Diabetes is a group of metabolic and autoimmune diseases that result in high blood sugar. Type 1 diabetes mellitus, sometimes called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes, occurs when the pancreas is destroyed by the body’s own immune system. The pancreas makes insulin, which is the hormone that converts sugar into energy and helps store sugar for future use. Type 2 diabetes mellitus occurs when insulin is produced but not used properly; this is also called insulin resistance. Patients with Type 1 diabetes require insulin to survive. Type 2 diabetes, which is currently being investigated as a possible autoimmune disease, can be controlled with dietary changes, oral medications, and sometimes insulin. High blood sugar from either type of diabetes can result in severe organ damage, including blindness, kidney damage, nerve damage and cardiovascular disease.
Type 1 diabetes usually results from a genetic predisposition to immune dysfunction combined with an environmental trigger, most commonly a viral infection. Once triggered, the major components of the inflammatory system contribute to pancreatic cell destruction, specifically the cells that produce insulin. We have already learned that the cannabis plant contains numerous anti-inflammatory compounds. Researchers have sought to understand if cannabinoid compounds may prevent and/or delay progression of insulin-dependent diabetes. A number of studies have shown promising results:
The endocannabinoid system is involved with energy metabolism, food intake and energy storage in animals and humans. It appears from research that cannabis users may be at lower risk of developing Type 2 diabetes:
It is important to understand that a dysregulation of the endocannabinoid system that often accompanies obesity (and may be caused by obesity), as explained in Chapter 3, may lead to the development of Type 2 diabetes. There is conflicting research as to whether THC is beneficial to Type 2 diabetics in the long run and further research is needed. However, there are numerous scientific reports that other phytocannabinoids found in cannabis may be beneficial to a person suffering with Type 2 diabetes and its complications:
Of my patients with diabetes, the majority are Type 2 and only a few have Type 1. Most are using cannabis for other chronic medical conditions, including chronic pain, insomnia, anxiety and arthritis. These patients anecdotally report that they have better control of their sugar levels, that they exercise more, sleep better and overall have a sense of well being. For many people, cannabis use helps reduce stress and can promote better choices leading to a healthier lifestyle. I encourage all of my patients to include the use of CBD in their medication regimen, as its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects are very important for prevention of complications from diabetes.