New Study Finds Link Between Marijuana Use and Reduced Risk of Type 2 Diabetes
A new meta-analysis of scientific studies conducted by researchers at the Tabriz University of Medical Sciences in Iran suggests that people who use marijuana are about half as likely to develop type 2 diabetes. The study, published in the journal Phytotherapy Research, adds to the body of scientific literature exploring the effects of cannabis on glucose regulation and insulin secretion related to the chronic disease.
To explore this relationship further, the researchers analyzed 11 relevant surveys and four epidemiological cohort studies that were published in scientific databases such as PubMed up through July 1, 2022. The findings revealed that individuals who consume marijuana had a significantly lower incidence of type 2 diabetes compared to those without cannabis exposure.
The paper states, “A protective effect of cannabis consumption on the odds of diabetes mellitus type 2 development has been suggested.” However, the researchers note that due to heterogeneity in the studies, further research should be conducted with higher levels of evidence, especially considering the increasing trend of cannabis consumption and legalization.
Previous studies have also indicated a link between marijuana use and reduced rates of type 2 diabetes, which is characterized by low insulin production and insulin resistance. The mechanism behind this effect is not yet fully understood, but it is known that compounds in marijuana interact with receptors in the endocannabinoid system, which regulates various bodily functions, including insulin secretion.
The new study emphasizes that cannabis consumption influences metabolism through different pathways, including glucose regulation and insulin secretion. While some studies have shown no correlation between marijuana use and the likelihood of developing type 2 diabetes, a 2012 study found that cannabis consumption was associated with a 58 percent reduction in the risk of developing the disease.
Interestingly, separate research published in the International Journal of Drug Policy revealed that states that have legalized medical cannabis have experienced significant reductions in health insurance premiums compared to states where cannabis remains illegal. Additionally, studies have also shown that adult-use marijuana legalization is associated with decreased levels of obesity, despite the notion that cannabis is known to stimulate appetite. In fact, a 2018 study concluded that the average marijuana consumer actually has a slimmer waistline compared to non-users.
In another stereotype-busting finding, a study published in 2021 demonstrated that frequent marijuana consumers are more likely to be physically active compared to non-users.
This new study adds to the growing body of evidence suggesting potential health benefits associated with cannabis use. However, researchers emphasize the need for further investigation to fully understand the mechanisms and establish stronger evidence regarding the relationship between marijuana use and type 2 diabetes.