Blame it on the munchies
The legalization of cannabis has made it hard to walk down the street in some urban centers without inhaling a good dose of smoke from weed, and chewables are everywhere. As of April 2025, 39 states, three territories, and the District of Columbia allow cannabis use for medical conditions, and 24 states, two territories, and the District of Columbia have legalized nonmedical adult cannabis use.
But just like alcohol, legalization doesn't mean it's entirely safe. A report delivered at the meeting of the European Association for the Study of Diabetes looked at five years of data on millions of folks and found that new cases of diabetes were four times higher in those who used cannabis compared to those who didn't. Whether it's because stoned folks munch on unhealthy foods and adopt sedentary behavior, the active ingredients in weed alter metabolism, or there are other not yet identified effects, the researchers couldn't say. But I caution you to pay attention to your use and to have your doctor keep tabs on your glucose levels.
And one more alert: Pay attention to how your mood is affected by the super-potent strains of cannabis out there. There's evidence (not conclusive) that a strong dose may promote depression and anxiety, and it seems that real dependence on the stuff amps up the risk for psychosis and schizophrenia in susceptible folks.
For alternative ways to relax and have fun, try yoga, tai chi, meditation, and enjoying walks and talks with your posse, outlined in the free newsletter at 4YOUngevity.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2023 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2025 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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