiles.
The key ingredients affecting caloric content are vegetable glycerin (VG) and flavorings.
Does E-Liquid Contain Calories?
Yes, vape liquids do contain calories, but the amount is negligible. Studies examining vaping’s impact on weight suggest that nicotine plays a bigger role in appetite suppression than the caloric content of e-liquids.
1. Vegetable Glycerin (VG) Has Calories
VG is a sugar alcohol derived from plants and contains approximately 4 calories per gram. Since VG is a primary ingredient in high VG e-liquids, it does contribute to the overall caloric content.
2. Flavorings and Sweeteners
Most flavorings and sweeteners used in vape juice are calorie free. However, some manufacturers may use sugar based ingredients, which could slightly increase calorie content. Reputable brands typically avoid added sugars, opting for artificial or natural sweeteners that do not contribute significant calories.
3. Nicotine and Appetite Suppression
Nicotine does not contain calories but influences appetite. Studies suggest that nicotine modifies the brain’s reward system by stimulating dopamine release, which can trick the body into feeling satiated. This appetite suppression is why many smokers and vapers report lower hunger levels.
How Many Calories Are in an Average Vape?
When considering the caloric content of e-liquids, the key concern is whether vaping contributes to weight gain. Fortunately, despite their sweet taste, most vape juices have minimal caloric impact.
- Propylene Glycol (PG) and Vegetable Glycerin (VG) contain approximately 4 calories per mL.
- An average 10mL bottle of e-liquid contains around 30-50 calories in total.
- Flavored e-liquids generally do not have additional calories unless they contain sugar, which most reputable brands avoid.
Even if you vape regularly, the calorie intake from e-liquid is minimal compared to the calories burned simply by moving throughout the day.
Does Vaping Contribute to Weight Gain?
While vape liquids contain small amounts of calories, they do not contribute significantly to weight gain for the following reasons:
- Calories From Inhaled Vapor Are Not Digested: Unlike food, vapor is inhaled, not consumed in a way that contributes to caloric intake.
- Minimal Absorption Through the Lungs: Even though VG has calories, it is not absorbed like food and does not provide usable energy to the body.
- Nicotine Suppresses Appetite: Many studies suggest that nicotine can reduce hunger, which might contribute to weight loss rather than gain.
Does Vaping Break a Fast?
Many people practicing intermittent fasting wonder if vaping affects their fast. Since VG has calories, it technically could break a fast if absorbed. However, because the absorption rate is minimal, vaping is unlikely to significantly impact fasting.
Some flavored e-liquids could trigger an insulin response, so if you follow a strict fasting regimen, it’s best to avoid sweetened vape juices during fasting periods.
Can Vaping Be Used for Weight Control?
While some vapers notice a reduction in hunger due to nicotine’s appetite suppressing effects, using vaping as a weight control tool is not recommended.
- Nicotine Can Reduce Appetite: Some studies show that nicotine suppresses hunger, which can lead to weight loss.
- Vaping May Help Reduce Snacking: Some users find that flavored vapes satisfy sweet cravings, reducing the urge to eat sugary snacks.
- Weight Gain After Quitting Smoking: Many smokers gain weight after quitting due to increased appetite. Switching to vaping may help mitigate this effect, but it should not be used as a diet strategy.
Should You Worry About Calories in Vapes?
The short answer is no. While vape juice contains small amounts of calories, they are not absorbed in a way that impacts weight. If you are counting calories or following a strict diet, vaping will have little to no impact on your overall intake.
Key Takeaways:
- Vape liquids contain calories, primarily from VG and flavorings.
- Calories in vape juice are negligible and are not digested like food.
- Vaping does not significantly contribute to weight gain.
- Nicotine can suppress appetite, but vaping should not be used as a weight loss tool.
- Vaping is unlikely to break a fast, though some sweeteners may trigger insulin responses.
If you’re vaping as a smoking alternative, there’s no need to worry about caloric intake. However, if you have dietary concerns, speaking with a healthcare professional is always a good idea. Ultimately, focusing on a balanced diet and active lifestyle is far more important than worrying about the minimal calories in vape juice.
