{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/diabetes/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2772-markdown","title":"How THCV May Help With Parkinson’s, Diabetes & Osteoporosis","slug":"how-thcv-may-help-with-parkinsons-diabetes-and-osteoporosis","content":"There are over 100 cannabinoids in the cannabis plant—of which tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the most well studied. But as we learn more about marijuana, interest in other cannabinoids, like tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), is on the rise.\n\nRecently, THCV has been garnering some interest due to its reported ability to suppress appetite and lessen some of THC’s psychoactive effects. But the cannabinoid may be able to do more than that: THCV’s ability to influence the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system may make it useful in the treatment of certain conditions like:\n\n* Parkinson’s disease\n* Obesity and type 2 diabetes \n* Osteoporosis\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### How THCV Can Affect the Endocannabinoid System \n\nSimilar to your body’s naturally occurring endocannabinoids, phytocannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant work on the [endocannabinoid system](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5751cbd970410e000b00003a/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system), a network of receptors located throughout the body. Currently, we know of two receptors in this system: CB1 and CB2.\n\nCB1 is most prevalent in the brain and spinal cord, though it’s also found throughout the body. CB2 is often found in immune cells, the gastrointestinal system and as we continue to learn more, the skeletal system. Research on the CB2 receptor suggests that influencing it with medications could [regulate inflammation throughout the body](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5075023/).\n\nJust as endocannabinoids attach to the CB1 and CB2 receptors, the compounds in cannabis— THC, CBD and THCV—are also able to attach to or influence these receptors. Much of the research surrounding THCV says that in the right amounts, [it’s a CB1 antagonist and a CB2 agonist](https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1038/sj.bjp.0706414).\n\nIn other words, THCV can attach to the CB1 receptor and keep other molecules from binding to it; and it can attach to the CB2 receptor to bring about certain effects. Much of THCV’s therapeutic potential relies on these abilities. \n\nRELATED: [PSYCHOACTIVE THCV: THE CANNABINOID THAT KILLS YOUR APPETITE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8db389f24d1300077ccb5a/psychoactive-thcv-the-cannabinoid-that-kills-your-appetite)\n\n### THCV May Protect Brain Cells & Reduce Inflammation in Parkinson’s Disease\n\nIn Parkinson’s disease, the body doesn’t make enough dopamine, a chemical that plays a role in:\n\n* mood\n* behavior\n* sleep\n* cognition\n\nStudies have shown that [the endocannabinoid system is out of balance in those with this disorder](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a2f25ba100a820006562ebe/how-parkinsons-disease-affects-the-endocannabinoid-system). In late-stage Parkinson’s, where characteristic symptoms like tremors and rigidity appear, there’s an increase in CB1 receptor density and activity.\n\nIn addition, inflammation in the brain can further worsen the disease, which is why researchers think that [influencing the CB2 receptor](https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0278584615000664), which plays a role in our body’s inflammatory response, could help slow or even reverse the disease. \n\nGiven what researchers know about CB1 overactivity in Parkinson’s patients coupled with CB2’s ability to alleviate inflammation, THCV seems like a good therapeutic fit: It can stop substances from binding to CB1 and reduce overactivity. It can also activate CB2 and maybe even ease inflammation.\n\nIn a study published in 2016 in the _British Journal of Pharmacology_, scientists tested the effects of THCV in rats with Parkinson’s disease. They found that [the cannabinoid improved motor function and had a protective effect on brain cells](https://bpspubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1476-5381.2011.01278.x). \n\nThey hypothesized that these effects were due to THCV’s antioxidant properties and its ability to attach to CB2. Overall, with more research they concluded that THCV could be useful in slowing progression and reducing symptoms of Parkinson’s.\n\n### THCV May Help Diabetics Control Their Blood Sugar Levels  \n\nInsulin is a hormone that controls the amount of glucose, a simple sugar, that’s in your blood. WIth type 2 diabetes, the body either doesn’t respond properly to insulin, or it doesn’t make enough of it. This leads to high levels of glucose in the blood, also known as high blood sugar. There’s no definitive cause for type 2 diabetes, but contributing factors may include obesity and lack of exercise.