Cannabis News
Cookies, Chips, Cocaine, and Heroin
Do you have a a processed food addiction?
Fresh research has revealed that highly processed foods possess a level of addictiveness on par with substances like heroin, cocaine, and nicotine. Consequently, some healthcare professionals are urging cautionary labels on frequently consumed snacks like cookies and chips. This recent study, which scrutinized the results of almost 300 previous nutritional investigations, has been recently published in the peer-reviewed British Medical Journal.
Dr. Ashley Gearhardt, a professor at the University of Michigan, led this study. Dr. Gearhardt had previously devised the Yale Food Addiction Scale (YFAS) by employing experts’ criteria in diagnosing substance addiction, which encompasses unmanageable and excessive consumption, cravings, and persistent intake despite potential negative health consequences.
Notably, food addiction is not included in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), one of the most widely used diagnostic frameworks for mental health; yet, during the past 20 years, there has been a notable increase in studies in this field. The YFAS, designed to evaluate food addiction using DSM-5 criteria for drug use disorders within the context of dietary behaviors, is a major data source for this study.
Study Finds 14% of Adults Are Addicted to UPFs
In conducting the recent study, a group of researchers examined 281 prior investigations conducted across 36 countries. Their findings revealed that 14% of adults exhibit addiction tendencies towards ultra-processed foods (UPFs). These results raised concerns among the researchers due to the widespread presence of UPFs, including items like cookies, ice cream, sausages, sugary soft drinks, and breakfast cereals, in contemporary diets.
The research team noted in their new findings that UPFs, often characterized by a combination of refined carbohydrates and fats, appear to exert a synergistic influence on brain reward systems, surpassing the impact of either macronutrient in isolation. This heightened interaction potentially elevates the addictive potential of these food items, as stated by Gearhardt and the study’s authors.
The increasing prevalence of UPFs has been linked in previous research to severe medical conditions, such as cancer, premature mortality, cognitive decline, and mental health issues.
Chris van Tulleken, one of the study’s authors, conveyed to The Guardian that many individuals find UPFs addictive. When people grapple with food addiction, it is frequently tied to UPF products.
The precise mechanism by which UPFs trigger food addictions remains incompletely understood. Some experts posit that rather than a single substance serving as the primary catalyst for food addictions, the collective consumption of UPFs could play a pivotal role.
The researchers noted that while these UPFs may not be inherently addictive on their own, food additives may act as “reinforcers” of their caloric effects.
Food Addiction Similar to Drugs and Alcohol
Unprocessed, natural foods typically tend to be higher in either carbohydrates or fats, but not both simultaneously. Conversely, ultra-processed foods (UPFs) often exhibit an imbalanced excess of both fats and carbohydrates. Consuming UPFs triggers an initial surge in dopamine, followed by a sharp drop in this neurotransmitter. This pattern creates a cycle of craving, momentary satisfaction, and subsequent crash, akin to the dynamics seen with drugs and alcohol. However, it’s important to note that not everyone is susceptible to this cycle.
As Dr. van Tulleken points out, “Addictive products affect individuals differently. As nearly 90% of people can experiment with alcohol without developing problematic habits, many can try cigarettes or even cocaine without succumbing to addiction.”
Previous research has also shown that the consumption of sugary or fatty foods can diminish the appeal of healthier options, potentially leading to issues like overindulgence and weight gain. Unfortunately, avoiding UPFs has become a challenge for many individuals because processed foods have become pervasive in modern diets. Consequently, some health-conscious researchers propose that certain foods should come with warning labels, similar to those found on cigarettes and other tobacco products, due to their addictive properties.
Dr. van Tulleken aptly compares attempting to quit UPFs today to trying to quit smoking in the 1960s.
Fortunately, most substances are safe when used in moderation. As a result, reputable online medical resource Healthline recommends that processed foods should constitute no more than 10% to 20% of an individual’s daily calorie intake. To facilitate this, Dr. van Tulleken suggests making thoughtful food choices and asking oneself, “Is this genuinely food?” This approach can help individuals transition from addiction to a state of aversion.
