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Which is Harder to Quit, Coffee or Cannabis?

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What’s harder to quit, cannabis or coffee?

 

Two of life’s great pleasures – good coffee and good weed. For me, these botanical bounties pair together like wine and cheese. The perfect harmony of focus from a fresh French roast followed by unwinding with a flavorful Indica. Truly an unbeatable combo!

 

I’ve enthusiastically partaken in both daily for years. In many ways, quality coffee and cannabis form the yin and yang foundations of my routine. The crisp morning productivity of an expertly pulled espresso followed by the relaxed contemplation from a smoothly rolled evening joint.

 

At this point, I’m what you might call a “caffeine addict” – already on my third straight black coffee just to write this piece! Yet I also deeply appreciate cannabis for its inspiration and stress relief. Moderation and mindfulness with both remain key, but I just can’t imagine life without these staples.

 

Which is exactly why I’ve decided to temporarily give up both starting October 1st!

 

That’s right – in homage to the popular “Sober October” trend, I’m going one step further by nixing my morning cup o’ joe as well. Call it a personal experiment in detachment from substances I’ve used for decades. How difficult will it be to detach from these habits? Let’s discuss…

 

Some interesting facts about coffee

 

Before analyzing how difficult it may be to quit, it helps to understand some fascinating facts about my morning elixir of choice – coffee! Here are some intriguing stats and tidbits about the world’s most widely consumed drug:

 

  • Coffee is the single most popular beverage globally – even more than water! Over 2 billion cups are enjoyed daily. Think about that – people choose coffee more than hydration. Now that’s an addictive substance.

  • Its status as a drug is well deserved. The caffeine in coffee is a powerful psychoactive stimulant. A typical cup contains around 100mg of caffeine – enough for noticeable effects, and potential dependency with regular use.

  • Speaking of addiction, the majority of regular coffee drinkers experience withdrawal effects if they miss their usual dose. Headaches, drowsiness, irritability – I know those symptoms all too well if I don’t get my morning cup.

  • Coffee actually originated in Africa, not South America. The high-energy beans spread along trade routes, which is how coffeehouses sprung up across the Middle East. The brew only arrived in Europe in the 1600s.

  • The Dutch were the first to start the plantation model for coffee in Java. Yet despite the name, Java is just one of countless varietals. Others like Arabica, Robusta, and Kona each have unique flavors and properties.

  • An elaborate trade system evolved around harvesting and distributing beans globally. This gave rise to commodity terms like “java” for Indonesian origin, “mocha” for Yemeni, and “kopi luwak” for the infamously cat poop coffee!

  • Speaking of weird versions, the most expensive coffee in the world is an Indonesian brew called Kopi Luwak. It gets over $700 per pound due to the beans being fermented in the digestive system of Asian palm civets!

  • Finland consumes the most coffee per capita globally, averaging 12kg of coffee per person annually. That’s nearly 2.5 cups per Finn per day! Must be helping them cope with those long winters.

  • Despite its popularity, coffee has a long controversial history. It has been banned at times in various places, especially in religious cultures. But the crackdown never lasts long – people need their fix!

 

The more you learn, the clearer it becomes that coffee is no mere beverage – it’s a powerful drug ingrained in countless cultures, with an amazing history. Now I’m wondering if I can even survive a month without it!

 

What are the Expected Withdrawal Symptoms?

 

Now that we’ve built up the indispensable roles quality coffee and cannabis play in daily life for so many, what happens when you remove them? Let’s explore the potential withdrawal symptoms that may arise when quitting each substance cold turkey:

 

Cannabis Withdrawal for most cannabis users, abstaining doesn’t lead to serious or dangerous withdrawal. However, some common symptoms include:

 

  • Mood changes – without your usual stress relief puff, anxiety, irritability, and agitation can increase. Patience may wear thin.

  • Sleep disruptions – many users report insomnia and vivid dreaming when stopping heavy cannabis use. Quality rest suffers.

  • Appetite shifts – the infamous munchies vanish. You may eat less overall and find food less appealing.

  • Boredom – your habit of sparking up to relax or pass time leaves a void. Activities may feel dull and unengaging.

  • Cravings – the psychological desire for the ritual of smoking can be intense for some in the beginning.

 

These effects are mild for light users, but more pronounced for those consuming heavily, especially strains high in THC. I’ve taken cannabis breaks before with only mild boredom and trouble sleeping. But for heavy medical users, effects likely will be more severe.

 

Coffee Withdrawal Caffeine withdrawal often packs a bigger punch:

 

  • Headaches – likely the most infamous symptom. Without your usual vasoconstriction, blood vessels in the brain dilate, pulsing and pressing. Pain ensues.

