Marijuana smoked or eaten linked to blood vessel harm
A new study published by JAMA Cardiology (Association of Endothelial Dysfunction With Chronic Marijuana Smoking and THC-Edible Use) found “chronic cannabis smoking and THC ingestion were associated with endothelial dysfunction similar to that observed in tobacco smokers …”.
Endothelial dysfunction is a type of coronary artery disease that causes angina or chest pain. It is characterized by impaired functioning of the lining of the blood vessels. Low levels of nitric oxide gas in blood vessel walls cause endothelial dysfunction, which narrows your arteries and increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, and high blood pressure. Endothelial dysfunction is a well-established precursor to major cardiovascular events. More about Endothelial Dysfunction from the Cleveland Clinic.
The researchers found Cannabis use “blunted nitric oxide production“. Nitric oxide is a compound that helps blood vessels stay healthy. Nitric oxide relaxes blood vessels, improving blood flow and supplying oxygen to tissues. Nitric oxide also plays a role in cell metabolism and acts as chemical messenger in the body, sending signals important for many bodily functions. A drop in nitric oxide increases platelet production will can cause blood clots.
Marijuana use is often portrayed and perceived as benign or beneficial, but that is not the case!
The researchers found that cannabis users showed significantly worse vascular function than nonusers.
See High Cannabis Use Increases Colon Cancer Risk!.
See Cannabis and Brain Function Study Finds Impact on Working Memory.
See Early Cannabis Use Linked to Schizophrenia Symptoms
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