By Sarah MacLeod, from Holdfast Healing
Approaching diabetes management looks a little different for each individual. Depending on the type of diabetes someone has, they may be taking insulin (either with an insulin pump or daily injections) and/or using other diabetes medications (biguanides, SGLT-2 inhibitors, etc.) in combination with positive lifestyle choices like healthy eating and regular exercise.
But did you know that cannabis can be a useful addition to the diabetes care management toolbox? Although research is still limited due to the history of cannabis prohibition, emerging evidence from various studies (and countless patient testimonies) suggest that cannabis may be a great therapeutic option for those living with diabetes.
Much like diabetes, cannabis is all about finding balance or homeostasis. Many of the ways we can naturally boost our endocannabinoid system mirror other proper diabetes management techniques. This includes mindful movement/intentional exercise and eating foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids (like chia seeds, hemp seeds, flax seeds, eggs, sardines, cacao nibs, and more).
In 2014, the Natural Medicine Journal published a “summary of epidemiological evidence on marijuana in the management of diabetes” concluding that in thousands of subjects, “past and current cannabis use was associated with lower levels of fasting insulin, blood glucose, insulin resistance, BMI and waist circumference”.
Acting as a vasodilator, cannabis opens our blood vessels and improves circulation and the flow of blood within the body. It can help to lower blood pressure which is so important for people living with diabetes. Cannabis can also play a role in the reduction of arterial inflammation which is commonly found in those living with diabetes.
Reducing stress and anxiety is another important component of diabetes management. Cannabis in its various forms can help patients to relax and oftentimes can ease the inflammation and pain that is causing the distress in the first place. If there is less pain and inflammation within the body, there is also an opportunity for more movement, better sleep, and improved happiness which usually leads to better blood sugars overall and more positive health outcomes.
Studies have also shown that cannabidiol (CBD), one of the 100+ compounds found within the cannabis plant, reduces retinal oxidative stress and could be beneficial for those who have been diagnosed with diabetic retinopathy. The neuroprotective qualities of cannabis can also help to reduce the pain of diabetic neuropathy as receptors in the brain and body are activated and inflammation is lowered. The antispasmodic effects of cannabis can help relieve painful muscle cramps and ease the symptoms of GI disorders like gastroparesis (delayed gastric emptying).
As with all patients, those living with diabetes should educate and empower themselves about the many benefits of cannabis and the various options for therapeutic treatment. It is important to remain aware of how the compounds found within cannabis interact with your body and how they impact your blood sugar. We are all unique bio individuals and it is up to each and every one of us to find what works best for our needs. Cannabis is a choice that allows many people to have a better quality of life and more control over their chronic illness, pain, and diabetes-related complications.
About Sarah
Sarah MacLeod is a holistic health coach and yoga teacher who has lived with type 1 diabetes since 2005. She feels passionate about empowering those who live with diabetes and diabetes-related complications, helping others to explore their own journey towards holistic health and their highest self. Sarah is the founder of Grace & Growth, a platform which places an emphasis on spiritual wellness and mental health for women living with diabetes. A graduate of the Institute for Integrative Nutrition, Sarah is an integrative cannabis coach who works 1:1 with clients through her wellness business Holdfast Healing. You can find her on Instagram @plutonianpancreas & @holdfasthealing
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*Remember to talk to your primary care physician about your medical health and connect with a certifying cannabis physician or nurse practitioner, here, to learn how medical cannabis may beneficial for you.