  • Fatigue – the energetic boost coffee provides disappears. Without stimulation, expect strong drowsiness, yawning, and low motivation.

  • Brain fog – concentration and focus decline without caffeine stoking your synapses. You may feel cloudy and absent-minded.

  • Irritability – cranky moods and emotional reactivity emerge as your brain misses its usual lift. Short temper and negativity manifest.

  • Nausea – digestion seems off, and some feel outright nauseous without coffee’s biological effects. Upset stomach prevails.

  • Depression – coming off long-term caffeine usage can significantly disrupt mood via neurotransmitter changes. You may feel down.

 

Symptoms peak 2-3 days in and last 1-2 weeks for most. But effects can linger for multiple weeks in heavy drinkers.

 

This won’t be a cakewalk – but that’s the point of my experiment!

 

Coping Mechanisms for Quitting Coffee

 

This laundry list of daunting withdrawal symptoms may have me second-guessing my coffee cleanse. But I’m no quitter – it’s only 30 days, and there are ways to reduce the misery. Here are coping strategies I plan to use:

 

Tapering Quitting cold turkey maximizes shock to your body. I’ll start slowly tapering my intake over a week pre-break. This gives my brain time to adjust to steadily lowering amounts of caffeine rather than immediate deprivation.

 

Alternate Beverages Luckily, we now have many delicious caffeine-free (or very low caffeine) coffee alternatives. Brands like Dandy Blend, Pero, Cafix use ingredients like chicory root, barley, rye to mimic flavor and ritual. Sipping these instead of water will help trick the brain.

 

Exercise Nothing relieves restlessness and boosts energy like exercise. I’ll be diligent about daily movement to counter fatigue. Light workouts also alleviate headaches by increasing circulation. Getting the blood pumping is key.

 

Meditation Centering practices like breathwork, yoga, and meditation will keep me relaxed. And I can use the extra time usually spent sipping coffee for quiet contemplation. A calm mind counters irritability.

 

Healthy Eating Nutrient dense whole foods provide stable energy lacking from coffee. I’ll craft healthy meals and stay hydrated to nourish body and brain. Good health habits combat withdrawal.

 

Cannabis (strategically) I may allow limited cannabis use in the evenings initially to aid sleep issues. And oral THC could relieve headaches without smoking. But I must be cautious not to overuse weed for energy or mood. Moderation is mandatory.

 

Persistence Ultimately, I’ll need grit and willpower to push through acute symptoms. But remembering it’s only 30 days and staying focused on goals keeps me on track. Some discipline goes a long way when quitting.

 

With preparation and mitigation techniques, I believe I can reduce negative impacts significantly while staying committed. While coffee withdrawal will still be challenging, I aim to make it manageable. It may not be fun, but growth often requires some sacrifice. I got this!

 

 

The Sticky Bottom Line

 

Alright, it’s time to talk about taking that leap.

 

I’ve been around the block, experimented with substances from cannabis to alcohol and tobacco. Coffee—it’s been the inevitable next one on the list, a leap I’ve been contemplating for a while now. Well, the time has come, and here’s why I’m going for it.

 

First off, let’s acknowledge the crew I’ve rolled with before. Each substance had its own story, its own quirks, and its own lessons. Cannabis, with its mellowness, opened doors to creativity. Alcohol, the social lubricant, brought unforgettable nights and wicked hangovers. Tobacco, with its calming ritual, became a companion during contemplative moments.

 

Now, let’s address the big question: why coffee? What’s the allure? It’s simple. Coffee isn’t just a beverage; it’s a journey waiting to be embarked upon. It’s a portal to a world of flavors, a shot of energy to kickstart the day, and a warm hug on chilly mornings. Coffee, unlike my previous companions, won’t make me lose my inhibitions or send me into another dimension. Instead, it’ll sharpen my focus and set the tone for the day ahead.

 

I recently found myself in a familiar scene—a friend’s birthday bash at the local bar. I had a couple of drinks, nothing crazy, and yet, the next day’s hangover hit me like a freight train. The pounding headache, the overpowering nausea, the lethargy—it was a misery I’d experienced before, a stark reminder of alcohol’s destructive side.

 

That got me thinking about the dramatic contrast between overindulging in alcohol and giving coffee a shot. With alcohol, a wild night might lead to a brutal hangover or worse. With coffee, you might get uncomfortably wired, but there’s no risk of alcohol poisoning or a pounding headache that makes you swear off booze (until the next celebration, of course).

 

So, what’s the sticky bottom line here? Coffee is different. It’s a new adventure, a chance to explore uncharted territory. But let’s talk about the elephant in the room—caffeine addiction. I’ve seen friends dive headfirst into the world of coffee, unable to function without their daily fix. Moderation is key, the same lesson I’ve learned through my past experiences.

