Why it is so obvious cannabis users should be taking omega-3s

This information might just improve your brain health, memory, and mood. Learn how omega-3s relate to cannabis and why they are good for cannabis using minds.

To explain why omega-3s can support the brain health of cannabis users, first you need to understand how cannabis works.

Cannabis feels good because of THC. Duh – you probably already knew that.

THC feels good because it activates a receptor called cannabinoid B1 (CB1 for short). Did you know that?

When THC activates the CB1 receptor, it puts the “brakes” on a brain cell (neuron) called GABA. Slowing down GABA feels good because GABA puts the brakes on dopamine. And dopamine feels good.

So, if GABA reigns in dopamine, and GABA is slowed down, that means less GABA equals more dopamine. It’s a double negative.

More THC = less GABA and Less GABA = more dopamine.

And dopamine = 😊

Think of how THC work like a water hose on a hot summer day.

The hose is pinched before reaching a sprinkler kids are playing in on a hot summer day. The water in the hose is dopamine. The pinch in the hose is GABA. THC activating the THC receptor CB1 is like loosening the pinch in the hose. When THC loosens the pinch on the hose, more water (dopamine) is released and…

The sprinkler sprays high in the sky and all the neighborhood children shout with glee!

THC loosens the pinch on the water hose which causes the sprinkler to spray higher so more kids can play.

Okay, so that’s how THC works. Now, let me connect that with omega-3s.

Recap: THC→ activates the THC receptor→ causes less GABA→ causes more dopamine

Prolonged THC use causes a problem in this fun chain of brain events.

Research shows prolonged THC use reduces the number of THC receptors in your brain by 15-20%. Research also shows regular THC use results in THC receptors becoming desensitized. Desensitized THC receptors do not work properly even if something goes into their binding pocket.

Think of the THC receptor like a door lock. THC is like a key. A desensitized receptor is like a door lock that doesn’t work, even if the right key is in the lock.

So, smoking bushels of weed messes up your THC receptors a bit, who cares?

Well, less receptors and receptors that don’t work well explains the three most common cannabis users complaints:

• A bad memory
• A high tolerance
• Brain fog

Go back to our little chain of events from earlier:

THC→THC receptor→ less GABA→more dopamine

If there are less THC receptors in the equation, then there is more GABA (because THC receptors inhibit GABA). And because GABA inhibits dopamine, if there is more GABA then there is less dopamine. Less dopamine means cannabis doesn’t feel as good.

Less THC receptors means you need to use more THC to feel good.

Okay to summarize, THC use reduces the number of working THC receptors available which increases GABA which decreases dopamine which feels blah.

This is where omega-3s come in. To the rescue.

First, you need to understand that omega-3s are natural endo-cannabinoids.

Endo-cannabinoids are molecules that interact with the same brain system as THC.

Endo-cannabinoids bind to the same receptor as THC. They bind with different strengths (THC binds very strongly which is why it feels so good).

THC and omega-3s are like siblings or cousins.

Here is where omega-3s get really interesting for cannabis users.

So earlier we explained how cannabis use reduces the number of THC receptors in your brain by 15-20% and how THC use causes THC receptors to become unresponsive.

Research has found that omega-3s have the opposite effect as THC

omega-3s have been found to INCREASE the number of THC receptors in brains.

Omega-3s have also been found to keep THC receptors working properly. That is, sensitive and responsive.

So, you see, omega-3s have the opposite effect as THC on CB1 THC receptors.

This is why it is so obvious that cannabis users of all people should be taking omega-3s.

Proof?

Health Canada has approved omega-3 fish oil products with enough omega-3s to say their products: “Help support cognitive health and maintain brain function.”

Cognitive health is thinking, memory, using your noodle.

Cannabis use has been found to impair cognitive health aka memory, speed and clarity of thought.

Omega-3s can help balance out your brains endo-cannabinoid system. That’s why you should take them if you use cannabis regularly and care about being smart and healthy.

Omega-3s can help you be the smartest version of your cannabis using self as you can be.

Summary:

THC use is hard on THC receptors.

Omega-3s are good for THC receptors.

Omega-3s become endo-cannabinoids in the body.

If cannabis users want to support their endo-cannabinoid system and overall brain health, taking omega-3s is a good idea.