GRATITUDE
From the Editor
4 5
Dear Family and Friends,
This year is flying by! We're already on our third issue of the quarter and we could not have made it here without your continued support! It does not go unnoticed. Thank you! This quarter issue focuses on Cannabis and human behavior.
Human behavior includes activities that influence mood and cognition such as listening to music, watching movies, conversation, and dining out. It’s a known fact that the human brain naturally produces and uses cannabinoids (chemical compounds of Cannabis), referred to as endocannabinoids. However, the controversy stems from when nonendogenous (outside the human body) are introduced, they may influence behavior by “affecting” brain function.
In 2017, the journal Addiction published an article that presented a study examining the brains of more than 1,000 participants of different genders and varying ages confirming that long-term alcohol use is much more damaging to the brain than Cannabis. Further stating that alcohol use was significantly associated with a decrease in gray matter size and white matter integrity, particularly for adults who may have decades of exposure. Cannabis and cannabinoid-like products were not shown to have any long-term impact on the amount of gray matter in the brain or on the integrity of the white matter.
Cannabinoids interact with the nervous system and are expressed through existing receptors. In the central nervous system, these receptors play a significant role in controlling behaviors and brain functions. Data suggest that cannabinoid receptors play a more direct role in brain functions such as pain modulation, motor activity, reduced rapid eye-movement sleep, as well as mood, motivation, and higher cognitive processes. Many of which are discussed in varying capacities in articles and a compelling patient empowerment story in this issue.
Therefore, the question remains, when describing
"affecting" behavior let's compare apples to apples.
Both alcohol and Cannabis are nonendogenous
substances yet alcohol is legal and more harmful.
Change begins with knowledge but now that we're
beyond that, it's action time.
Wishing you Peace, Health and Prosperity,
Brittany Whiters RN, MSN
Co-Founder & CEO