Cannabis, widely misunderstood and glorified by many, has a darker side that is often overlooked. While it’s frequently lauded for its purported relaxation benefits, the reality is far more complex and detrimental, especially concerning sleep quality.

The Deceptive Allure of Cannabis

Many turn to cannabis hoping for a restful night’s sleep, believing that its soothing effects will translate into better rest. However, scientific research reveals a starkly different picture. Rather than enhancing sleep, cannabis can significantly disrupt your sleep architecture. It might initially make you tired, but the long-term impact on sleep cycles is profoundly negative, often resulting in fragmented and poor-quality sleep.

The Science of Sleep Disruption

Cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which is crucial in regulating sleep. While it may help you fall asleep faster, it reduces the important REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep stage, essential for cognitive functions such as memory and learning. Without sufficient REM sleep, you’ll likely wake up groggy and unrefreshed, even if you’ve spent a long time in bed.

Long-term Consequences of Cannabis Use

Chronic use of cannabis can lead to severe sleep disturbances and dependency. As your body builds tolerance, you’ll need higher doses to achieve the same effects, further exacerbating sleep problems. Over time, this can result in a vicious cycle of dependence and deteriorating sleep quality, undermining overall health and well-being.

In conclusion, the narrative that cannabis is a harmless aid for good sleep is fundamentally flawed. Prevention is indeed the best policy, and advocating for no legalisation based on the detrimental impacts on sleep quality is a stance grounded in scientific evidence and concern for public health.

Source: Medium