What You Should Really Know About The Viral Study Claiming Cannabis Causes Memory Loss

Over the past week, we’ve been seeing the same viral news appear on almost every internet news or media outlet.

It’s news surrounding the results of a controversial study, claiming that cannabis use can cause memory loss, especially when consumption patterns are on the heavy side. Researchers from the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus conducted what is considered to be the biggest study of its kind, specifically analyzing the impact of both lifetime and recent cannabis use on the cognitive function of over 1,000 individuals whose ages ranged from 22 to 36.

For the purposes of the study, heavy users were defined as the young adults who consumed weed over a thousand times in their lifetime. On the other hand, moderate users were defined as those who used 10 to 999 times, whole nonusers were those who consumed nonusers. They used MRI tests to assess neural activity among participants, and they were all given a variety of cognitive tasks to complete; the tasks tested different functions in the brain including memory, motor skills, language, emotion, and reward.

Additionally, the investigators used brain imaging technology to measure working memory, which refers to the brain’s short-term storage of information. Humans use working memory in everyday problem solving, reasoning, and other activities.

They found that there was a statistically significant impact on the working memory tasks given to participants, which meant that it was not likely due to coincidence. The dramatic impact was observed among the lifetime and recent cannabis consumers, though it was less significant when compared to other tasks.

“We applied the highest standards to our research, setting rigorous thresholds for statistical significance across all seven cognitive function tests. To minimize the risk of false positives, we employed false discovery rate (FDR) correction. While some of the other tasks indicated potential cognitive impairment, only the working memory task showed a statistically significant impact,” explains Joshua Gowin, PhD, the paper’s first author and an assistant professor of radiology at the University of Colorado School of Medicine and the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus.  Specifically, the researchers discovered that the parts of the brain that are responsible for decision making, emotional processing, attention, and memory showed reduced activity among heavy cannabis users.

The Role of Abstaining

While this might come as a shock, it’s important to note that Gowin explains their findings suggest users can abstain from smoking cannabis before engaging in cognitive tasks, since this can help performance.

“People need to be aware of their relationship with cannabis since abstaining cold turkey could disrupt their cognition as well. For example, heavy users may need to be more cautious,” Gowin explains.

The effects of abstaining can depend on several factors, such as an individual’s history of cannabis use, the task at hand, and various biochemical individual differences. Adding to what Gowin said, there are certainly several potential benefits that users can expect when abstaining from weed, especially when they expect to do a mentally-burdensome task. These include an improvement in cognitive function, better concentration and focus, and sharper clarity as well as alertness.

But Can Cannabis Actually Improve Cognitive Function?

Studies have proven time and again that cannabis affects everyone differently. So while weed use can make some people sharper and more focused with cognitive tasks, it may not have the same effect for others – or even the majority of a population, as seen in this study.

There are also other studies proving that cannabis actually improves cognitive function in others, or doesn’t affect it at all. For example, Dr Staci Gruber’s Marijuana Investigations for Neuroscientific Discovery (MIND) program of the McLean Hospital discovered through longitudinal observational studies that medical marijuana patients showed improved performances in cognitive tasks that required them to use executive functioning.

“Rather than getting worse, they’re actually getting better,” explained Gruber. Gruber and her team are focused on analyzing the impact of cannabis and its impact on cognition, function, quality of life, and brain structure. According to her, this can be attributed to patients who can think more clearly since since their symptoms have been alleviated due to medical marijuana use. However, earlier cannabis use, or regular consumption before the age of 16, is still never recommended because this has been found to severely affect cognitive development and performance later on.

Another study, whose findings were presented at the 2018 annual Society for Neuroscience Meeting, found that animal subjects with Alzheimer’s disease, who were treated with THC, showed significant improvemnets in memory and even lost less brain cells compared to those that weren’t. This could be revolutionary if a breakthrough memory or Alzheimer’s medicine could be developed, which included THC.

