The Effect of Marijuana Smoking on Lung Capacity
Research into the actual effects of smoking marijuana on lung function has been very inconsistent. Key findings have included:
One 2012 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association stated, “Occasional and low cumulative marijuana use was not associated with adverse effects on pulmonary function.
However, heavy marijuana smoking for more than 20 joint-years showed an association with a reduction in airflow rate as well as an increase in lung volume and airway resistance.
Different reviews, one of them being the one in the Journal of Thoracic Disease in 2018, concluded that marijuana smoking showed short-term bronchodilation effects, increased lung volumes, and might be associated with respiratory symptoms and chronic bronchitis after chronic long-term use.
It does bear noting that consumption method comes into play here. Smoking marijuana-in the form of joints, bongs, or pipes-exposes the lungs to noxious combustion products such as tar and carbon monoxide. These are offset somewhat by alternatives that include vaporizers, edibles, and tinctures that may minimize respiratory impact.
The Prevalence of Marijuana Use Among Athletes
Despite the possible risks, marijuana use is not an unknown thing among athletes. A study in the 2018 issue of the Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine found that 26% of NCAA student-athletes reported the use of marijuana in the past year. Reasons for such use have ranged from recreational use to medical use, with some athletes using it for mitigating stress, anxiety, or physical discomfort.
Particularly, the World Anti-Doping Agency bans marijuana during competition, whereas leagues like the NBA and NFL have relaxed their policies in recent years by easing on testing and punishment to recognize the shifting cultural attitude and therapeutic benefits.
The Role of Cannabinoids in Exercise and Recovery
While smoking marijuana may indeed pose some risks, research has shown that certain cannabinoids found within the plant could have potential benefits for athletes. Cannabidiol, or CBD-a non-psychoactive compound of marijuana-has grown in popularity owing to possible anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic effects. For pain relief, enhancing recovery, and aiding in sleep, some athletes take the CBD products in oil, topical, or edible forms.
Other studies have investigated the major psychoactive component of cannabis, tetrahydrocannabinol-or more specifically, THC-for its potential effects on exercise. A 2019 study in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise reported that low doses of THC can enhance the pleasure and motivation of exercise. However, further research will be required to understand the full risks and benefits of THC for athletes.
Minimizing Harm to Athletes Who Use Marijuana
If youre an athlete who chooses to use marijuana here are some ways to minimize potential harm to your lungs and performance:
- Try a vaporizer: Vaporizers heat marijuana to a temperature that releases the active compounds but doesn’t burn the product into smoke and tar. This may reduce some of the lung effects.
- Edibles or tinctures: Consuming marijuana through edibles, like Delta 8 Gummies, or tinctures means one does not inhale smoke at all. Be really aware of dosing, though, as effects may be stronger and last much longer.
- Don’t hold the smoke: Many are of the view that holding the smoke of marijuana in your lungs increases the high. Actually, this just deposits more tar. Inhale deeply but exhale within a few seconds.
- Use in moderation: The more one smokes frequently and heavily, the greater the potential damage to one’s lungs. Consider reducing your consumption or using only occasionally.
- Hydrate: Marijuana causes drying of the mouth and dehydration, which can lower performance in sports. Drink plenty of water before and during, and after use.
- Wholesome life: Engage in regular exercise to maintain healthy lungs and an overall healthy lifestyle, including proper nutrition and a good diet, and adequate sleep.
The Role of Education and Awareness
The facts need to be given to the athletes regarding risks and benefits as the stigma around marijuana use continues to evolve. It is open and honest discussions with healthcare providers, coaches, and teammates that assist in enabling responsible use and further reducing harm.
Another important issue is being properly educated on the policy and rules related to marijuana use within their respective sport or organization. Other sanctions include penalties, suspensions, or loss of eligibility. It is important to be well-informed and to make decisions considering health and compliance.
Conclusion
The relationship between marijuana use and athletic performance is complicated. Occasional use may have little effect on lung capacity, while chronic heavy smoking can result in respiratory complaints that could reduce an individual’s performance. Through better information, safer methods of consumption, and attention to overall health and wellbeing, the active athlete who chooses to use marijuana can take steps in the direction of harm reduction. It is worth noting, though, that marijuana is still prohibited under many sports organizations’ policies and may have consequences if detected.
As the cultural and legal landscape of marijuana continues to shift, it is all the more urgent that athletes be allowed to have frank, open discussions of risks and benefits. Marijuana use must be a decision made with great consideration for health goals and policies on such use in a given sport or organization. Promoting education and responsible use must prevail with a view towards a future where athletes can make informed choices that best support their well-being and performance.
