Type 1 diabetes, previously called juvenile or insulin-dependent diabetes, is a long-term condition affecting over 1.7 million adults. The current treatments are too costly or insufficient for some, that’s why researchers continue to seek more effective and affordable alternatives.
One progressive finding is the role of CBD in type I diabetes treatment as it may offer new hope for those struggling with the disease. As interest in this natural compound grows, many are buying marijuana online to access high-quality products conveniently and safely.
Key Takeaways:
- CBD showed effective in the reduction of diabetes development.
- Indica and Indica-dominant strains have lower THC-to-CBD ratios, which have a stronger effect on CB2 to manage inflammation.
- Cannabinoids might help grow nerves in a high-glucose environment for a neuroprotective benefit in diabetic patients.
What is Type I Diabetes?
Ancient physicians named diabetes from the Greek word for “fountain” because patients urinated frequently and “mellitus” from the Greek word for “honey” because their urine attracted ants. Diabetes affects the pancreas, a small gland behind the stomach that induces insulin and digestive enzymes.
Some researchers link diabetes to cellular resistance to insulin and leptin, while others suggest fatty liver caused by excessive sugar intake.
Type 1 diabetes (T1DM) symptoms can appear suddenly and may include:
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Extreme hunger
- Unintentional weight loss
- Irritability or mood changes
- Fatigue and weakness
- Blurry vision
Treatment for type I diabetes includes insulin, caloric intake, monitoring blood sugar, eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and maintaining a healthy weight.
The goal is to maintain blood sugar as close to normal as possible to prevent complications. Keep daytime blood sugar levels between 80 and 130 mg/dL (before meals) and below 180 mg/dL two hours after eating.
Cannabis and Diabetes
People historically used cannabis oil to treat diabetes, with many claiming it lowers blood sugar levels and stabilizes mood changes. No human studies have explored the effects of cannabinoids on diabetes, but the plant’s anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties prompted researchers to look at its possible benefits.
The Jerusalem Studies
In 2008, scholars from Jerusalem examined cannabidiol (CBD), an anti-inflammatory compound that reduces diabetes incidence in young non-obese diabetes-prone (NOD) mice and decreases pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Methodology
- Mice: Researchers divided 11–14 week-old female NOD mice prone to diabetes into three groups: CBD-treated, vehicle-treated, and untreated.
- Cannabidiol Treatment: CBD (hashish) was extracted, purified, and administered intraperitoneally at 5 mg/kg/day for 4 weeks. They monitored the mice until 24 weeks of age.
- Assessment: Measured urine glucose levels weekly, analyzed cytokines from peritoneal macrophages and splenic lymphocytes using ELISA, and examined pancreatic tissue histologically to assess islet integrity.
Results
- CBD-treated mice significantly reduced diabetes development compared to vehicle-treated and untreated mice. After 24 weeks, only 8 out of 25 (32%) CBD-treated mice developed glucosuria, while 18 out of 21 (86%) vehicle-treated mice and all 21 untreated mice (100%) did.
- Cannabidiol treatment reduced pro-inflammatory cytokines IL-6 and IL-12 and increased anti-inflammatory IL-10.
- CBD-treated mice had more intact pancreatic islets (77%) compared to vehicle-treated (13%) and untreated (8%) mice.
CBD reduced diabetes incidence and insulitis in NOD mice by modulating cytokine levels, which promotes a shift from Th1 to Th2 responses and preserves islet integrity. These findings suggest that CBD could treat T1DM by controlling inflammation and autoimmunity.
Supporting Studies
Other animal studies also explored how cannabidiol can help manage diabetes and prevent complications.
Study | Year | Results or Findings |
Edinburgh Laboratory Study | 2009 | Cannabinoids could promote nerve growth in a glucose-rich environment, potentially leading to neuroprotective effects for diabetic patients. |
Polish Study | 2008 | CB1 and CB2 agonists reduce pain sensitivity in a dose-dependent manner. COX-1 inhibitors may enhance the pain-relieving effects of cannabinoids at low doses. |
U.S. Studies from Augusta, Georgia | 2006 | Cannabidiol showed protection against developing diabetic retinopathy in rats. |
East Lansing, Michigan | 2001 | Delta-9-THC can reduce the severity of autoimmune diabetes in mice with the condition. |
What is CBD?
Most studies on diabetes looked into the effects of CBD. Cannabidiol is one of several active compounds in weed. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), this compound is non-psychoactive, so it does not produce a “high.”
The exact mechanism of how this cannabinoid works is not fully understood, but it may influence cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2.