Conclusion

In short, the viral study claiming that marijuana can affect your memory should be taken with a grain of salt. It’s just one of many studies backing up the fact that weed will always affect people differently, given that there are already several other studies backing up the use of cannabis to improve cognition – even among medical marijuana users who suffer from physical ailments.

Cannabis certainly does offer neuroprotective benefits for the brain, and it can aid with other cognitive functions including creativity, sleep, reduction in anxiety, and much more. We must still remember that even with studies proving this, cannabis use during adolescence should be prohibited and keep in mind that individual variability will always play a role in the outcome. 

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In a significant development within the cannabis industry, Adam Levin, the chairman of Hightimes Holding Corp., has agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy charges related to a scheme involving undisclosed payments made to an investment analyst. Or is he? Adam plans to change his guilty plea in a new court proceeding that is coming up. So what gives?

Th original scheme aimed to promote Hightimes’ securities offering, raising serious questions about transparency and ethical practices in the burgeoning cannabis market. As the industry continues to navigate regulatory challenges and public scrutiny, this case highlights the complexities and potential pitfalls that companies face as they seek to capitalize on the growing acceptance of cannabis.

Background on Hightimes Holding Corp.

Hightimes Holding Corp., the parent company of the iconic cannabis culture brand High Times, has been a prominent player in the cannabis industry since its inception. Founded in 1974, High Times has long been associated with cannabis advocacy, culture, and education. Over the years, it has evolved into a multimedia company encompassing print publications, events, and digital platforms focused on cannabis.

In recent years, as legalization efforts gained momentum across various states in the U.S., Hightimes sought to capitalize on this trend by transitioning into a publicly traded entity. In 2020, the company announced its intention to go public through a reverse merger with a publicly traded shell company. This move was seen as a way for Hightimes to access capital markets and fund its expansion initiatives.

However, the journey has not been without its challenges. The company has faced various legal and financial hurdles, including allegations of fraud and operational mismanagement that ultimately led to its receivership in 2024. These issues have raised concerns among investors regarding the company’s governance and financial practices.

The Scheme Uncovered

The recent developments surrounding Adam Levin center on allegations that he participated in a scheme to make undisclosed payments to an investment analyst who promoted Hightimes’ securities offering. According to court documents filed on December 20, 2024, Levin agreed to plead guilty to conspiracy charges related to this arrangement.

The scheme reportedly involved over $150,000 in payments made to the analyst as part of an effort to artificially inflate investor interest in Hightimes’ stock. By compensating the analyst for favorable coverage without disclosing these payments, Levin and others involved sought to create a misleading impression of demand for the company’s securities. This lack of transparency is particularly concerning given the regulatory environment surrounding securities offerings, which mandates full disclosure of any compensation arrangements that could influence an analyst’s recommendations.

The Investigation into this scheme was initiated by both the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) and the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), highlighting a broader scrutiny of practices within the cannabis industry. As more companies enter this rapidly evolving market, regulators are increasingly vigilant about ensuring compliance with securities laws and protecting investors from potential fraud.

## Legal Consequences

As part of his plea agreement, Adam Levin is set to appear in court on January 17, 2025. He faces a potential maximum sentence of five years in federal prison for his role in the conspiracy. The plea agreement indicates that Levin is cooperating with authorities as they continue their investigation into Hightimes and its business practices.

The legal ramifications extend beyond Levin himself; they also raise questions about corporate governance within Hightimes Holding Corp. The company’s board of directors will likely face increased scrutiny regarding their oversight responsibilities and whether they adequately monitored Levin’s actions.

In addition to potential criminal charges for individuals involved in such schemes, companies can also face civil penalties from regulatory agencies like the SEC. These penalties can include fines, disgorgement of profits obtained through fraudulent activities, and restrictions on future business operations.

 Implications for Hightimes Holding Corp.

The fallout from Levin’s plea agreement is likely to have significant implications for Hightimes Holding Corp. The company has already been grappling with various challenges related to its financial stability and reputation within the industry. The revelation of this scheme adds another layer of complexity to an already precarious situation.