Demands for Regulatory Measures and Public Awareness
The study’s revelations about the addictive nature of highly processed foods have spurred calls for regulatory action and an increased focus on public awareness.
Advocating Regulatory Measures: Health professionals and public health advocates are pressing for regulatory steps akin to those employed for substances like tobacco and alcohol. This could encompass introducing cautionary labels on highly processed foods to inform consumers about their addictive potential and the associated health hazards. Such labeling could serve as a crucial tool in helping individuals make more informed dietary choices.
Elevating Public Awareness: Enhancing public awareness stands as a fundamental strategy in addressing the problem of food addiction. Much like campaigns against smoking and excessive alcohol consumption have successfully raised awareness of health risks, efforts to educate the public about the addictive properties of processed foods can lead to more informed and health-conscious eating habits.
Health Education Initiatives: Schools, healthcare providers, and public health agencies can play a significant role in enlightening individuals about the dangers linked to consuming highly processed foods. By providing information about the addictive attributes of these products and their potential impact on well-being, people can make more deliberate decisions about their dietary choices.
Support and Treatment Options: Individuals grappling with food addiction require increased access to support and treatment services. Health systems can develop resources and treatment alternatives for those who find themselves ensnared by highly processed foods, offering a pathway to recovery and the cultivation of healthier eating habits.
Bottom Line
The study underscores the alarming addictive potential of highly processed foods, paralleling the addictiveness of drugs like heroin and cocaine. With calls for regulatory measures and heightened public awareness, addressing the pervasive presence of these foods in modern diets becomes crucial. As 14% of adults show addiction tendencies to ultra-processed foods and their synergistic impact on brain reward systems is recognized, it is imperative to develop strategies for informed dietary choices, support for those struggling with food addiction, and the introduction of cautionary labels to mitigate the health risks associated with these widely consumed products.
INFUSED FOODS HAVE THEIR RULES, READ ON…
“How Long Does One Puff of Weed Stay in Your System?”… This topic can be difficult to answer since it is dependent on elements such as the size of the hit and what constitutes a “one hit.” If you take a large bong pull then cough, it might linger in your system for 5-7 days. A moderate dose from a joint can last 3-5 days, whereas a few hits from a vaporizer may last 1-3 days.
The length of time that marijuana stays in the body varies based on a number of factors, including metabolism, THC levels, frequency of use, and hydration.
Delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, is the primary psychoactive component of cannabis. THC and its metabolites, which remain in your body long after the effects have subsided, are detected by drug tests.
Since these metabolites are fat-soluble, they cling to bodily fat molecules. They could thus take a while to fully pass through your system, particularly if your body fat percentage is higher.
THC is absorbed by tissues and organs (including the brain, heart, and fat) and converted by the liver into chemicals such as 11-hydroxy-THC and carboxy-THC. Cannabis is eliminated in feces at a rate of around 65%, while urine accounts for 20%. The leftover amount might be kept within the body.
THC deposited in bodily tissues ultimately re-enters the circulation and is processed by the liver. For frequent users, THC accumulates in fatty tissues quicker than it can be removed, thus it may be detectable in drug tests for days or weeks following consumption.
The detection time varies according to the amount and frequency of cannabis usage. Higher dosages and regular usage result in longer detection times.
The type of drug test also affects detection windows. Blood and saliva tests typically detect cannabis metabolites for shorter periods, while urine and hair samples can reveal use for weeks or even months. In some cases, hair tests have detected cannabis use over 90 days after consumption.
Detection Windows for Various Cannabis Drug Tests
Urine Tests
Among all drug tests, urine testing is the most commonly used method for screening for drug use in an individual.
Detection times vary, but a 2017 review suggests the following windows for cannabis in urine after last use:
– Single-use (e.g., one joint): up to 3 days
– Moderate use (around 4 times a week): 5–7 days
– Chronic use (daily): 10–15 days
– Chronic heavy use (multiple times daily): over 30 days
Blood Tests
Blood tests generally detect recent cannabis use, typically within 2–12 hours after consumption. However, in cases of heavy use, cannabis has been detected up to 30 days later. Chronic heavy use can extend the detection period in the bloodstream.
