Another bad modern day trend— everyone thinks that weed, smoking weed THC, CBD has no *negative* effects on our physiology… that it is “all good”?
Hormonal
Smoking weed or marijuana fucks up your testosterone levels!!!
Also for women and men … it can mess with your fertility levels?
Marijuana can affect the body’s hormonal systems, though the extent and implications of these effects can vary and are still a subject of ongoing research. Some key areas where marijuana may impact hormones include:
- Reproductive Hormones: Marijuana use has been linked to changes in the reproductive system. In men, it can lower testosterone levels and affect sperm count and mobility, potentially impacting fertility. In women, it may disrupt menstrual cycles and could influence fertility as well.
- Stress Response: THC, the psychoactive component in marijuana, can affect the body’s stress response system, including hormones like cortisol. This might have implications for stress management, anxiety, and overall health.
- Growth and Development: There’s some evidence suggesting that marijuana use, especially in adolescents, can impact hormones related to growth and development. This is particularly concerning because the hormonal regulation during adolescence is crucial for physical and sexual development.
- Thyroid Function: Some studies have suggested a potential impact on thyroid function, but the evidence is not conclusive. Disruption in thyroid hormones can affect metabolism, energy levels, and overall health.
- Appetite and Metabolism: Marijuana is known to increase appetite (the “munchies”), which is partly due to its effect on hormones like ghrelin and leptin that regulate hunger and satiety.
It’s important to approach these findings with an understanding that research in this area is evolving. The relationship between marijuana and hormones is complex, influenced by factors like dosage, frequency of use, individual physiology, and the presence of other health conditions. Consulting healthcare professionals is advisable for anyone concerned about the hormonal effects of marijuana use.
The negative physiological effects of marijuana are varied and can depend on factors like individual health, the frequency of use, and the method of consumption. Here are some key impacts:
- Respiratory Issues: Smoking marijuana can irritate the lungs, leading to issues similar to those experienced by tobacco smokers, such as chronic cough, phlegm production, and an increased risk of lung infections. It may also exacerbate conditions like asthma and bronchitis.
- Cardiovascular Effects: Marijuana use can increase heart rate for up to 3 hours after smoking. This could increase the risk of heart attack, particularly in older individuals or those with pre-existing heart conditions.
- Mental Health: Marijuana can exacerbate or contribute to the development of mental health issues in some people, such as anxiety, depression, or schizophrenia, particularly in those predisposed to these conditions.
- Cognitive Impairment: Short-term use can impact memory, coordination, and judgment. These effects can be particularly concerning for activities like driving. Long-term or heavy use, especially if started at a young age, might have lasting effects on cognitive abilities.
- Dependency and Withdrawal: While not as addictive as some substances, regular users can develop a dependence on marijuana. Withdrawal symptoms might include irritability, mood and sleep difficulties, decreased appetite, cravings, restlessness, and various forms of physical discomfort.
- Impact on Adolescents: For younger users, marijuana can have more pronounced long-term effects on brain development, potentially impacting cognitive and educational outcomes.
- Hormonal and Reproductive Effects: There is some evidence to suggest that marijuana can affect hormone levels and might impact reproductive health, but more research is needed in this area.
It’s important to remember that responses to marijuana can vary greatly between individuals, and the legal status and medical usage of marijuana differ widely between regions, often reflecting ongoing research and changing societal attitudes.