Regular marijuana use is associated with factors enhancing diabetic control. Current marijuana users had significantly lower fasting insulin and were less likely to be insulin resistant. Their findings are reported in the current issue of American Journal of Medicine.

In general, there has been a lower prevalence of obesity and diabetes in marijuana users compared with people who have never used marijuana. This may suggest a link between cannabinoids and peripheral metabolic processes. There have been few clinical studies supporting this hypothesis.

The study measured all participants for glucose metabolism, insulin signaling, and insulin resistance. The study evaluated 4,600 people with self-reported marijuana use.

All participants had fasting blood glucose, insulin sensitivity, and insulin resistance measured. About 15% were current marijuana users, 40% were past users.

Current marijuana use was associated with 16% lower fasting insulin levels and 17% lower insulin resistance. Significant associations between marijuana use and smaller waist circumferences were noted. Among current users, no significant dose-response was observed.

As it stands, 18 states in the US have legalized medical marijuana. According to this study, it would be interesting to know how much marijuana it takes to revamp the metabolic benefit without the mind-altering side effects. How long do the metabolic benefits last? And finally, how is it consumed?

Food for thought. Or is it?

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