by Dr. Dana Lillestol
Introduction
The current state of blood sugar management, particularly diabetes, is in jeopardy. Unfortunately, a record number of individuals—across all ages, races, and continents—are experiencing elevated blood sugar levels. This shared physical reality has long-term consequences, impacting individuals’ ability to reach their full potential and contribute uniquely to their communities and the world.
When an individual develops diabetes, their blood glucose (or blood sugar) levels rise above normal ranges. Managing this condition requires consistent attention to diet, physical activity, and medication adherence. Unfortunately, diabetes affects multiple organs, including the brain, heart, skin, kidneys, nerves, and even the feet and ears. Of particular concern is the alarming rise in obesity, which serves as a pathway to developing diabetes.
The Prevalence and Incidence of Diabetes
In the United States, approximately 38.4 million individuals have diabetes, accounting for 11.6% of the population. Of this number, 29.7 million individuals have been diagnosed, while 8.7 million remain undiagnosed. Additionally, 97.6 million Americans are prediabetic, representing 38% of the adult population, with 8 out of 10 adults unaware of their condition.
Diabetes in Seniors
Among Americans aged 65 and older, 16.5 million individuals (29.2%) have diabetes, diagnosed or undiagnosed. Many seniors lead sedentary lifestyles and find little oral satisfaction beyond food, predisposing them to diabetes.
Diabetes in Children and Adolescents
Children and adolescents under 20 years old are also a growing concern, with 352,000 young individuals diagnosed. From 2017 to 2018, the annual incidence of diagnosed Type 1 diabetes in youth was 18,200, while Type 2 diabetes accounted for 5,300 cases.
- Type 1 Diabetes: An autoimmune disorder in which the pancreas produces little or no insulin. It often runs in families and requires daily insulin.
- Type 2 Diabetes: Far more common, Type 2 diabetes accounts for 90-95% of cases in adults and is largely linked to lifestyle factors such as diet, stress, and physical inactivity.
The Physical Effects of Diabetes
The medical cost for individuals diagnosed with diabetes is more than double that of individuals without diabetes. In 2022, the total cost of diabetes reached $412 billion.
If left untreated, diabetes can damage the heart, blood vessels, nerves, and other organs, leading to:
- Blindness
- Kidney failure
- Heart attacks
- Strokes
- Lower limb amputation
In 2021, diabetes was the eighth leading cause of death in the United States, with 103,294 death certificates citing it as the primary cause. Life expectancy for individuals with diabetes is approximately 7.5 years shorter than for nondiabetics.
A novel approach targeting strategic changes in blood sugar management is critical—this includes exploring natural and alternative therapies such as plant medicine or cannabis.
Diabetes and Cannabis
In the U.S., 38 states and three out of four territories, along with the District of Columbia, allow medical cannabis. Twenty-four states have also legalized recreational cannabis, increasing accessibility. Both public interest and medical professional curiosity in cannabis’ potential health benefits are growing, supported by emerging research.
Possible Benefits of Cannabis for Diabetes
Studies suggest that cannabis use among diabetic patients is associated with:
- Lower fasting insulin levels
- Decreased insulin resistance
- Reduced waist circumference
Other potential benefits include:
- Blood sugar regulation
- Protection from retinopathy (eye damage)
- Weight management
- Pain relief for neuropathy
- Anti-inflammatory effects
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and Diabetes
The American Alliance for Medical Cannabis suggests several benefits of THC for diabetics, including:
- Stabilizing blood sugar levels
- Reducing arterial inflammation
- Lowering neuropathic pain
- Dilating blood vessels to reduce blood pressure
- Relieving muscle spasms and gastrointestinal cramps
Additionally, studies indicate THC may help address obesity, a significant risk factor for diabetes. For example, a 2016 study found that individuals with Type 2 diabetes who were not taking insulin experienced:
- Significant decreases in fasting blood sugar
- Improved insulin secretion
- Elevated levels of adiponectin (a protein that regulates blood sugar)
Cannabidiol (CBD) and Diabetes
CBD, the non-psychoactive component of cannabis, shows promise in managing diabetes, though further research is needed. A 2016 study revealed that CBD helped:
- Decrease resistin (a hormone promoting insulin resistance)
- Stimulate glucose-dependent insulinotropic peptide (a hormone triggering insulin release)
CBD may also support:
- Sleep regulation: Essential for blood sugar control and reducing complications
- Chronic pain relief: Effective against inflammation and improving quality of life
- Blood pressure management: Shown to lower blood pressure in healthy individuals
It’s essential for patients considering cannabis or CBD supplementation to maintain transparency with their healthcare providers.
Conclusion
One in eight people globally is living with obesity, a key risk factor for diabetes. Furthermore, 31% of adults report insufficient physical activity, contributing to obesity and diabetes.
The International Diabetes Federation predicts a 50% increase in global diabetes cases, rising from 366 million in 2011 to 550 million by 2030. This is a public health crisis requiring increased awareness, education, and preventive strategies.
Natural and alternative therapies, like cannabis, may offer a pathway to improved blood sugar management and a better quality of life. However, personal responsibility, coupled with professional guidance, remains critical.
About “Life Is Chill”
At Life Is Chill, we’ve crafted a product line tailored to meet the needs of diabetics. Our offerings are virtually sugar-free, with some products containing no added sugar, providing healthier alternatives for managing blood sugar levels.
