How can marijuana prevent type 2 diabetes?
Type 2 diabetes is often preventable. Along with lifestyle changes, cannabis can be an effective preventative measure because it can help control blood sugar. Those who use marijuana are less likely to be obese and have a lower BMI (body mass index), both of which are helpful in preventing type 2 diabetes. Using marijuana can also increase levels of good cholesterol, another fact in diabetes prevention. In the case of type 1 diabetes, research has shown that CBD can delay the onset of the disease and can even reduce the occurrence of it.
How can marijuana treat diabetes?
Once an individual has developed either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, many different symptoms and complications can occur. Cannabis can be very effective in treating many of these conditions. The first is eye disease. Those with diabetes often have higher fluid pressure in the eye which can lead to glaucoma and diabetic retinopathy. Cannabis is known for lowering this pressure and thus preserving eye health.
Diabetes is also known for causing inflammation in the arteries and nerves. Cannabis has known anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective effects that can reduce the pain of neuropathy and sometimes even prevent further nerve damage. Improved circulation and lower blood pressure are also benefit of using cannabis for diabetes sufferers. Poor circulation can lead to damage in the extremities and high blood pressure is one of the leading causes of strokes and heart attacks.
Diabetic restless leg syndrome is another common complaint for those with both type 1 and type 2 diabetes. Smoking or vaping cannabis while sleeping can reduce the symptoms of RLS and help those with diabetes sleep better. Better sleep is also associated with reduced blood pressure and stress.
For those who have developed type 2 diabetes, using cannabis can have an even more profound effect. By using strains that are high in CBD, sufferers can reduce the amount of insulin or other medications needed, can reduce their insulin resistance, and fix the endocannabinoid imbalance that is present in many who develop diabetes because of their inability to lose weight.
Best ways to use marijuana for diabetes
Those who have risk factors for diabetes such as relatives who have developed the disease, are obese, or have high blood sugar, using strains of marijuana that are high in CBD can be an effective preventative treatment. As noted previously, cannabis can help treat stress and enable restful sleep, both of which lead to lower BMIs and lower blood pressure.
For those who have already developed either type 1 or type 2 diabetes, using cannabis in a variety of ways depending on symptoms can be very helpful. For those who have trouble sleeping or have RLS, vaping strains high in CBD can help alleviate symptoms and increase restful sleep. Smoking, ingesting, or vaping high-CBD strains during the daytime can help treat neuropathy, increase circulation, and lower eye pressure. Long-term use of cannabis can also lead to overall lower blood sugar levels.