Saliva Tests
THC can enter saliva through secondhand cannabis smoke, but THC metabolites are only present if you’ve personally smoked or ingested cannabis.
Saliva testing has a short detection window and can sometimes identify cannabis use on the same day. A 2020 review found that THC was detectable in the saliva of frequent users for up to 72 hours after use, and it may remain in saliva longer than in blood following recent use.
In areas where cannabis is illegal, saliva testing is often used for roadside screenings.
Hair Tests
Hair follicle tests can detect cannabis use for up to 90 days. After use, cannabinoids reach the hair follicles through small blood vessels and from sebum and sweat surrounding the hair.
Hair grows at approximately 0.5 inches per month, so a 1.5-inch segment of hair close to the scalp can reveal cannabis use over the past three months.
Factors Affecting THC and Metabolite Retention
The length of time THC and its metabolites stay in your system depends on various factors. Some, like body mass index (BMI) and metabolic rate, relate to individual body processing, not the drug itself.
Other factors are specific to cannabis use, including:
– Dosage: How much you consume
– Frequency: How often you use cannabis
– Method of consumption: Smoking, dabbing, edibles, or sublingual
– THC potency: Higher potency can extend detection time
Higher doses and more frequent use generally extend THC retention. Cannabis consumed orally may remain in the system slightly longer than smoked cannabis, and stronger cannabis strains, higher in THC, may also stay detectable for a longer period.
How Quickly Do the Effects of Cannabis Set In?
When smoking cannabis, effects appear almost immediately, while ingested cannabis may take 1–3 hours to peak.
The psychoactive component THC produces a “high” with common effects such as:
– Altered senses, including perception of time
– Mood changes
– Difficulty with thinking and problem-solving
– Impaired memory
Other short-term effects can include:
– Anxiety and confusion
– Decreased coordination
– Dry mouth and eyes
– Nausea or lightheadedness
– Trouble focusing
– Increased appetite
– Rapid heart rate
– Restlessness and sleepiness
In rare cases, high doses may lead to hallucinations, delusions, or acute psychosis.
Regular cannabis use may have additional mental and physical effects. While research is ongoing, cannabis use may increase the risk of:
– Cognitive issues like memory loss
– Cardiovascular problems including heart disease and stroke
– Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis or lung infections
– Mood disorders like depression and anxiety
Cannabis use during pregnancy can negatively impact fetal growth and development.
Duration of Effects
Short-term effects generally taper off within 1–3 hours, but for chronic users, some long-term effects may last days, weeks, or even months. Certain effects may even be permanent.
Bottom Line
The amount of time that cannabis remains in your system following a single use varies greatly depending on individual characteristics such as body fat, metabolism, frequency of use, and mode of intake. Frequent users may maintain traces of THC for weeks, whereas infrequent users may test positive for as little as a few days. Hair tests can disclose usage for up to 90 days, while blood and saliva tests identify more recent use. Urine tests are the most popular and have varying detection durations. The duration that THC and its metabolites are detectable will ultimately depend on a number of factors, including dose, strength, and individual body chemistry.
PEE IN A CUP COMING UP, READ ON..
Is kratom addictive? Discover the potential for dependence on Kratom, the risks involved with its use, and how to approach its consumption responsibly.
From 2011 to 2017, over 1,800 calls to poison centers involved kratom in the U.S. This significant number highlights the concern regarding kratom addiction.
However, without Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversight, and due to various consumption methods like teas and capsules, there are significant health risks. Safe use of kratom is now in question due to these issues.
Research debates how dependence develops, outlining signs like loss of control and withdrawal symptoms. These signs are seen in regular kratom users. Ironically, some people switch from drugs like heroin to kratom, looking for a legal alternative.
Understanding Kratom: Origins and Prevalence
Kratom comes from the Mitragyna speciosa tree in Southeast Asia. It can act like a stimulant or like opioids, based on how much you take. People use it in different ways, for a small energy boost or stronger effects at higher doses.
The legal status of kratom in the U.S. is complicated and changing. It’s a hot topic because some worry about its misuse. It’s still legal in several states. This shows how different places handle drug rules. The National Institute on Drug Abuse is looking into its medical benefits. But, the FDA hasn’t approved it for medical use yet. The DEA calls it a “drug of concern,” which means policies might change.