\n\nA 2013 study on obese mice found that [THCV could control blood sugar and make the body properly respond to insulin](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3671751/). The study’s researchers speculate that the cannabinoid was able to do this by binding to CB1 receptors. That said, they say more research is needed because there could be other factors at play. \n\n[THC and CBD both show potential in helping those with type 2 diabetes manage their blood sugar levels](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ae8fa71049b4f000a64e944/how-marijuana-may-help-manage-diabetes-onset-and-severity). However, THCV may show the most promise: It actually went through a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with good results. In the study, which was published in _Emerging Technologies and Therapeutics_, researchers found [THCV reduced glucose levels](http://care.diabetesjournals.org/content/39/10/1777), while also improving the function of beta-cells, which make the hormone insulin.\n\n### THCV May Reduce Bone Loss  \n\nOsteoporosis is a disease that occurs when your body makes too little bone tissue, loses too much bone mass, or both. Though there are no studies directly showing that THCV can help with osteoporosis, research on the CB2 receptor suggests that THCV may have therapeutic potential. \n\nCB2 has been found on cells that make bone tissue and also on cells that reabsorb bone, prompting scientists to speculate that CB2 regulates bone mass. So far, studies on both mice and humans seem to say that this is true. \n\nMice who are deficient in CB2 receptors tend to lose bone tissue more quickly than their healthy counterparts do. And in humans, researchers have looked at variations in the gene that codes for the CB2 receptor. They found that people with two particular variations in this gene were more likely to have osteoporosis. \n\nThough we still don’t fully understand the role of the CB2 receptor in bone health, substances that attach to it may help those with osteoporosis. Indeed, researchers have already tested compounds that have an affinity for the receptor, and they’ve found that these substances can reduce bone loss. Since THCV can also attach to CB2, this suggests that it may also have similar benefits.\n\nThough much remains to be studied, it’s clear that THCV’s ability to bind to CB2 and block substances from attaching to CB1 can have applications to a number of diseases. \n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/924bea8743e2c4561dbf159ff820a55b/14b42/29e641884576227fb5a479783c04bcad.jpg","srcSet":"/static/924bea8743e2c4561dbf159ff820a55b/f836f/29e641884576227fb5a479783c04bcad.jpg 200w,\n/static/924bea8743e2c4561dbf159ff820a55b/2244e/29e641884576227fb5a479783c04bcad.jpg 400w,\n/static/924bea8743e2c4561dbf159ff820a55b/14b42/29e641884576227fb5a479783c04bcad.jpg 800w,\n/static/924bea8743e2c4561dbf159ff820a55b/95ca4/29e641884576227fb5a479783c04bcad.jpg 1137w","srcWebp":"/static/924bea8743e2c4561dbf159ff820a55b/58556/29e641884576227fb5a479783c04bcad.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/924bea8743e2c4561dbf159ff820a55b/61e93/29e641884576227fb5a479783c04bcad.webp 200w,\n/static/924bea8743e2c4561dbf159ff820a55b/1f5c5/29e641884576227fb5a479783c04bcad.webp 400w,\n/static/924bea8743e2c4561dbf159ff820a55b/58556/29e641884576227fb5a479783c04bcad.webp 800w,\n/static/924bea8743e2c4561dbf159ff820a55b/98a5d/29e641884576227fb5a479783c04bcad.webp 1137w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2680-markdown","title":"How Marijuana May Help Manage Diabetes Onset & Severity","slug":"how-marijuana-may-help-manage-diabetes-onset-and-severity","content":"Diabetes is a prevalent condition—approximately 9.4% of the U.S. population has been diagnosed with this disease. Controlling glucose level is key to managing diabetes. However, even with the help of medications and a healthy diet, some patients still have a hard time keeping glucose levels in check. Anecdotal reports from diabetes patients—and even one clinical study to date—suggest that cannabis can help patients in this matter.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en) \n\n### What Is Diabetes?\n\nWhen you eat or drink something, your body breaks down parts of your food into a simple sugar called glucose. This glucose moves via your blood to various places in the body, where it’s used as an energy source to help you carry out everyday activities. Diabetes arises when your body is unable to properly regulate the amount of glucose that’s in your blood, leading to what’s called high blood sugar.  \n\nInsulin is a hormone that’s responsible for controlling glucose levels in your blood—it’s always being released in small amounts by the pancreas. When your blood sugar is high, insulin signals for glucose to be pushed into cells; when your blood sugar level drops, your body signals for you to eat to help bring them back up.