It may also interact with serotonin and opioid receptors and stimulate processes that lower cholesterol and blood sugar levels. It might also affect PPAR gamma activity, which influences intracellular calcium release and certain cellular functions.
Many products contain CBD, but those with other cannabinoids and cannabis components can be more effective. To manage blood sugar or prevent diabetes complications, choose a flower with lower THC-to-CBD ratios, such as Indica or Indica-dominant strains.
Buy Marijuana Online: Product Selection
Cannabis strains—Indica, Sativa, and hybrids—offer a promising complementary approach to diabetes management. Indica strains help with pain relief and sleep improvement, Sativa strains boost energy and mood, and hybrid strains provide balanced symptom management.
If you need to focus on maintaining blood sugar or managing diabetes complications, Indica strains are an excellent choice. Indicas and Indica-heavy strains have lower THC-to-CBD ratios, which activate both CB1 and CB2 receptors, with a greater effect on CB2 compared to Sativa strains.
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Best Ways to Consume Cannabis for Patients with Diabetes Type I
For Type 1 diabetes patients, the best ways to consume cannabis focus on maximizing therapeutic benefits. You can consume this plant in different ways as long as you feel comfortable with the process.
Vaporizing (Inhalation)
Vaporizing cannabis involves heating the plant material to a temperature that releases cannabinoids and terpenes without combustion. This offers a quick onset of effects within minutes, better control over dosage, and immediate symptom relief. Vaporizing is less harsh on the lungs compared to smoking.
Sublingual (Oral Ingestion)
Cannabis oils and tinctures are liquid extracts consumed sublingually (under the tongue) or mixed with basic food and beverages. The effects of oils and tinctures occur gradually, within 15 to 45 minutes, and can last several hours. This method is faster than edible consumption.
Edibles (Oral Ingestion)
Edibles, such as cannabis-infused gummies, chocolates, or baked goods, give a discreet and convenient way to use cannabis. The effects of edibles take longer to manifest, between 30 minutes to 2 hours, but they can last much longer for extended relief. This is great for patients who prefer not to inhale cannabis and are looking for long-lasting effects.
Topicals
Topicals are cannabis-infused creams, balms, or lotions applied directly to the skin. This method is effective for localized relief of pain, inflammation, and muscle tension without any psychoactive effects. Topicals target cannabinoid receptors in the skin to relieve diabetic complications like neuropathy or arthritis.
Can You Buy Weed in Your Area: Legal Weed Questions Answered for Diabetes Patients
You might wonder if you can buy marijuana seeds online or purchase the plant to treat your condition. With cannabis use no longer a taboo topic, you can find answers to more legal weed questions. Many states in the US have laws to legalize recreational marijuana and medical use. The Drug Enforcement Administration, as well as local law enforcement, cannot arrest individuals using weed for recreational or medical reasons if they are in a state that has legalized its use.
Major proposed regulations include age-limiting access to weed. You can buy marijuana, including CBD and THC, online via mail-order weed as long as you are of legal age according to federal law. Age regulations are implemented for child safety, so present a valid ID before purchasing. Order weed online today.
Aside from establishing guidelines on buying weed, many states have discussed growing it. The Agriculture Improvement Act allows you to cultivate up to six plants of weed.
Buying Marijuana Online is a Key
Cannabidiol is transforming type I diabetes treatment with its anti-inflammatory and immune-modulating properties. In animal studies, it can manage complications like neuropathies or retinopathies. While the study findings are encouraging, further clinical trials might allow a full understanding of the safety and efficacy. You can explore this cannabinoid by using safe and quality products like the Indica flower from GetLoud Cannabis.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the dosage for managing type I diabetes?
There is no standardized dosage for treating type I diabetes, as research is still ongoing. Dosages may vary widely, from 5 mg to 100 mg per day. Start with a low dose and increase when needed. Factors you must consider are body weight, metabolism, severity of symptoms, and cannabinoid concentration in the product.
Can microdosing work for diabetes?
Microdosing involves taking a very low substance dose to achieve subtle therapeutic effects without significant side effects. This could mean taking doses as low as 1-2 mg throughout the day to maintain stable levels in the body and avoid potential side effects.
There are no studies on microdosing and diabetes specifically, but marijuana may help manage blood sugar and insulin resistance in type II diabetes. Some studies suggest that it can increase insulin sensitivity and associate its use with lower fasting insulin levels compared to non-users.
How does CBD interact with the endocannabinoid system in diabetes?
CBD integrates with the endocannabinoid system by modulating receptors that influence inflammation, pain, and immune responses. In type I diabetes, CBD’s interaction with the ECS may help reduce autoimmune attacks on pancreatic cells and alleviate inflammation.