 1. Investor Confidence

One immediate concern is how this development will affect investor confidence in Hightimes Holding Corp. Investors are increasingly cautious about putting their money into companies embroiled in legal controversies or allegations of fraud. Given that Hightimes has already faced scrutiny over its business practices, this latest revelation could deter potential investors from participating in future funding rounds or purchasing shares.

 2. Regulatory Scrutiny

The ongoing investigation by federal authorities is likely to result in heightened regulatory scrutiny for Hightimes Holding Corp. Companies operating within the cannabis space must navigate a complex web of federal and state regulations; any indication of wrongdoing can lead regulators to take a closer look at a company’s operations. This increased scrutiny may result in further investigations or audits that could disrupt business operations and hinder growth prospects.

3. Reputation Damage

Hightimes has built its brand around cannabis culture and advocacy; however, allegations of unethical practices can tarnish its reputation among consumers and advocates alike. As public perception plays a crucial role in the success of cannabis companies, any damage done to Hightimes’ reputation could have long-lasting effects on its market position and ability to attract customers.

 4. Operational Challenges

With Levin’s impending court appearance and potential sentencing looming over the company, operational challenges may arise as key leadership figures are embroiled in legal battles. Uncertainty regarding leadership stability can create internal disruptions that hinder decision-making processes essential for navigating an evolving market landscape.

Cannabis Industry Challenges

Levin’s case is not an isolated incident but rather part of broader challenges facing the cannabis industry as it matures. As more states legalize cannabis for medical or recreational use—leading some companies toward lucrative opportunities—regulatory compliance becomes increasingly critical.

 1. Regulatory Landscape

The regulatory landscape surrounding cannabis remains complex due largely to its classification as a Schedule I substance under federal law despite legalization efforts at state levels. Companies must navigate differing regulations across jurisdictions while ensuring compliance with federal securities laws when seeking investments or going public.

 2. Market Competition

As competition intensifies within the cannabis sector—both from established players like Hightimes and new entrants—companies face pressure not only regarding compliance but also profitability metrics that appeal directly toward investors seeking returns on their investments.

 3. Public Perception

Public perception plays an essential role in shaping consumer behavior within emerging markets like cannabis; negative headlines can quickly sway opinions against brands perceived as engaging in unethical practices or lacking transparency—further complicating efforts toward building trust among consumers who prioritize ethical sourcing methods when choosing products they consume.

Conclusion

The case involving Adam Levin, chairman of Hightimes Holding Corp., underscores critical issues of transparency and ethical conduct within the cannabis industry, highlighting the potential legal and reputational repercussions that can arise from undisclosed financial arrangements. As Levin prepares to plead guilty to conspiracy charges related to undisclosed payments aimed at promoting the company’s securities offering, this incident serves as a cautionary tale for cannabis companies navigating the complexities of regulatory compliance and investor relations. The fallout from this case not only threatens Hightimes’ financial stability and investor confidence but also reflects broader challenges facing the industry as it matures, emphasizing the need for robust corporate governance and ethical practices to foster trust among consumers and investors alike. Ultimately, the developments surrounding Hightimes and Levin illustrate the delicate balance that cannabis companies must maintain between pursuing growth opportunities and adhering to legal and ethical standards in an increasingly scrutinized market.

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GANJA THEORIES: What does the future look like in 10-years time?

As I sit here, rolling up my evening joint and reflecting on the absolute circus that was 2024, I can’t help but marvel at how fucking weird everything has become. And folks, let me tell you – this is just the beginning. We’ve officially entered what I like to call “The Twilight Zone on steroids,” where reality seems to be shifting faster than you can say “artificial intelligence.”

Remember when the craziest thing we had to worry about was whether we’d get caught smoking behind the gym? Now we’re watching AI systems write poetry, create art, and probably plot their digital takeover while we sleep. Every morning I wake up to headlines that would have been rejected from Black Mirror episodes for being “too unrealistic” just a few years ago.

