Inside footballers’ use of snus as smokeless nicotine takes over with stars
It’s becoming more and more popular in the modern game for footballers to use snus with reports showing a huge amount of star’s using the nicotine product
Snus has become increasingly popular among footballers(Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)
Footballers these days are rarely spotted with a cigarette or cigar hanging out of their mouths, unless they’re celebrating and unwinding.
Smoking used to be incredibly prevalent in the game but over the last few decades when the serious health risks have been uncovered, the modern game has moved to stamp out the habit. Despite this, players are still looking to find a quick nicotine hit, with players such as Marcus Rashford, Dele Alli and Jamie Vardy all previously spotted with a container of snus.
Snus is a smokeless oral tobacco placed on the upper lip of the gum and has been part of Swedish culture for generations.
JOIN US ON FB! Get all the best sports news and much more on our Facebook page
The growth of snus outside of Scandinavia has grown over the past century and is attracting attention in the UK, even though it isn’t legally sold on these shores – only tobacco-free pouches are legal.
Although the health risks of nicotine and snus include addiction, gum disease, increase in cancer and cardiovascular issues, including high blood pressure, snus has become increasingly popular in the game.
According to a Loughborough University report, commissioned by the PFA, one in five professional footballers in England use snus or nicotine pouches, while around 40 per cent of professional footballers have tried them.
Ensure our latest sport headlines always appear at the top of your Google Search by making us a Preferred Source. Click here to activate or add us as a Preferred Source in your Google search settings.
Alternative Nicotine Product expert Markus Lindblad from Northerner explained why snus and nicotine pouches have become so prevalent.
“Modern football is stressful and demands constant concentration,” he said.
“With packed schedules, travel, late kick-offs and high-pressure moments, players are always looking for ways to stay mentally switched on and deal with stress.
“Nicotine stimulates the brain’s dopamine system, which is linked to alertness, focus and motivation. Research indicates it can help users feel more present and engaged, similar to the effect of caffeine.
“Nicotine also slightly increases blood pressure and cortisol levels, which can help the body feel ready and alert, which may explain why some footballers believe it supports their performance on the pitch and helps them to relax off the pitch.”
Lindblad added: “The discrete nature of nicotine pouches may also be an attraction for professional footballers. With so much scrutiny of their personal lives and habits, pouches offer an inconspicuous way to consume nicotine.”
Snus is highly addictive and sometimes marketed as a less harmful alternative to smoking, although serious health risks are still well documented.
