ABSTRACT

Introduction:
Certain foods and beverages are associated with smoking craving. However, only few studies have explored the relationship between food or beverage-related and taste-associated smoking craving. In this study, we aimed to identify the types of foods related to smoking craving in Japanese individuals who smoke cigarettes or heated tobacco products (HTPs).

Methods:
A total of 657 individuals (HTP and cigarette smokers and never smokers) participated in this cross-sectional study. Participants were asked what foods/beverages, tastes, seasonings, cooking methods, and cuisine categories, made them want to smoke and what foods they consumed.

Results:
Alcoholic beverages such as beer, coffee, and fat-rich foods were associated with a higher likelihood of smoking craving. Fruits, dairy products such as milk, and sweet and sour tastes, were associated with a lower likelihood of smoking craving. The daily intake of fruit and dairy products was significantly lower in cigarette and HTP smokers than in non-smokers (median fruit intake: non-smokers, 46.4 g/1000 kcal/day; cigarette smokers, 22.2 g/1000 kcal/day; HTP smokers, 31.4 g/1000 kcal/day; p<0.001; median dairy product intake: non-smokers, 76.3 g/day; cigarette smokers, 48.2 g/day; HTP smokers, 57.6 g/day; p<0.001) as assessed using a food frequency questionnaire (BDHQ).

Conclusions:
Specific foods and beverages such as alcohol, fruits, and dairy products are related to smoking craving, and their intake differs according to smoking status.

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