\n\nIn folks with type 1 diabetes, the cells—called beta-cells—that make insulin in the body are attacked by the immune system. Without insulin, the body can’t make proper use of glucose, and thus can’t work properly; this leads to common type 1 diabetes symptoms like fatigue, excessive thirst and nausea. \n\nType 1 diabetics must use insulin injections to manage their blood sugar. We’re not sure what causes this autoimmune dysfunction, but some theorize that type 1 diabetes may be due to:\n\n* Genetics\n* Environmental factors\n* Chemical triggers\n\nIn type 2 diabetes, which is much more common, the body makes insulin, but it either doesn’t respond to the hormone, or it doesn’t make enough of it. There’s no definitive cause for this type of diabetes, but obesity and lack of exercise are strongly considered to play a role.\n\nNew research by scientists at Lund University in Sweden suggests that [type 2 diabetes is actually four different “clusters” of the same disease](https://www.livescience.com/61917-diabetes-five-types.html). However, since this study is still new, widespread acceptance of this classification is still pending. \n\nType 2 diabetes can be managed with proper diet and exercise, though some folks may also have to take medications to help them control their blood sugar levels. \n\n### Diabetes & the Role the Endocannabinoid System Plays\n\nAt this point, most of us familiar with cannabis know a little about the [endocannabinoid system](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5751cbd970410e000b00003a/what-is-the-endocannabinoid-system) (ECS)—the network of receptors located throughout the body that regulates essential life processes, like eating and sleeping. The most well-studied receptors in this system are CB1, CB2 and TRPV1. \n\nYour body makes substances called endocannabinoids that attach to these receptors. Cannabis, likewise, makes substances called phytocannabinoids that can also attach to or influence ECS receptors. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) are the cannabis plant’s most well-known phytocannabinoids, but interest is also rising in other phytocannabinoids such as tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV).\n\nRELATED: [PSYCHOACTIVE THCV: THE CANNABINOID THAT KILLS YOUR APPETITE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8db389f24d1300077ccb5a/psychoactive-thcv-the-cannabinoid-that-kills-your-appetite)\n\nGiven that the ECS is so highly involved in the immune response and appetite, it should come as no surprise that it likely plays a role in diabetes. Research indicates that [obese women tend to have an imbalance in their ECS](https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/d7f6/e16dc5b9537fa78388a4fc7cb6d636bea2df.pdf). (Remember that obesity greatly increases your chances of developing type 2 diabetes.) These women tend to have:\n\n* More endocannabinoids circulating in their blood\n* Fewer CB1 receptors in their peripheral nervous system\n* Less of an enzyme that’s responsible for breaking down endocannabinoids in the body \n\nWe also know that activation of CB1 receptors increases appetite and promotes weight gain. This is one of the reasons why [cannabis is known for making you hungry](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ab1e34bf24d1300077ccb94/the-science-behind-how-cannabis-can-boost-your-appetite): When you consume cannabis, THC attaches to these receptors, leading to the “munchies.” Because of this, it’s thought that substances that block attachment sites on CB1 (like THCV) could be useful in managing as well as preventing diabetes. \n\nMoreover, studies also indicate that the ECS could influence beta-cells—the cells in the pancreas that produce the all-important insulin. That said, the extent of the ECS’s role in this context is still up for debate. \n\nSo, given what we know, could manipulating this system by adding phytocannabinoids from cannabis have a positive effect on both type 1 and type 2 diabetes? \n\n### Cannabis May Have Beneficial Effects in Type 1 Diabetes Patients\n\nFew studies have addressed the use of cannabis for type 1 diabetes, but those that have been done are encouraging. Researchers have studied the effects of both THC and CBD in mice with diabetes that arises from an autoimmune dysfunction.  \n\nScientists found that [THC could lessen the severity of the body’s immune response](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11357882); it was able to reduce both elevated glucose levels and insulin loss in mice.\n\nIn studies involving CBD, researchers found that the phytocannabinoid could both [stop the onset](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17714746) and [lower the incidence of](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16698671) autoimmune-induced diabetes. Another study also found that [CBD could reduce inflammation in the pancreas](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27767974)—the organ where insulin is made.  \n\n### Cannabis May Help Folks With Type 2 Diabetes Better Metabolize Carbohydrates\n\nIn contrast with type 1 diabetes, much more research has been done on type 2 diabetes and cannabis. A few studies have shown that [cannabis consumers are less likely to be obese](https://academic.oup.com/aje/article/174/8/929/155851), have a lower body-mass index and overall are [less likely to get diabetes](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27747490)—even when controlling for factors like exercise, age and sociodemographics. \n\nThough we still don’t know the mechanism behind this action, cannabis seems to allow for better metabolization of carbohydrates. In one study published in the _American Journal of Medicine_, [current marijuana use was associated with 16% lower insulin levels](https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/e929/11164cce4d520d20be733a258e6803a370b1.pd). Insulin levels are a measure of insulin resistance; high levels are a sign that the body isn’t using insulin properly and often indicate prediabetes. \n\n### THCV, Not CBD, May Help Reduce Glucose Levels in Type 2 Diabetics\n\nThese studies have indicated that there’s a promising link between cannabis use and a decreased incidence of diabetes, so much so that there’s actually clinical research on the matter. A recent randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial published in _Emerging Technologies and Therapeutics_ studied the use of CBD and THCV on patients with type 2 diabetes. \n\nResearchers found that THCV alone reduced glucose levels, while also improving the function of beta-cells, which make the hormone insulin. \n\nThough there’s been much interest surrounding THCV as an appetite suppressant and weight-loss tool, this study didn’t find that THCV helped patients lose weight. This doesn’t mean that the phytocannabinoid is devoid of these effects, but that perhaps the amount given wasn’t sufficient enough, says [Dr. Perry Solomon](https://www.hellomd.com/people/54cc02df6465320003000000/Perry%20Solomon,%20MD), HelloMD’s chief medical officer.\n\nConversely, the researchers found that CBD had no effect on glucose levels—in spite of previous research that suggested it could. To this, Dr. Solomon again noted that dosing could be a factor. \n\n“In this study, the amount of CBD used was 200mg a day. There’s some suggestion in the literature that higher doses are needed to have an effect on blood glucose levels,” he says. \n\nOverall, both CBD and THCV were well-tolerated by the test subjects, with no side effects noted. \n\n“There will be further research in using THCV with diabetics,” says Dr. Solomon. “Whether it will be shown that THCV can be used as a dietary aid remains to be seen in other studies.” \n\nStudies on cannabis and its effect on blood sugar are promising, and cannabis entrepreneurs are taking note. The previously mentioned study was conducted by GW Pharmaceuticals, a company that’s hoping to use cannabis to develop a drug that’ll reduce the need for insulin injections. With increased urbanization across the globe, the incidence of diabetes will likely rise in the years to come, making this condition a public health concern—and making diabetes medications all the more necessary. \n\nPhoto credit: [Ana-Maria Nichita](https://unsplash.com/@anamarianct)\n\n If you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/14b42/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/f836f/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.jpg 200w,\n/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/2244e/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.jpg 400w,\n/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/14b42/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.jpg 800w,\n/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/47498/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/0e329/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.jpg 1600w,\n/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/5ee98/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.jpg 2583w","srcWebp":"/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/58556/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/61e93/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.webp 200w,\n/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/1f5c5/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.webp 400w,\n/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/58556/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.webp 800w,\n/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/99238/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.webp 1200w,\n/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/7c22d/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.webp 1600w,\n/static/f6ac437183d3ab3b689935e1f8ef7d51/11c87/60cdefdd16ad04dc0298a4e58f31d8ee.webp 2583w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2268-markdown","title":"4 Helpful CBD Products to Add to Your Daily Routine","slug":"4-helpful-cbd-products-to-add-to-your-daily-routine","content":"Chances are you’ve heard of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. But another piece of the cannabis puzzle is having a moment—cannabidiol (CBD). CBD is the therapeutic, non-psychoactive compound that has neuroprotective properties. It’s not only been shown to help ease pain, reduce anxiety and depression, but [CBD also appears to manage a number of chronic conditions](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56c52e887c6109000800009a/cbd-cannabidiol-the-medicine-of-the-future) including cancer, diabetes and arthritis. It works to balance the endocannabinoid system, which is responsible for regulating a number of important bodily functions like memory, immune function, appetite, sleep, mood and motor control. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nCBD-dominant products are great for people who don’t want to feel high—many people microdose with a CBD-dominant medicine during the day to manage their condition while still being able to take care of their daily responsibilities. \n\nFolks used to consuming THC-dominant cannabis might not think they have much use for products high in CBD, but you don’t have to have a pressing medical condition in order to benefit from all of the healing effects of the compound. \n\nWhatever your situation, check out these products and see how they might be able to fit into your normal routine. \n\nRELATED: [DIY RECIPE: CBD-INFUSED LEMONADE SPRITZERS WITH BASIL](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5994e65504d088060b25e2b9/diy-recipe-cbd-infused-lemonade-spritzers-with-basill)\n\n**Lord Jones Pain & Wellness Pure CBD Lotion**\nAn infused topical may be just what you need if you suffer from chronic pain. It can be used to:\n\n* help soothe achy feet at the end of a long day.\n* reduce painful inflammation in swollen joints.\n* ease tight, sore muscles.\n\nEach bottle of this soothing lotion comes packed with 100 mg of CBD and no THC. Each pump measures out 2 mg of CBD so you can easily keep track of your exact dosage.
\n\n**Emerald Alchemy 20:1 CBD Tincture**\nA tincture is cannabis-infused alcohol that can be taken alone sublingually (under the tongue); eaten by adding to foods such as sauces, soups and dressings; or imbibed when added to juices or teas.\n\nEmerald Alchemy’s high CBD tincture can:\n\n* take the edge off a stressful day.\n* help with the frustrating restlessness of insomnia.\n* work to relieve anxiety.\n\nEach dropper full contains 20 mg of CBD and 1 mg of THC, so there will be almost no psychoactive effects, but you’ll still benefit from the powerful combination of both healing compounds working together.  \n\n**[Bloom Farms](https://www.hellomd.com/biz/57730c61e878f80007000026/bloom-farms) ACDC Cartridge**\nVaping is a quick and discreet way to medicate whether you’re at home or out and about. [Bloom Farms ACDC vape pen](http://getbloomfarms.com/willits-acdc-3-1/) uses ACDC, a highly therapeutic strain that’s an effective mood booster without any psychoactive effects. This balancing strain is good for daily use and won’t leave you feeling drained or low on energy after a few puffs. It’s also good for:\n\n* pain\n* anxiety\n* depression\n* chronic stress\n* tension\n\n**The Venice Cookie Company Sugar-Free CBD Zinger**\nIf you’re trying to cut down on sugar, clean up your eating habits or just being more conscious about the ingredients in your cannabis-infused treats, this vegan cookie is a sensible choice that won’t make you miss dairy at all. It’s soft, chewy and full of flavor from lemon, ginger and turmeric, a spice that’s also known for its anti-inflammatory benefits.\n\nA whole cookie has 100 mg of CBD and 15 mg of THC. The suggested dosage is about 1/10 of a wedge of the cookie which has 10 mg of CBD and 1 to 2 g of THC. As with all edibles, it’s best to start with the lowest dosage, wait at least two hours to see how you feel and then have another small piece. Repeat this process until you achieve your desired experience and then save the rest for next time. \n\nPhoto credit: [kate fisher](https://www.flickr.com/photos/fisherkate/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAAPABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAFwAAAwEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAMEAv/EABUBAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAC/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAFWoW1FAkP/xAAaEAACAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIQERIi/9oACAEBAAEFAlWBTRyzU//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASAf/aAAgBAwEBPwGU6//EABYRAQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAASAf/aAAgBAgEBPwG8W//EABoQAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAyAQIQQpH/2gAIAQEABj8Czt0aw0n/xAAbEAADAAIDAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREhMUFxkf/aAAgBAQABPyFEjiUgd34CehXYryj/AP/aAAwDAQACAAMAAAAQUN//xAAVEQEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQEf/aAAgBAwEBPxCi/8QAFREBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABH/2gAIAQIBAT8QEP/EABsQAQACAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAIRExUWHw/9oACAEBAAE/EFMjctsY5PAgVi/O4S5w6ikQHVz/2Q==","aspectRatio":1.36986301369863,"src":"/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/14b42/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.jpg","srcSet":"/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/f836f/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.jpg 