Regular Cannabis Use Elevates Stress Hormone Levels
Research shows cannabis users wake up with higher cortisol levels in the morning.
1Cannabis and Stress Relationship
A study from Oregon State University found that regular cannabis users wake up with higher cortisol levels. This finding suggests a possible link between cannabis use and the body's daily stress rhythm. Researchers note that while cannabis may temporarily relieve stress, long-term use could disrupt biological systems regulating stress response.
2Cannabis Use Among Young Adults
Cannabis use has significantly increased among young adults in the U.S. over the past 15 years. 29% of adults aged 19-30 reported using cannabis in the last 30 days, nearly double the rate from 15 years ago. More than 10% of this age group reported using cannabis at least 20 times in a 30-day period.
3Cortisol and Stress Response
Cortisol, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, helps the body cope with stress. However, prolonged high levels can increase risks of anxiety, depression, and heart disease. Researchers found that cannabis users had higher circulating cortisol levels upon waking, indicating potential negative effects on the stress system.
4Morning Cortisol Surge
Researchers measured the cortisol awakening response (CAR) to compare cannabis users and non-users. CAR is calculated by measuring cortisol immediately after waking and 30 minutes later. While the morning cortisol increase was similar in both groups, cannabis users started with higher baseline cortisol levels.
5Biological Marker of Problematic Use
Researchers suggest that cortisol levels upon waking may serve as a neurobiological marker of problematic cannabis use. However, more long-term studies are needed to confirm this link. Previous studies found blunted CAR in frequent cannabis users, but this study did not replicate that finding.
6Disruptions in Stress Rhythms
The research indicates that regular cannabis users may experience disruptions in their normal daily stress rhythms. Such changes could contribute to a feedback cycle where a poorly regulated stress system encourages further cannabis use. This highlights the need for more research on the long-term effects of cannabis use.
7Importance of the Study
This study provides an important starting point for understanding the relationship between cannabis use and the body's stress response. Researchers believe the findings could guide future studies to better understand the biological effects of cannabis use. Such research could help us better comprehend the health impacts of cannabis.
8Conclusion and Future Research
The Oregon State University study shows that regular cannabis use may elevate morning cortisol levels. This finding underscores the need for further research to understand how cannabis use affects the stress system. Future studies could help us better understand the long-term health effects of cannabis use.