This post is presented by our media partner Cannabis News Wire
View the original article here.
A recent study published in the Cannabis Research Journal challenges the outdated stereotype that cannabis users, often labeled as “lazy stoners,” are less active. The research shows that medical cannabis promotes increased physical activity in individuals with chronic health issues, while recreational marijuana boosts physical activity even more, particularly in those without chronic conditions.
The study examined data from adults aged 18 and over across the United States between 2016 and 2022. The researchers analyzed information collected by the CDC’s Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System, which conducts nationwide phone surveys focused on health-related behaviors, preventive health services, and chronic illnesses.
One of the key findings was that people who reported using cannabis were more physically active than those who didn’t, but this difference was most pronounced in areas where cannabis is legally available, either for medical or recreational use. The study did not find a strong link between medical marijuana use and increased physical activity. However, physical activity was a more common reason for recreational use.
The authors suggest that when people use cannabis to enhance physical activity, it might be because it helps them focus, boosts enjoyment, or strengthens the connection between the mind, body, and spirit. Cannabis may also aid in rehabilitation by enhancing sleep and lowering discomfort.
Although medical cannabis users did not list physical activity as a primary reason for use, the researchers proposed that cannabis might indirectly help those with chronic illnesses stay more active by alleviating some of their symptoms.
Paul Armentano, Deputy Director of NORML, commented on the study, highlighting how it goes against long-standing assumptions about cannabis users. He noted that the results challenge the false stereotype that marijuana consumers are unmotivated or lazy. He also expressed disappointment that these misconceptions have often shaped public health messages and have contributed to stigmatizing responsible marijuana use.
The study’s conclusions align with some previous research on the relationship between physical activity and cannabis use. For instance, a similar study conducted in Canada this year found that adults aged 18 to 50 who used cannabis were neither more inactive nor more intensely active than non-users.
However, the research did note a slight increase in light physical activity following marijuana use. The authors of that study argued that their findings contradicted concerns that marijuana use promotes a sedentary lifestyle. They emphasized that the traditional “lazy stoner” image fails to account for the many ways people use marijuana today.
According to another study published in February, people who use cannabis walk more often than non-users or e-cigarette users. The same study also discovered that cannabis users had the same likelihood of engaging in fundamental physical activities like strength training as non-users did.
Additionally, 2019 research suggested that people who use marijuana before or after exercise experience better workouts and recover more effectively. Overall, the growing body of research challenges traditional assumptions about marijuana users, showing that many incorporate it into an active and health-conscious lifestyle.
The entire cannabis industry, including leading companies like Tilray Brands Inc. (NASDAQ: TLRY) (TSX: TLRY), may be pleased that yet another misconception about marijuana use has fallen apart in the face of rigorous studies conducted to understand the true effects of the substance.
About CNW420
CNW420 spotlights the latest developments in the rapidly evolving cannabis industry through the release of an article each business day at 4:20 p.m. Eastern – a tribute to the time synonymous with cannabis culture. The concise, informative content serves as a gateway for investors interested in the legalized cannabis sector and provides updates on how regulatory developments may impact financial markets. If marijuana and the burgeoning industry surrounding it are on your radar, CNW420 is for you! Check back daily to stay up-to-date on the latest milestones in the fast -changing world of cannabis.
To receive SMS alerts from CNW, text CANNABIS to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)
For more information, please visit https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com
Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the CannabisNewsWire website applicable to all content provided by CNW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.CannabisNewsWire.com/Disclaimer
CannabisNewsWire
Denver, CO
www.CannabisNewsWire.com
303.498.7722 Office
Editor@CannabisNewsWire.com
CannabisNewsWire is powered by IBN
This post was originally published by our media partner here.
