It is possible that the toxins in the smoke stimulate an inflammatory response that causes tissues to become resistant to the effects of the hormone insulin, that regulates glucose in the blood. "However, it is also possible that hookah smoking is associated with other social behaviours that lead to weight gain."

What is the side effect of shisha?

Smoking shisha is associated with three main detrimental health effects: cardiovascular damage, infection and cancer formation (Table ​ 1). Much of the morbidity and mortality associated with shisha smoking can be attributed to impairment of the cardiovascular system.

Is shisha worse than cigarettes?

A single shisha session could have the same negative effects as smoking more than a packet of cigarettes, new research has found. It also found that smoking shisha “significantly increases” a person's risk of diabetes and obesity.