Study challenges negative cannabis stereotypes, claiming link to brain benefits

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While cannabis has recently come under fire for potential negativehealth risks, a recent study suggests that its use could increase brain volume and cognitive fitness.

Researchers at the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus analyzed cannabis usage,brain scansand cognitive test results for more than 26,000 adults between the ages of 40 and 77, using data from the UK biobank.

The study found that cannabis users — particularly those who reported moderate lifetime usage — showed larger volumes in several brain regions.

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“Compared to individuals with no history of cannabis use, those who reported using cannabis showed larger volumes in several brain regions characterized by a high density of cannabinoid (CB1) receptors — regions involved in processes such as memory, information processing andemotion regulation,�

A recent study suggests that cannabis use could increase brain volume and cognitive fitness.(iStock)

The cannabis users also scored better on cognitive tests that measured learning, processing speed and executive function.

This outcome differs from many previous studies, which have focused on short-term cognitive impairment during or shortly aftercannabis use, the researcher pointed out.

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“These findings suggest that the relationship between cannabis and the brain may differ across the lifespan, and that moderate use in mid-to-later adulthood may be associated with positivebrain healthoutcomes,” Guha said.

Not all areas of the brain showed positive effects among cannabis users.The posterior cingulate, which is involved in self-reflection and memory, had lower volume with higher marijuana use.

“The takeaway is not that people should start using more cannabis based on these findings alone.”

As cannabis has been rising in popularity among all ages, this type of study is important for understanding its long-term effects and the pros and cons of use, according toMatt Glowiak, PhD, chief addiction specialist with Recovered, an organization that provides information and resources for mental health and addiction treatment.

The drug’s effects likely depend on factors such as age, dose, frequency, product composition and individual vulnerability.(AP Photo/Martin Meissner, File)

“Given the connection between cannabis use and larger brain volume, it is believed that it may help [older] individuals retain cognitive function that might otherwise naturally decline,�

“This is a huge benefit, but one we need to explore a bit further, ahead of encouraging those who would otherwise not consider integrating cannabis into theirhealthcare regimen.”

Limitations and caveats

As the study was observational in nature, it could not prove that cannabis use improves brain health — instead, it only showed an association, according to Dr.

“The preponderance of previous evidence does not line up with improved cognitive function from chronic cannabis use,�“This study is an outlier, and though it cannot be ignored, it is not justification for use.”

used cannabis, such as whether they smoked or used edibles, the type or potency of cannabis, or when in their life they used most heavily.”

Cannabis users scored better in learning, processing speed and executive function. (iStock)

“Those details likely matter a great deal for understanding how cannabis affects the aging brain.”

Given these limitations, Guha suggests that the findings should be seen as an early indicator that cannabis use may be related tobrain aging, “and as a starting point for more targeted research that can tease apart these relationships.”

Marijuana is weighed and packaged for sale at the Northwest Patient Resource Center medical marijuana dispensary, Wednesday, Oct. 10, 2012, in Seattle. Washington state is on the verge of becoming the first in the nation to let adults over 21 buy taxed, inspected marijuana at state-licensed shops. Supporters of Initiative 502 say allowing recreational pot sales could make drug laws a little more reasonable, prevent thousands of arrests a year, and bring Washington hundreds of millions of dollars to help pay for schools, health care and basic government services. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)

“Given the widespread use and legalization of cannabis, it would be great to know that it is net-positive for brain health — however, this feels too good to be true, and too early to claim,” one expert said.(AP)

“As with any substance, individuals should consult with a healthcare provider before initiating use, particularly if they have a history of mental health concerns, as THC (the primary psychoactive component of cannabis) can exacerbate symptoms such aspsychosis in vulnerable individuals,” she added.

Alex Dimitriu, MD, who is double board-certified in psychiatry and sleep medicine and the founder ofMenlo Park Psychiatry &Sleep Medicine, reiterated that this study is an “outlier,” as most previous research has shown “detrimental effects” from cannabis use.

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Dimitriu agreed thatmore large-scale studiesand review papers are needed to get a “clearer picture.”

“What this cannabis study shows is that there may be conflicting information, which warrants more investigation.”

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