200w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/2244e/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.jpg 400w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/14b42/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.jpg 800w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/9842e/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.jpg 900w","srcWebp":"/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/58556/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/61e93/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.webp 200w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/1f5c5/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.webp 400w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/58556/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.webp 800w,\n/static/015c6487abcfb748b3a9e449a1286db6/210c1/db4654b6ca4a56ecf26ee22ccd60d1fa.webp 900w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1952-markdown","title":"Diabetes Induced Peripheral Vascular Disease and Medical Marijuana","slug":"diabetes-induced-peripheral-vascular-disease-and-medical-marijuana","content":"Almost 30 million people in the United States - about 10 percent of the\r\npopulation - suffers from diabetes and its related ailments.\r\nUnfortunately, two-thirds of diabetes patients will die due to\r\ncomplications from the disease, but for people with diabetes who also\r\nhave peripheral vascular disease, some hope is on the horizon. Studies\r\nnow show that the use of medical marijuana may be able to slow down the\r\nprogression of vascular damage and prolong life.\r\n\r\nPeripheral Vascular Disease\r\n---------------------------\r\n\r\nThe build up of fatty materials in arteries over time can result in\r\nvascular disease. This accumulation of fats, called atherosclerosis,\r\nrestricts important blood flow throughout the body. Atherosclerosis is a\r\nspecific type of arteriosclerosis, referring to the hardening of\r\narteries due to that fatty build up. This can be a big threat to\r\ndiabetes patients. People with diabetes may already experience issues\r\nwith weakened blood vessels, as well have fatty deposits that build\r\nfaster than in non-diabetics. As a result, peripheral vascular disease\r\nmay hit diabetics sooner, faster and with more deadly results than\r\nexperienced by non-diabetics. Early and continued intervention is\r\nimportant to both prolong life and enhance quality of life.\r\n\r\nMedical Marijuana, Inflammation, and PVD\r\n----------------------------------------\r\n\r\nWhile medical marijuana cannot reverse peripheral vascular disease, it\r\nmay be of significant value to diabetes patients for another reason:\r\ninflammation reduction. With the progression of peripheral vascular\r\ndisease through increasingly blocked - or hardened - arteries,\r\ninflammation increases around blood vessels, and eventually throughout\r\nthe body. However, in a recent report from the [ETH Zurich/Swiss Federal\r\nInstitute of\r\nTechnology](http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2008/07/080720222549.htm),\r\nthe potential for inflammation reduction through medical cannabis was\r\nmore fully explored.\r\n\r\nCannabis and Central Nervous System Receptors\r\n---------------------------------------------\r\n\r\nCannabis is composed of more than 450 different properties, several of\r\nwhich interact with two key receptors in the human body: CB1 and CB2. It\r\nis the latter receptor that helps to control how a body reacts to\r\nconditions that may result in inflammation. When cannabis and CB2\r\ninteract, less inflammatory signals are the result. That means that for\r\na variety of ailments that lead to inflammation, including\r\narteriosclerosis, marijuana may be of significant benefit.\r\n\r\nContinued Benefits\r\n------------------\r\n\r\nMany other peripheral diseases that impact diabetes patients also\r\ninclude a component of inflammation, such as glaucoma and neuropathy.\r\nFrom prolonged life to improved vision and decreased pain levels, the\r\nuse of medical marijuana can prove beneficial for many diabetics.