Millions of individuals around the world experience gut health issues, ranging from occasional discomfort to chronic conditions. These issues can significantly impact daily life, causing pain, bloating, and digestive difficulties. In the search for relief, many are turning to unconventional therapies, and medical marijuana (MMJ) is emerging as a significant drug alternative. It contains chemical compounds with a therapeutic nature. However, in Florida, medical cannabis or marijuana use requires having a medical marijuana card St. Petersburg that allows certain patients to use this drug.
In this article, we will discuss how marijuana can prove beneficial for medicinal purposes and help in managing the symptoms of many diseases. Moreover, we will elucidate the mechanism through which MMJ affects the body.
What is Gut Health?
Several diagnosable digestive illnesses affect the gastrointestinal tract (GI), which comprises the small and large intestines, stomach, gallbladder, pancreas, liver, and esophagus. The gut is a crucial part of the body as it directs viruses and bacteria out of circulation. It also acts as a barrier to infectious elements that can deteriorate the system and lead to malfunction.
Some significant diseases that can affect your gut include IBS or Irritable Bowel Syndrome; IBD Irritable Bowel Disease, and diverticulitis, among others. Thus, finding the right remedy is crucial.
Types of Gut Disorders
There are different types of gut disorders. Some common ones are:
Celiac disease
In this disorder, the immune system repeatedly targets gluten due to its severe sensitivity. If the person continues to consume gluten, their villi, which aid nutrition absorption, may be destroyed.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS):
This illness frequently manifests as stomach pain or discomfort, as well as marked variations in feces from one day to the next. Bloating is another typical sign of this illness.
Diverticulitis
It is a disorder where the lining of your digestive tract develops tiny pouches on vulnerable areas, most commonly the colon. This illness’s most typical signs and symptoms include fever and stomach discomfort.
How do you diagnose Gut issues?
Gut problems may become more severe if not treated on time. The warning signs and symptoms that co-occur with digestive diseases include bloating, heartburn, nausea, weight gain or loss, diarrhea, constipation, and difficulties swallowing. Abdominal discomfort, fever, and irregular bowel motions are other typical symptoms.
Proper medication after diagnosis is necessary for gut health, including diagnostic tests like colonoscopy, upper GI endoscopy, and endoscopic ultrasonography. Even though surgery, an invasive therapy for any digestive disease, may be required, there are less invasive ways to control the symptoms, such as dietary and activity adjustments and medicines.
In recent times, owing to the advanced research in the MMJ field, this drug has gained attention. Its medicinal chemical constituents can aid in managing a number of health issues, including gut health matters.
Read further to learn how MMJ can help with gut health.
Can Cannabis improve Gut health?
The organs of the digestive system are greatly affected by inflammation, which can deteriorate an individual’s health. Inflammation is one of the most crucial issues for gut health. Research suggests a potential link between cannabis and gut health.
Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are vital cannabis cannabinoids. These cannabinoids can react with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which influences functions like inflammation in the gut.
In some trials, patients reported that MMJ has significant therapeutic effects for managing stomach discomfort, nausea, and diarrhea. Cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) are anti-inflammatory and may help reduce inflammation, relieving the symptoms.
Endocannabinoid Deficit
The endocannabinoid system controls many essential processes, such as eating, sleeping, and managing stress. Researchers are exploring that endocannabinoid deficit may contribute to several chronic illnesses, including digestive problems like irritable bowel syndrome (IBDs). The presence of cannabinoid receptors in the gut further fuels the exploration of CBD, a cannabis compound, for intestinal health.
When your gut microbiome becomes unbalanced, it can affect your overall health. Research suggests that CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help with this imbalance. For example, CBD might reduce the sensitivity of a stomach receptor that causes a burning sensation from spicy food. However, more research is needed to confirm CBD’s effectiveness for specific gut issues.
While the potential benefits of MMJ for gut health are intriguing, it is crucial to remember this field is still evolving. The success of cannabis depends on individual needs and the form it is consumed in. Thus, consulting a marijuana specialist is crucial in this regard.
Also, every cannabis treatment is customized to each patient’s physiology and only an MMJ doctor can recommend cannabis if a patient is found suited to using this drug.
The Takeaway
Medical marijuana can help to cope with gut health issues as it contains beneficial compounds such as CBD and THC. However, every patient’s symptoms and health needs are unique. Thus, consulting an MMJ doctor and getting a medical marijuana card St. Petersburg is necessary for this form of alternative treatment.