Science continues to prove cannabis has medical benefits…and more people are acknowledging the value of the plant

As the debate about marijuana being rescheduled continues, science continues to prove cannabis has medical benefits. While more research needs to be done in a variety of areas, medical organizations are coming around to the data regarding the plant’s help in medical conditions. And now science give marijuana users some good heart news.

Heart disease is the leading cause of death of women, men, and people of most racial and ethnic groups. Known as the silent killer, it can strike without advance notice, killing over 600,000 in the US and Canada alone. But science has come a long way in matter of open heart surgery and other key elements around heart health.

Despite the negative perception about cannabis, it is alcohol which aggravates cardio problems. Heavy drinking is linked to heart conditions. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to high blood pressure, heart failure or stroke. It can also contribute to cardiomyopathy, a disorder that affects the heart muscle.

While heavy marijuana use can cause complications with the cardiovascular system, it seems light to moderate use can have a least one benefits.  A study conducted by the American Heart Association shows cannabis users had a lower risk of A-fib. Researchers compared the health, length of hospital stay and mortality rates of cannabis users and non-users.

They observed significantly reduced odds of atrial fibrillation (Afib) among cannabis users.  Not only that, patients who were cannabis users were also less likely to die in the hospital. Also surprising to researchers was the fact that cannabis users also had shorter hospital stays than non-cannabis users. 

AFib is an irregular and often very rapid heart rhythm. An irregular heart rhythm is called an arrhythmia. AFib can lead to blood clots in the heart. The condition also increases the risk of stroke, heart failure and other heart-related complications.The intensive study revealed contrary to some pronouns evidence, the large prospective cohort study failed to reveal any evidence that cannabis use was associated with an increased risk of A-fib.

Despite the good news, more research needs to be done and the federal government needs to recognize the benefits of the plant. Only then will it become part of the mainstream treats of heart disease, cancer and more. 

The Fresh Toast is a daily lifestyle platform with a side of cannabis. For more information, visit www.thefreshtoast.com.

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