Is Smoking Weed Bad for Your Heart?

Introduction

Smoking weed is often perceived as a natural and harmless activity, with some even touting its potential health benefits. However, recent findings suggest a significant connection between marijuana use and cardiovascular risks, challenging the notion that weed is entirely benign. 

In this post, we will explore the impact of smoking weed on the heart, shedding light on the potential dangers associated with this popular recreational activity.

Can Marijuana Use Affect The Heart Positively?

Despite claims suggesting that marijuana can lower blood pressure and reverse heart disease, credible evidence supporting these assertions remains elusive. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration's review of millions of tweets revealed that up to 31% of them mentioned unfounded health claims related to weed. The Federal Trade Commission has also taken action against companies making unsupported claims about the cardiovascular benefits of weed products.

Related: Smoking Weed With Asthma: Risks, Benefits, Alternatives

Negative Effects of Marijuana (Weed) on the Heart

The immediate impact of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in weed, on the cardiovascular system is a notable concern. THC causes a rapid increase in heart rate, leading to elevated blood pressure. Prolonged use of weed may result in unsafe alterations in the heart, increasing the risk of stroke and heart disease.

In addition to THC, burning weed releases a variety of harmful chemicals, including acetaldehyde, ammonia, benzene, carbon monoxide, hydrogen cyanide, and polycyclic hydrocarbons. The long-term effects of exposure to these chemicals are yet to be fully understood, making it crucial to consider potential risks.

Read Also: Can You Smoke Weed Stems? 4 Alternative Uses for Cannabis Stems

Weed Adulterations and Cardiovascular Abnormalities

Scientists have identified dangerous additives in weed, stemming from alterations made to the plant. These include plant fertilizers containing N-nitrosamines, sulfur, copper sulfate, arsenic, insecticides, fungicides, and various toxins. Black market dealers may further compromise the safety of weed by adding toxins like paraquat, opium, and LSD, amplifying cardiovascular risks.

Negative Effects of Weed Smoke on the Heart

While distinguishing natural heart-altering chemicals in weed from those in the smoke poses challenges, research suggests that some harmful chemicals found in tobacco are also present in weed smoke. Fungi, such as Aspergillus fumigatus, naturally found in soils, can attach themselves to weed, causing adverse cardiovascular effects.

The Connection Between Smoking Weed and Heart Disease

Older individuals turning to weed for alleged pain relief may be misled, as weed itself does not possess pain-relieving qualities. The presence of THC in weed has been linked to inflammation in endothelial cells, increasing the likelihood of heart attacks, heart failure, and arrhythmias. Frequent marijuana smokers face a higher risk of heart-related issues before the age of 50.

Related: CBD vs. THC: How Do They Differ?

Weed’s Long-Term Cardiovascular Effects

The popularity of weed has surged with its legalization in various states, but the long-term cardiovascular effects remain uncertain. Street dealers, taking advantage of relaxed laws, may add undetectable chemicals to make weed more addictive. This transformation has turned a once seemingly safe drug into a potential trigger for various cardiovascular events.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while some tout the benefits of weed, particularly its potential positive effects on heart health through CBD, the negative cardiovascular consequences of smoking weed cannot be ignored. The various compounds present in weed, coupled with potential adulterations, contribute to an increased risk of cardiovascular events. The future prognosis of these effects remains uncertain due to the lack of conclusive long-term research. To protect heart health, individuals are encouraged to prioritize a healthy lifestyle and consider discontinuing marijuana use.

FAQs

• Is smoking weed safer than tobacco for the heart?

  While research indicates that some harmful chemicals found in tobacco are also present in weed smoke, the long-term effects and specific risks to the heart are not yet fully understood. Both substances pose potential cardiovascular risks, and it is advisable to prioritize overall heart health by avoiding smoking altogether.

• Can CBD from weed positively impact heart health?

  While cannabidiol (CBD) isolated from weed has been researched for various potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties, there is no conclusive evidence supporting claims that it positively impacts heart health. It is crucial to distinguish between CBD and the psychoactive compound THC, which has been linked to inflammation in endothelial cells and an increased risk of heart-related issues.

• Are there safe ways to use weed without affecting the heart negatively?

  The safest way to use weed without negatively impacting the heart is through methods that do not involve smoking. Edibles and CBD oil are alternatives that bypass the harmful effects of smoke on the cardiovascular system. However, it is essential to be cautious of the dosage and ensure that the products are obtained from reputable sources, as the overall long-term effects of weed use are still being researched.