And let’s not forget about the testosterone-fueled war hawks, strutting around with their military-industrial complex boners, trying to convince us that World War III would be great for the economy. Meanwhile, conspiracy theories that seemed batshit insane last year are turning into tomorrow’s breaking news, and we’re all just supposed to act like this is normal.

So, I did what any reasonable cannabis enthusiast would do when confronted with the impending techno-apocalypse – I rolled up a fat one and let my mind wander into the future. What will our world look like in 2034? Will we all be working for AI overlords? Will cannabis finally be legal everywhere? Will we be fighting wars with robot soldiers, or will we have evolved beyond our primitive warfare instincts?

Fair warning: my predictions are probably going to be way off. But then again, who could have predicted where we are now? So spark up, settle in, and let’s take a trip into tomorrow. Trust me, it’s going to be one hell of a ride.

I recently stumbled upon a fascinating conversation between Zachary Levi and Glen Beck where they discussed the future of entertainment in an AI-dominated world. Levi, who’s surprisingly switched on for a Hollywood type, painted a picture that got my synapses firing – imagine a Disney+ where you’re not just watching content, but creating it. Want to see Indiana Jones and Captain America team up to take down Darth Vader while Bambi watches from the sidelines? Just type it in, and boom – instant custom movie.

Now, pass that joint for a moment, because while Levi’s vision is compelling, I think he’s missing a crucial point about human nature. We’re fundamentally lazy creatures. Sure, right now you can jump onto Midjourney or ChatGPT and create some mind-blowing content with minimal effort. Hell, I’ve seen AI-generated art that would make Salvador Dalí do a double-take. But here’s the thing – most people don’t want to create. They want to consume.

Think about it. After a long day of work, how many people actually fire up their creativity engines? Most folks just want to sink into their couch, crack open a beer (or spark up), and let entertainment wash over them like a warm wave of mindless comfort. They work their 9-to-5 to fund their 5-to-9 consumption habits. It’s the circle of modern life.

But here’s where things get really interesting – and by interesting, I mean potentially terrifying. What happens when AI starts automating away those 9-to-5 jobs? When robots are flipping burgers, driving trucks, and even writing code, what happens to all those consumers? We’re talking about a future where a significant chunk of people’s identity – their work – gets stripped away faster than papers at a Snoop Dogg concert.

See, work isn’t just about earning money. It’s about purpose, identity, and feeling like you contribute something to society. When I’m high, I often ponder this existential dilemma: if our jobs are what we do to afford the things we consume, what happens when we can’t get jobs anymore? The entertainment industry might be the canary in the coal mine, but it’s just the beginning. We’re staring down the barrel of a much bigger societal shift, and I’m not sure we’re ready for it.

Maybe it’s time we all took a deep breath (and a deep hit) and started seriously thinking about what it means to be human in a world where machines can do everything better than us. Because let’s face it – that world is coming faster than a pizza delivery during a serious case of the munchies.

Here’s a sobering thought that hits different after your third bong rip: there’s a monster lurking in our collective closet, and most people don’t even know it exists. I’m talking about the impending reality of mass unemployment due to automation. Not the gradual, manageable kind – I mean the “holy shit, what happened to all the jobs?” kind that’s barreling toward us like a runaway freight train.

Look, I’m not trying to harsh your mellow, but we need to talk about what happens when a significant portion of society suddenly finds themselves with nothing to do. Because let me tell you something – humans without purpose are like dried-out cannabis plants; they wither, they crack, and eventually, they become fuel for fire.

Speaking of fire, history has taught us what happens when large groups of purposeless people get together. All it takes is one charismatic asshole with a funky mustache or a weird haircut to start pointing fingers at “the other.” But this time around, “the other” won’t be some marginalized group – it’ll be the mega-corporations with their armies of AI robots, trained on data they harvested from us like we were their personal information farms. How’s that for irony? We basically taught our future overlords everything they know.