Coffee isn’t meant to be a puppet master; it should be a companion. It’s a warm embrace in the morning, a source of energy during midday slumps, and a comforting presence during late-night creative endeavors. I’ll tread carefully, keeping it in check, and ensuring it doesn’t take control.

 

And then there are the flavors! Coffee isn’t just about caffeine; it’s a symphony for the taste buds. From the simplicity of black coffee to the complexity of lattes and cappuccinos, there’s a world of flavors waiting to be explored. It’s a journey in itself, one that I’m excited to embark upon.

 

So, here’s the deal—I’m taking that plunge into the world of coffee. It’s a new adventure, a fresh chapter in my book of experiences. It’s not just a beverage; it’s a culture, a ritual, a world of possibilities. And like every adventure, it comes with its quirks and potential pitfalls, but I’m ready.

 

Coffee, here I come! May you be my muse on busy mornings, my companion on lazy afternoons, and the inspiration behind countless conversations. This is it—a fresh start, a new journey, and a whole lot of coffee to explore.

 

Here’s to the warmth of that first morning brew, the camaraderie of coffee shops, and the endless opportunities over cups. This is me, taking that plunge, ready to embrace the world of coffee with open arms.

 

Cheers to the adventures that await!

 

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Latest Trump Weed Rumor – Trump Will Federally Deschedule and Decriminalize Cannabis, but Not Legalize It

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In a recent interview, former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie made headlines by asserting that President-elect Donald Trump will pursue significant reforms in federal policies regarding marijuana and cryptocurrency. As the nation grapples with evolving attitudes toward cannabis and the burgeoning digital currency market, Christie’s predictions have ignited discussions about the potential implications of such changes on both industries. This article delves into Christie’s insights, the current state of marijuana and cryptocurrency regulations, and the broader implications of these anticipated reforms.

 

The Current Landscape of Marijuana Legislation

 

Federal vs. State Laws

Marijuana remains classified as a Schedule I substance under the Controlled Substances Act (CSA), which places it in the same category as heroin and LSD. This classification has created a complex legal landscape where states have moved to legalize cannabis for medical and recreational use, while federal law continues to impose strict prohibitions. As of now, over 30 states have legalized marijuana in some form, leading to a burgeoning industry that generates billions in revenue.

 

Challenges Faced by the Cannabis Industry

 

Despite its legality in many states, the cannabis industry faces significant hurdles due to federal restrictions. These challenges include:

  • Banking Access: Many banks are hesitant to work with cannabis businesses due to fear of federal repercussions, forcing these businesses to operate largely in cash.

  • Taxation Issues: The IRS enforces Section 280E of the tax code, which prohibits businesses engaged in illegal activities from deducting normal business expenses, leading to disproportionately high tax burdens for cannabis companies.

  • Interstate Commerce: The lack of federal legalization prevents cannabis businesses from operating across state lines, limiting their growth potential.

 

Chris Christie’s Perspective on Marijuana Reform

 

Christie, a former presidential candidate known for his tough stance on drugs during his tenure as governor, has evolved his views on marijuana over the years. In his recent statements, he emphasized that Trump is likely to pursue descheduling cannabis, which would remove it from the Schedule I classification. This move would not only provide clarity for businesses operating in legal markets but also open avenues for banking and investment.

 

Christie highlighted that descheduling would allow for a more regulated market where safety standards could be established, thus protecting consumers. He believes that this approach aligns with a growing consensus among Americans who support legalization and recognize the potential benefits of cannabis use for both medical and recreational purposes.

 

The Future of Cryptocurrency Regulation = The Rise of Cryptocurrencies

 

Cryptocurrencies have surged in popularity over the past decade, with Bitcoin leading the charge as the first decentralized digital currency. The market has expanded to include thousands of alternative coins (altcoins), each with unique features and use cases. As cryptocurrencies gain traction among investors and consumers alike, regulatory scrutiny has intensified.

 

Current Regulatory Challenges

 

The cryptocurrency market faces several regulatory challenges that hinder its growth and adoption:

 

  • Lack of Clarity: Regulatory frameworks vary significantly across states and countries, creating confusion for investors and businesses.

  • Fraud and Scams: The rapid growth of cryptocurrencies has led to an increase in fraudulent schemes targeting unsuspecting investors.

  • Consumer Protection: Without clear regulations, consumers are often left vulnerable to risks associated with volatile markets.

 

Christie’s Vision for Crypto Regulation

 

Christie believes that under Trump’s leadership, there will be an effort to find a “sweet spot” for cryptocurrency regulation balancing innovation with consumer protection. He argues that overly stringent regulations could stifle growth in this emerging sector while too little oversight could expose consumers to significant risks.

