Research published in Diabetes Care shows that more adults with diabetes are using cannabis. Does this pose a problem in terms of diabetes management?
The use of cannabis (more commonly referred to as marijuana) has grown in recent years as the recreational use of marijuana has become de-stigmatized and, quite frankly, mainstream in much of the country.
As of 2024, there are 24 states across the nation that have already legalized the recreational use of marijuana, which makes it readily available under the law in nearly half of the country. The fact is the majority of the American population lives in a legal marijuana state.
The health benefits of cannabis are widely debated, and there is a lack of concrete evidence determining the pros and cons as more research continues to be done on the subject. However, proponents of cannabis point to research and user claims that indicate the substance can be beneficial for pain relief, treating insomnia, reducing stress and anxiety, to aid in relieving nausea due to cancer treatments, helping with migraine headaches, and helping relieve the symptoms of other conditions including epilepsy, Alzheimer’s disease and ALS (amyotrophic lateral sclerosis).
The reality is cannabis very likely presents some significant wellness benefits beyond the recreational high many users seek. But for those living with diabetes who are trying to manage the metabolic disorder, is cannabis a wise decision?
Cannabis Use Rises Among Adults With Diabetes
According to a recent study published by the American Diabetes Association (ADA) in the journal Diabetes Care, more and more people with diabetes are turning to marijuana. The study, which included 6,816 participants, reveals that while the use of cannabis by people with diabetes as a percentage of that specific population falls below estimated figures for the general populace, it is clear that the use of marijuana is on the rise in the diabetes community.
The study goes so far as to say that cannabis use among adults with diabetes has increased sharply from previous estimates, with about 9% of diabetic adults in the United States having used cannabis within the past month. Nearly half of these users were under the age of 50. The study qualified the use of cannabis products as those that are smoked, vaped, consumed orally, or applied via a lotion. Standard hemp and CBD products were excluded from the research.
The growing use of cannabis among people with diabetes presents some concerns, as little is known about how the drug might impact blood glucose control and diabetes management.
Is Cannabis Dangerous For People With Diabetes?
The honest answer is that the jury is still out on this one. Little is understood about the impacts, negative or positive, that cannabis might have on metabolic disorders like diabetes. However, there is speculation that cannabis use may increase the risk of ketoacidosis and contribute to an increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease in some patients.
Beyond the unknown physical response to cannabis, a secondary concern is the sought-after high that most recreational marijuana users seek. Could cannabis use lead to impaired judgment that might hurt proper diabetes management or lead to poor decision-making in terms of dietary and lifestyle approaches to blood sugar control?
The authors of the study were quick to point out, “The increased use of cannabis in the U.S. for managing health-related symptoms has led to its increased use among individuals with chronic diseases, including millions of people with diabetes. However, due to the difficulties of conducting studies with cannabis, including the number of cannabinoids and various routes of administration, as well as federal restrictions, there is limited research on its effects on glucose metabolism, lipid profiles, and cardiovascular risk for people with diabetes.”
A Wake-Up Call To Healthcare Providers
While the positives and negatives of cannabis use will continue to be debated, what is undeniable is that more and more people with diabetes are using the substance. What is also indisputable is that how marijuana might impact blood sugar control and metabolic health for those with both Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes is yet unknown – and this is enough to make cannabis a concern.
According to the study’s authors, this new data is a call out to healthcare providers to discuss the potential harms and risks cannabis openly might present to their diabetic patients.
“Clinicians must discuss with their patients the potential harms of cannabis use on diabetes-related outcomes without a clear understanding of its benefits. Further screening for and education about the potential risks of its use must be done with all patients with diabetes and discussed in the context of managing and monitoring their diabetes.”
FAQs on Diabetes and Cannabis
Does cannabis have health benefits?
A lot more research needs to be done to confirm the health benefits and consequences of cannabis use. Studies have shown that cannabis may be able to aid with certain conditions, such as anxiety, stress, pain management, and sleep disorders. Little is known regarding the potential impact cannabis use may have on people living with diabetes.
Is cannabis legal?
As of 2024, cannabis was legal for recreational use in 24 states in the United States; among them are California, Colorado, Maryland, New York, Oregon, and Vermont. There are also a total of 38 states that permit marijuana for medical use with a physician’s prescription.
Is cannabis the same as marijuana?
Yes and no. Cannabis is the name of the plant. Marijuana (or weed) refers to various products that are made from the plant and contain its natural substance, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which is what provides the high or sense of euphoria associated with marijuana. However, in most cases, the terms are used interchangeably.
Are you a patient or healthcare provider with additional insights about cannabis use that might be helpful for our readers? Please share them in the comment section below. Thanks, and stay diabetes healthy!
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