Cannabis may treat or prevent type II diabetes

Sechat Editorial

Unlike type 1 diabetes, where the body does not produce enough insulin, type 2 diabetes is often associated with high levels of blood glucose (hyperglycemia) and is by far the most common type of diabetes, with 90% of cases diagnosed as type 2. Specific cannabinoids in the cannabis plant can reduce inflammation and decrease insulin and leptin resistance.

Research indicates that marijuana use can lead to better outcomes for people with diabetes. Medical cannabis can benefit diabetic patients in various ways, starting with reducing neuropathic pain (nerve), a concerning and common symptom of diabetes.

Brazil ranks 5th in diabetes incidence worldwide, with 16.8 million adult patients (20 to 79 years old), trailing only China, India, the United States, and Pakistan. The estimated incidence of the disease in 2030 will reach 21.5 million.

In 2016, diabetes killed 1.6 million people worldwide and another 2.2 million deaths in 2012 were attributed to hyperglycemia. Unfortunately, the diabetes mortality rate is rising, with a 14% increase between 2019 and 2020.

The cannabinoids CBD, CBDA, THC, THCV, and THCA can benefit neuropathic pain. CBD also helps form a protective layer around nerves, preventing inflammation and insulin resistance.

Partial or total loss of vision due to diabetic retinopathy is another complication of diabetes. CBD, in particular, has been shown to bind to cannabinoid receptors in the brain and reduce the risk of developing retinopathy.

Cannabis can serve as an additional treatment option for some people with diabetes. However, cannabis should not be the primary choice and can only benefit people with diabetes indirectly. Some people with diabetes (especially those taking prescribed medications or have heart conditions) may benefit more from other treatment options.