 

In his view, a balanced regulatory framework would include:

 

1. Clear Definitions: Establishing clear definitions for different types of cryptocurrencies and tokens to differentiate between securities and utility tokens.

2. Consumer Protections: Implementing measures to protect investors from fraud while promoting transparency within the market.

3. Encouraging Innovation: Creating an environment conducive to innovation by allowing startups to thrive without excessive regulatory burdens.

 

Christie’s insights reflect a growing recognition among policymakers that cryptocurrencies are here to stay and that appropriate regulations are necessary to foster growth while safeguarding consumers.

 

Implications of Proposed Reforms

 

Economic Impact

 

The potential reforms proposed by Christie could have far-reaching economic implications:

 

  • Job Creation: Legalizing marijuana at the federal level could lead to significant job creation within the cannabis industry—from cultivation and production to retail sales.

  • Investment Opportunities: Descheduling cannabis would open up investment opportunities for institutional investors who have been hesitant due to federal restrictions.

  • Boosting Local Economies: Legal cannabis markets have proven beneficial for local economies through increased tax revenues and job creation.

 

Similarly, clear regulations around cryptocurrencies could stimulate investment in blockchain technology and related industries, fostering innovation and economic growth.

 

Social Justice Considerations

 

Both marijuana legalization and sensible cryptocurrency regulations have social justice implications:

 

  • Addressing Past Injustices: Legalizing marijuana could help rectify past injustices related to drug enforcement policies that disproportionately affected marginalized communities.

  • Financial Inclusion: Cryptocurrencies offer opportunities for financial inclusion for those underserved by traditional banking systems, particularly in low-income communities.

 

Political Landscape

 

The political landscape surrounding these issues is complex. While there is bipartisan support for marijuana reform among certain lawmakers, challenges remain in overcoming entrenched opposition. Similarly, cryptocurrency regulation has garnered attention from both sides of the aisle but requires collaboration to establish effective frameworks.

 

Conclusion

 

Chris Christie’s predictions about President-elect Donald Trump’s approach to federal marijuana descheduling and cryptocurrency regulation suggest a potential shift in U.S. policy that could significantly reshape both industries. As public opinion evolves on these issues, lawmakers have an opportunity to enact meaningful reforms that promote economic growth while ensuring consumer protection. The anticipated changes could foster a more robust cannabis industry that contributes positively to the economy and addresses social justice concerns, while clear regulatory frameworks for cryptocurrencies could encourage innovation and protect consumers in the digital economy. Stakeholders in both sectors are closely watching these developments, eager to see how potential reforms might impact their futures. While the realization of Christie’s predictions remains uncertain, it’s clear that the conversation around marijuana and cryptocurrency regulation is ongoing and far from settled.

 

TRUMP 2.0 ON CANNABIS REFORM, READ ON…

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Webinar Replay: Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em

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On Thursday, November 7th, Vince Sliwoski, Aaron Pelley and Fred Rocafort held a post election discussion “Post-Election Cannabis Wrap – Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em”. Watch the replay!

Key Takeaways from the “Smoke ’em if You’ve Got ’em – 2024 Post Election Cannabis Wrap” Webinar:

  1. Panelists:
    • Vince Sliwoski: Oregon Business lawyer specializing in cannabis and commercial real estate.
    • Aaron Pelley: Experienced in cannabis law since Washington’s legalization in 2012.
    • Fred Rocafort: Trademark attorney working closely with the cannabis team.
  2. Election Results Overview:
    • Most 2024 cannabis ballot measures did not pass.
    • Florida, South Dakota, and North Dakota saw failures.
    • Nebraska became the 39th state to legalize cannabis for medical use when it passed two cannabis initiatives, Initiatives 437 and 438.
  3. Federal and State-Level Developments:
    • Medical use is currently legal in 38 states, and 24 states allow recreational use.
    • Republican support for marijuana legalization is growing.
  4. Federal Policy Implications:
    • Schedule III Rescheduling: The process to move cannabis to Schedule III is ongoing, which could significantly impact the industry.
    • Importance of Federal Appointments: The future of cannabis policy depends heavily on who is appointed to key positions in the administration.
  5. International and Domestic Trade:
    • Schedule III status could ease import/export restrictions on cannabis.
    • Unified control of House, Senate, and presidency might expedite legislative progress.
  6. Economic and Industry Impact:
    • Cannabis stocks experienced volatility post-election, reflecting investor uncertainty.
    • Federal legalization and banking reforms are crucial for industry stability and growth.
  7. Future Outlook:
    • The potential for federal rescheduling remains strong, with hearings scheduled for early 2025.
    • State-level initiatives and regulatory developments will continue to shape the industry.

Watch the replay!



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I Had Just One Puff

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“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..

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