The Cannabis Craze Among Athletes
Cannabis, the once notorious plant, is now gaining new popularity among athletes.
With its legalisation in various US states, many athletes are turning to cannabis for its alleged benefits in pain management and stress relief.
But here’s the kicker: recent research suggests that cannabis might play a role in protecting the brain from injuries caused by repetitive head impacts. Could this be the game changer athletes have been waiting for?
The Science Behind Head Injuries in Sports
Subconcussive Injuries: The Silent Threat
Athletes, especially those in contact sports like soccer and football, are often exposed to repetitive subconcussive head impacts.
These are hits to the head that don’t cause immediate symptoms but can accumulate over time, leading to neurological issues.
The concern over these injuries has grown, especially with the discovery of chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), a degenerative brain condition linked to repeated head injuries.
Cannabis to the Rescue?
The Experiment
A groundbreaking study published on June 16, 2023, in iScience, led by Rachel M. Kalbfell and her team, investigated the effects of cannabis on subconcussive neural injuries.
The study included 43 adult soccer players, divided into two groups: cannabis users (who had been using cannabis at least once a week for the past six months) and non-cannabis users.
The participants were subjected to 20 controlled soccer headings, and the researchers measured oculomotor function (eye movement control) and levels of certain blood biomarkers associated with brain injury.
The Astonishing Findings
The results were eye-opening. The cannabis users showed less impairment in oculomotor function compared to the non-cannabis users. Additionally, the non-cannabis users had increased levels of a blood biomarker called S100B, which is associated with brain inflammation. The cannabis users, on the other hand, did not show this increase.
In simple terms, cannabis users seemed to have a protective shield against the brain changes typically seen after repetitive head impacts.
What Does This Mean for Athletes?
This study suggests that chronic cannabis use might be associated with enhanced brain protection and reduced inflammation following repetitive head impacts.
This could be a game changer for athletes, especially those in contact sports who are at risk of head injuries.
However, it’s important to approach these findings with caution. More research is needed to understand the long-term effects of cannabis use and to determine the optimal dosage and method of consumption for protective effects.
The Final Whistle
As the debate on cannabis use in sports continues, this study adds an exciting twist.
While cannabis might have potential brain-protecting properties, it’s essential for athletes and sports organizations to stay informed and approach cannabis use responsibly.
Remember, while the potential of cannabis as a brain shield is enticing, it’s not a license to throw caution to the wind. The key is responsible use and continued research to unlock the full potential of this intriguing plant in sports.