Now, I know what you’re thinking: “Damn, Reggie, that’s some dark shit.” And you’re right. This is definitely the kind of future you’d imagine after hitting some particularly paranoia-inducing sativa. But here’s the thing – we don’t have to slide face-first into this dystopian nightmare.

Maybe we pump the brakes a bit on this whole “automation revolution.” What if we implemented some kind of “human inclusivity” requirements? Think of it as affirmative action for the entire human race. “Sorry, RoboCorp, you need at least 30% meat-based employees to operate legally.” It sounds ridiculous, but so did the idea of carrying a supercomputer in your pocket just a few decades ago.

Or perhaps our roles evolve upward. Instead of packing boxes, we become logistics coordinators. Instead of flipping burgers, we become experience designers. We could shift into more complex, uniquely human roles that AI can’t easily replicate. At least not until they figure out how to simulate consciousness, but that’s a whole other joint we’ll have to smoke.

But here’s the kicker – who’s going to be making these decisions? Looking at our current crop of world leaders is about as reassuring as finding mold in your stash. These are the same people who can’t figure out if a plant should be legal or not, and we’re trusting them to navigate the biggest technological shift in human history?

I don’t know about you, but I’m thinking we’re going to need a lot more weed to get through this transition period. And maybe, just maybe, that’s not such a bad thing. After all, cannabis has a way of helping us see possibilities we might have missed otherwise. And right now, we need all the possibilities we can get.

If there’s one silver lining to this whole AI revolution – besides needing more cannabis to process it all – it’s that we’re entering an unprecedented age of individual empowerment. Picture this: you wake up with a vision, spark up your morning joint, and by sunset, you’ve created a short film complete with custom graphics, original music, and Morgan Freeman narrating (well, something that sounds eerily like him). That’s not science fiction anymore, folks. That’s Tuesday.

Sam Altman, the tech wizard behind OpenAI, predicted the first AI-enabled solopreneur billionaire. And you know what? He’s probably right. We’re watching creativity become a superpower right before our eyes. While everyone else is doom-scrolling through their social media feeds, the real players are out there mixing AI with human ingenuity like master alchemists, turning digital lead into gold.

Speaking of gold, originality is about to become the most precious commodity in a world where AI can churn out content faster than a hydroponic grow operation. When anyone can generate anything at any time, the truly unique, the genuinely human, will shine like a diamond in a pile of cubic zirconia. Entertainment won’t just evolve – it’ll mutate into forms we can’t even imagine yet. Music will break free from traditional structures. Art will explode into new dimensions.

And don’t get me started on science. We’re talking about discoveries dropping faster than new strain names at a cannabis cup. Every week bringing something that would have blown minds just a few years ago. It’s like humanity just upgraded from a bicycle to a spaceship, and we’re still figuring out which buttons do what.

Look, I can’t do anything about the power-hungry goblins running the show from their corporate towers. But what I can do – what we all can do – is dive deep into our own creativity and ride this wave of technological empowerment like cosmic surfers. Sure, the robots might take over the assembly lines, the customer service desks, and maybe even the corner offices. But they can’t replicate the spark of human inspiration (at least not yet).

The smart play here is adaptation. Take what you know, mix it with these new AI tools, and create something the machines couldn’t dream up on their own. Because let’s face it – a lot more jobs are going to disappear than most people realize. That’s not pessimism; that’s just reading the tea leaves (or in my case, the cannabis leaves).

But here’s my philosophy: instead of fighting the inevitable, I’m embracing it. I’ve stopped trying to control the uncontrollable and started focusing on creation, expression, and innovation. With every new AI tool that drops, I’m like a kid in a candy store, mixing and matching capabilities to bring my ideas to life.

We’re standing at the threshold of something massive here, folks. Humanity is about to level up in ways we can barely comprehend. The next decade will show us just how far this rabbit hole goes.

Of course, there’s always the possibility we’ll freak out and nuke ourselves back to the Stone Age. But hey, that’s just one possible timeline, right?

Your move, humanity. Choose wisely. And maybe keep some extra stash on hand – something tells me we’re going to need it.

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