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From 2011 to 2017, poison control centers in the U.S. got over 1,800 reports about kratom. This shows it’s widely used and might pose health risks.
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Kratom’s main ingredients bind to opioid receptors very strongly, stronger than morphine even. This fact is key to understanding its effects.
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As more people use kratom, more are reporting serious health problems. These include liver and heart issues, and tough withdrawal symptoms, particularly in those already sick.
The statistics show mounting worries about kratom in the U.S. As its use grows, it’s becoming more important to health policies and laws. What happens next will depend on further research and legal decisions.
Is Kratom Addictive: Investigating the Substance’s Nature
The question of kratom’s addictiveness focuses on how it affects brain receptors and its long-term health implications. The ongoing debate highlights concerns about dependence and the risk of addiction. Scientists are closely looking at these issues.
How Kratom Works in the Brain
Kratom’s main alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, bind to the brain’s opioid receptors, similar to painkillers and narcotics. This connection suggests a potential risk of dependence. These alkaloids are key to kratom’s pain relief but also point to possible addiction concerns, especially with frequent, high-dose usage.
Patterns and Consequences of Long-term Use
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Using kratom often, especially in large doses, can increase the risk of dependence and intense withdrawal symptoms, similar to opioid withdrawal.
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Although some use it for pain or to improve mood, long-term kratom users might see serious health problems, like liver damage and mental health issues.
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Withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, nausea, and sleep problems, show kratom’s impact on one’s physical and mental health.
Assessment of Addiction Risks
Studies indicate a significant risk of addiction to kratom, especially with high doses or frequent use. Dependence develops as the body gets used to kratom, leading to tolerance and a need for more to feel its effects. Withdrawal symptoms emphasize this risk, as highlighted by health experts.
Physiological Effects: Kratom’s Impact on the Body
There is a lot of debate about the safety and use of kratom. This herbal extract comes from the Mitragyna speciosa plant. It has drawn attention for its possible harmful effects on the body. The FDA has issued many warnings about kratom, raising safety concerns.
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Kratom Adverse Effects: Kratom users have reported side effects like nausea, vomiting, and confusion. More serious issues include high blood pressure and liver damage. These problems highlight the risks of using kratom.
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Herbal Extract Safety: Some kratom products contain heavy metals and pathogens. These can cause severe health issues, including death. This shows the importance of safety in herbal products.
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FDA Warnings and Regulations: The FDA has linked kratom to over 35 deaths and warns against using it. They point out the lack of medical uses and the risk of addiction.
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Physiological Impact: Kratom’s effects depend on the dose and the user’s body. Yet, it can lead to dangerous outcomes like liver damage and seizures.
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Safety Concerns from Authorities: Federal agencies like the DEA are worried about kratom’s safety. Although not a controlled substance, monitoring suggests users should be careful.
Kratom might offer temporary relief for some ailments, but it comes with significant risks. The FDA’s warnings should make people think twice. If considering kratom, it’s crucial to talk to a doctor first. Experts stress the need for safety and caution with herbal extracts.
Conclusion
Kratom’s role in health and regulation is complex, with views and research findings widely varied. Some people use kratom for its claimed health benefits, but it’s a hot topic. Experts advise caution and suggest consulting a doctor before using kratom due to the unclear effects.
Clinical studies using scores like SOWS and COWS haven’t confirmed withdrawal symptoms from kratom. This adds to the debate, especially when some users report withdrawal. This makes kratom a controversial subject among different findings and user experiences.
When it comes to treating opioid addiction, kratom can be both helpful and harmful. Some have used it successfully to fight addiction. Yet, some states have banned it. This highlights the need for regulations and consistent product quality. It also raises questions about kratom’s legal status due to mixed actions by authorities.
The situation shows how complex kratom is in the realm of substance use and law. Without clear evidence supporting either its benefits or risks, it poses a challenge. More research is needed to guide regulations and health advice. For now, anyone thinking of using kratom should be careful, seek medical advice, and keep up with laws and health guidelines.
WHAT IS KRATOM ANYWAY? READ ON…
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