Is Cannabis Good Or Bad For The Digestive System?

How does cannabis affect the digestive system?

Cannabis is known to have different effects on different people, and this also applies to how the herb affects digestion. There’s a lot more to the interaction between weed and the digestive system than just the “kibbles” most stoners are familiar with. Everything you need to know about the digestive effects of cannabis, both good and bad, is below.

There is no doubt that there is a complex interaction between cannabis and the human body. There’s a lot to unpack when it comes to the effects of cannabis, and there’s still a lot we don’t know, as the interactions between cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system are largely responsible for our responses.

How cannabis affects the digestive system, on the other hand, is a topic that gets a lot of attention. Now, while that might play a role, we’re not just talking about the cravings; Rather, we look at the bigger picture of how cannabis can affect digestion and other gut issues. Read on for the full details.

Cannabis and Digestion

Cannabis mainly reacts with the end system of cannabinoids in the human body. The endocannabinoid system, also referred to as the ECS, is a network of receptors distributed throughout the body and brain/central nervous system. However, the digestive system also has cannabis receptors.

The effects of introducing marijuana into the body can be seen through these intricate and precisely engineered receptors. Depending on the person and their reaction, the results can have both positive and negative effects on a user.

Let’s deviate a bit to discuss the production of ghrelin and the breakdown of THC.

Relationship between THC and ghrelin

Ghrelin is a hormone that is released into the body when we get hungry. It interacts with the vagus nerve in the gastrointestinal tract before traveling to the hypothalamus, a region of the brain that controls these types of signals.

It’s interesting to note that research suggests that THC can increase ghrelin levels, which signals our brain that we may not actually be hungry (Stromberg, 2014). This is of course how the term “munchies” is defined in a textbook. Therefore, while smoking might make you feel really hungry, you probably aren’t. In addition, THC is claimed to increase our sensitivity to smell and enjoyment of eating, which can also cause us to feel an increased appetite (Stromberg, 2014). We can be “tricked” into eating more than we normally would by these interactions between cannabinoids and the endocannabinoid system.

Cannabis and Gut Health

We currently understand that the ECS definitely has a variety of effects on the digestive tract. It promotes communication between the gut and the brain, controls inflammation and regulates digestion. As with any other area of ​​the body, cannabis appears to explicitly help with inflammation in the GI system. Another area of ​​high concentration of cannabinoid receptors in the digestive system.

Cannabis can affect our digestive system in a number of ways, e.g. B. by increasing hunger or giving us cravings. Still, there is evidence that marijuana can affect some digestive issues as well. It’s no secret that many cannabis users only use the drug for holistic benefits; So, can we tout this as another aspect of well-being?

Some studies have examined the link between cannabis and diseases such as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), including Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis; However, formal research into the effects of cannabis on digestion is still in its infancy.

A 2011 study led by Naftali looked at disease severity before and after cannabis use in 30 people with Crohn’s disease. Although this is a single study, the results are encouraging. Due to its anti-inflammatory properties, medicinal cannabis for IBD has been shown to reduce some of the symptoms of the condition. Some of these problems that medical marijuana can alleviate are nausea and vomiting caused by chemotherapy or cancer treatment, as weight loss therapy for AIDS-related weight loss or anorexia, constipation and cramps, diarrhea, and acid reflux.

Side effects of cannabis on the digestive system

Cannabis appears to have the ability to improve digestion; However, it has disadvantages and can have both immediate and long-term negative effects in this area. Cannabis use may not be suitable for everyone, especially those with digestive disorders, even if they are not serious or life-threatening.

As previously mentioned, cannabis high in THC can promote the release of ghrelin, which could increase appetite. However, it could also have the opposite result. Cannabis has different effects on different people, and that includes appetite. Weed can both relieve and stimulate hunger. This can be caused by the nausea that comes from consuming excessive doses of cannabis, or the anxiety and restlessness that comes with ingesting THC.

Common medical conditions caused by excessive consumption of cannabis

Prolonged use of cannabis can lead to chronic diseases. Although most of these diseases are very rare.

Cannabis-induced acute pancreatitis

Another incredibly rare disease is acute pancreatitis. It can cause fever, severe nausea and vomiting. According to one study, some patients who used cannabis to treat their symptoms instead found their condition worsened with each use. However, studies are sparse and do not show the real effects of cannabis.

Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome

Frequent nausea and vomiting are symptoms of cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome. It is thought to be caused by a breakdown in communication between the brain and the digestive tract. Chronic cannabis users can attempt to permanently stop their marijuana use to manage their symptoms. Those struggling can also find relief with capsaicin cream.

bottom line

Not everyone experiences digestive issues when consuming cannabis over a long period of time. Factors like genetics, dosage, and type of cannabis play a role.

While there are downsides to the digestive system of cannabis use, there are benefits as well. The future of cannabis and the digestive system depends heavily on the amount of research that is done in the years to come. We need more information on the herb’s effects on a person’s appetite and digestion.

CANNABIS FOR YOUR DIGESTIVE SYSTEM, READ MORE…

CANNABIS FOR DIGESTION, HOW THE PLANT INTERACTS WITH YOUR STOMACH!