Cannabinoids & Metabolism
Much attention has been paid to the emotional and cognitive effects of marijuana. However, we believe that these effects can only be understood in the context of the endocrine interactions which are initiated by marijuana’s ingestion. In this article we will examine the function of both endogenous and exogenous cannabinoids with an emphasis on metabolic functioning.
We will review evidence which points to endocannabinoids as critical components of the body’s energy balance apparatus, and implicates endocannabinoid dysregulation in the development of metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and mental illness. Finally, we will suggest that cannabis extracts may be useful in the treatment of metabolic dysregulation, and that illicit use of marijuana may in many cases constitute a form of self-medication for the emotional effects of metabolic disorder.