Marijuana

Definition

Marijuana is a plant-based substance derived from the Cannabis sativa plant, primarily used for its psychoactive properties due to the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It is often consumed for recreational or medicinal purposes and can have significant effects on mental and physical health, especially during adolescence when the brain is still developing. Understanding marijuana's impact on nutrition and health is crucial, as it can influence dietary habits, weight, and overall well-being during these formative years.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Research shows that marijuana use during adolescence can affect brain development, potentially leading to cognitive impairments and lower academic performance.
2. Marijuana can alter appetite and food choices, leading to increased consumption of unhealthy foods, which may contribute to obesity and related health issues.
3. Frequent use of marijuana during this critical developmental period is associated with a higher risk of developing substance use disorders later in life.
4. The legalization of marijuana in some areas has led to increased access among adolescents, raising concerns about its impact on public health and safety.
5. Marijuana can have both short-term effects, such as impaired memory and coordination, and long-term consequences that may affect mental health, including anxiety and depression.

Review Questions

• How does marijuana use during adolescence impact brain development and cognitive functions?
  • Marijuana use during adolescence can significantly hinder brain development due to the ongoing maturation of neural pathways. The psychoactive compound THC interacts with the brain's endocannabinoid system, which plays a critical role in learning and memory. As a result, regular marijuana use can lead to cognitive impairments such as reduced attention span, memory issues, and overall poorer academic performance.
• In what ways does marijuana influence dietary habits and nutritional health among adolescents?
  • Marijuana often increases appetite—a phenomenon commonly referred to as 'the munchies'—leading adolescents to opt for high-calorie, unhealthy food choices. This shift in dietary habits can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of obesity-related health problems. Additionally, marijuana may alter an individual's perception of hunger and satiety cues, further complicating healthy eating behaviors during a critical growth period.
• Evaluate the implications of increased marijuana accessibility for adolescents in regions where it has been legalized.
  • The legalization of marijuana has led to greater accessibility for adolescents, which raises significant public health concerns. With easier access, there's a heightened risk of increased consumption among young people, potentially resulting in more pronounced negative effects on brain development and mental health. Moreover, the normalization of marijuana use may foster an environment where substance use disorders become more prevalent. This situation necessitates targeted interventions and education aimed at mitigating these risks among youth populations.

Related terms

Cannabinoids: Chemical compounds found in marijuana that interact with the body's endocannabinoid system, influencing various physiological processes.

Adolescence: The developmental stage between puberty and adulthood, marked by significant physical, emotional, and social changes.

Substance Use Disorder: A condition characterized by an individual's inability to control their use of a substance, leading to negative consequences in their life.