Cannabis could stimulate perceptual reasoning in teenage brain, say researchers



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  • Occasional use, defined once or twice, can actually increase the amount of gray matter.
  • Unfortunately, anxiety is also increased.
  • 35% of Grade 10 students have experimented with cannabis.

All about gray matter volume (GMV)

Medical marijuana patient fighting cancer. Photo Credit: Justin Sullivan / Getty Images

Occasional cannabis use by teens may actually expand the structure of some areas of the brain, according to a study published in the Journal of Neuroscience January 14 illustrates.

"Occasional" cannabis use is defined as the use of the substance once or twice rather than regularly. According to the report: "We have identified large areas in the bilateral medial temporal lobes, as well as in bilateral posterior cingulum, lingual gyri and cerebellum that had greater GMV in cannabis users."

What does it mean?

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The increase in brain volume in these regions is badociated with an increase in performance of tests related to perceptual reasoning, but also – notably – to an increase in symptoms of generalized anxiety.

(And as anyone who has eaten too much food or who has smoked too much weeds can attest, the increased fight against anxiety is real.)

Because at least 35% of Grade 10 students reported using cannabis, and this number is increasing with each level, long-term studies on neurocognitive effects deserve further study.

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Some studies have already shown that high cannabis use among young people can alter their memory as their brain matures. The effect seems to be permanent because it occurs as the brain grows and grows.

Other studies have examined whether adolescent cannabis use may or may not create driving problems; in fact, the reverse is indicated. In other words, those who already have behavior problems revolve around cannabis use.

Some can also treat themselves – which raises the question: if they do not have access to cannabis, are there more risks of heavier impact pharmaceuticals or drugs? 39; alcohol?

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Indeed, in various tests on rats, exposure to THC during puberty increases cognitive difficulties as these animals mature. And others have not shown as much effect.

As more and more states legalize cannabis for medical and recreational purposes, which by definition will increase access, this study clearly shows the need for further research on the effects of cannabis on brain growth. .

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