Frequent cannabis users may wake up with higher levels of cortisol, the hormone associated with stress, according to new research from Oregon State University. This finding raises important questions about how regular cannabis use could disrupt the body’s natural stress response system. While many people turn to cannabis for stress relief, this study suggests that over time, it might interfere with the very mechanisms that help manage stress effectively.

For those looking to age well, understanding cortisol’s role is crucial. Elevated cortisol levels can lead to various health issues, including anxiety, depression, and heart disease. The study found that frequent cannabis users had increased cortisol levels upon waking compared to non-users. This could indicate a potential risk for those who rely on cannabis for stress management, as it may create a cycle of dependency and further stress dysregulation.

The research is still in its early stages, as it does not definitively prove that cannabis use causes higher cortisol levels or that elevated cortisol leads to increased cannabis consumption. The study analyzed cortisol levels in adults, focusing on the cortisol awakening response (CAR), which measures how cortisol levels rise after waking. While the study did not replicate previous findings that suggested a blunted CAR in cannabis users, it highlights the complexity of the relationship between cannabis use and stress regulation. More long-term studies are needed to establish any cause-and-effect relationships.

If you use cannabis for stress relief, it may be worth considering how it could affect your body’s stress response over time. Monitoring your stress levels and exploring other stress management techniques, such as mindfulness or exercise, could be beneficial.

Source: Oregon State University