Ep 263 The Truth about Marijuana and Brain Health ft. Dr. Boz - Annette Bosworth [PART 2]
Dec 17, 2022
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In this engaging discussion, Dr. Annette Bosworth, known as Dr. Boz, dives into the profound impacts of marijuana and THC on brain health. She highlights the alarming increase in THC levels in today’s marijuana compared to the past. The conversation reveals how these substances interact with brain chemistry, particularly in adolescents. Dr. Boz also addresses the safety of CBD products and the long-term effects of chronic marijuana use, emphasizing the brain's potential for healing post-abuse and the importance of understanding the science behind these substances.
Chronic marijuana use significantly affects brain health, particularly in adolescents, leading to cognitive deficits and impaired development.
The potency of modern marijuana, with THC levels now reaching up to 99%, presents new risks compared to past products of the 1970s.
Concerns about CBD safety persist, as many products may contain traces of THC despite claims of being entirely psychoactive-free.
Deep dives
Risks of Chronic Marijuana Use
Chronic marijuana use can lead to significant adverse effects on brain health and development. Substances like THC can interfere with dopamine and noradrenaline production, leading to chronic inflammation and brain injury. Many individuals who seek help for cognitive issues often struggle to let go of marijuana, despite being informed that their long-term use may result in a 'crappy life' for a few months during the recovery phase. The emotional attachment to the substance complicates recovery, highlighting the need for understanding its detrimental effects.
Impact on Brain Development in Adolescents
Consistent marijuana use during the adolescent years can blunt brain development, particularly in crucial areas like the hippocampus and thalamus. Studies indicate that teenagers who regularly use marijuana may never achieve their peak brain maturation and risk facing cognitive deficits by the age of 26. Parents may mistakenly believe that marijuana improves their children's academic performance, but this harm may only become apparent after long-term exposure. Limiting exposure to such substances during formative years is critical to ensuring proper brain development.
Variability in THC Concentrations
The potency of marijuana has drastically increased over the decades, with THC concentrations growing from under 1% in the 1970s to as high as 99% in today's products. This marked increase in potency can lead to greater risks and complications for users, especially those with developing brains. Comparisons to alcohol, such as highlighting the differences in strength between a mild beer and high-proof substances, illustrate the potential dangers of current marijuana products. The historical context of marijuana's potency emphasizes the importance of understanding the health implications linked to its modern use.
The Questionable Nature of CBD Products
CBD products have surged in popularity, often marketed as safe and beneficial without psychoactive effects. However, significant concerns regarding quality control persist, as many CBD items may still contain trace amounts of THC, posing risks, especially to children. Lab tests of CBD samples have indicated that the vast majority often contain THC, undermining the claim of being entirely safe. Understanding the credibility of CBD products and the importance of rigorous testing is crucial for consumers, particularly parents considering CBD for their children.
Educational Approaches to Substance Use
Addressing the misconceptions surrounding marijuana use requires clear and factual education for both parents and children. Parents are encouraged to convey the risks of marijuana in an approachable manner, making science-backed discussions accessible. By doing so, children can feel empowered to make informed choices regarding substance use, understanding the long-term impacts on their cognitive development. Creating a firm knowledge foundation may prevent premature substance use and promote healthier decision-making during adolescence.
Continuing the burning hot conversation with Internal medicine physician Dr. Annette Bosworth aka Dr. Boz… about how marijuana and THC affect the brain.
In part 2, discover how THC levels have literally skyrocketed in the marijuana grown today compared to Woodstock weed 50 years ago. And are CBD oil or gummies safe and truly THC free?
Learn more about what is happening chemically inside your brain, at your neuronal receptor sites, when you use marijuana or anything containing THC. What does a brain look like after chronic marijuana abuse and how can it heal after quitting marijuana?
Get past the noise out there spoken by ignorant marijuana users who claim to know it all and listen to an expert who knows what the science says and can speak the truth about marijuana and your brain.
“The cause of marijuana and its chronic swelling is a different set of mechanics but very measurable… Especially if it was a tag marijuana, it stays on their brain for 3 months but then it’s 6 months after that the swelling must stay out of their brain for things to start growing again.” -- Dr. Boz - Annette Bosworth
Time Stamps
01:06 – Welcome to the 'Strong By Design' podcast
01:30 – Dr. Boz dives deep into how marijuana damages a teenager’s brain
06:22 – Discover how marijuana has changed over time
11:48 – Are CBD oil and gummies safe?
17:17 – What does a brain look like after chronic marijuana abuse and how it repairs / how it fails to repair quitting marijuana?
20:45 – Functional MRI (fMRI): A look inside the human brain in real-time
25:48 – Discover how marijuana and THC affect the brai