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/shuttercat7/544444923/in/photolist-Q7qvr-2Rbk9p-7vpcjf-aEUDfQ-eekjar-3C3Nd3-9kVf2j-3C1M5V-hyE2be-nTuzsj-6ZLiPR-sq5j76-6vRntt-5v8NL8-7GgvS9-7GcA3r-7GczRr-eH7QRg-9kV6dU-eH7RnX-3C6AAG-7LNKnN-wJCrBJ-wLVPkr-3C2rUT-ejYTLC-3BYskv-3MzDQ-9zPHvt-rtginM-JVzrc-jcJjCH-axKi8Q-7mijMB-oPJukA-L6Gwo-Dh8c6-8SQ8BL-9kSbEZ-L6GvG-hx3eZ8-3C6AnJ-5cQbvE-4bAaVX-CDq9F-yW9N7-gPy47D-7ahfHc-cL5nhb-7xrYim)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/14b42/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/f836f/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.jpg 200w,\n/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/2244e/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.jpg 400w,\n/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/14b42/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.jpg 800w,\n/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/47498/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.jpg 1200w,\n/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/54ac5/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.jpg 1365w","srcWebp":"/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/58556/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/61e93/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.webp 200w,\n/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/1f5c5/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.webp 400w,\n/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/58556/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.webp 800w,\n/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/99238/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.webp 1200w,\n/static/8b955e40a8d3dfc4e83db12b84323b92/5e0b8/435b76ceca6b693cee5429b6f9e2c2a3.webp 1365w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1895-markdown","title":"A Former DEA Agent’s Journey: Kicking Hypertension Using Medical Marijuana","slug":"a-former-dea-agents-journey-kicking-hypertension-using-medical-marijuana","content":"Steve Schenck comes from a world where marijuana has always been on his radar. Steve grew up in Berkley during the 60s and 70s, where marijuana was just a part of daily life. His parents smoked when he was growing up and he saw many people around him use marijuana recreationally. Steve was able to get a perspective on how marijuana effected different people from a young age.  His personal experiences with cannabis led to further self education as he entered the Drug Enforcement Administration as an agent.  Steve feels that being a DEA agent gave him even more perspective on marijuana, but he prides himself on never making a marijuana arrest.  He saw that marijuana did not have the same negative effects as hard drugs, like meth or heroin.  \r\n\r\nWhen his doctor began prescribing him a plethora of drugs for his high blood pressure and diabetes without any positive effects, Steve turned towards medical marijuana as an alternative medication. Steve is open with his doctor about his medical marijuana usage, which has allowed him to notice other changes he’s experienced throughout the process. Not only has it improved his symptoms, but he has seen a drop in blood pressure and has had an easier time falling asleep.  He eats part of an edible before bed and he is able to sleep soundly throughout the night, without any negative effects that come from traditional sleep medication.  \r\n\r\nSteve knew he wanted to try to use medical marijuana to help with his high blood pressure and diabetes, but he made sure he was educated before starting the process.  Steve said an important step in his process was finding the right dispensary.  His tips for finding the right place for yourself?\r\n\r\n>“Make sure you find the right people who can offer you a high quality product.  If you ever feel uncomfortable when you walk in to a dispensary, leave. Finding the right people is crucial.”\r\n\r\nAside from a trusted dispensary, Steve recommends people start slow when trying medical marijuana.  There are times when he has taken too much of an edible because it is not always easy to judge how much you are getting in a particular product or how it will effect you.  He advises that starting slow can help decrease the risks of any unintended side effects. \r\n\r\nThough Steve is very open with his friends, family, and medical advisors about his medical marijuana usage, he tends to stick to discreet methods of administration for his medication due to his 3 year old daughter.  Steve prefers smoking, but often uses edibles because they are more subtle than smoking. \r\nSteve wants to see more research from the industry in the future, \r\n\r\n>“Congress has blocked all research and the industry is currently all over the place.  In some states its legal or medically allowed and in some states it is just illegal! The US was responsible for lobbying the UN to make cannabis illegal world-wide.  This is not a US issue, legalization has to become a world-wide goal.” \r\n\r\nSteve thinks research will help discredit the critics of medical marijuana, as well. He thinks people who perpetuate stigmas do not have knowledge of the products and of the industry.  He believes that if people really look at the results of medical marijuana users, they will see the efficacy of it as a medication. \r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/dlee13/8592121628/in/photolist-e6fSq5-9y7xju-5WBMTa-FqF9-foQYT8-r39qxA-eG35Rj-6usKaL-9y7xLf-9y7xBY-9RPDxM-9y4zui-e2Bhd6-aTZSPn-egZVP3-9y7xod-c5ahE3-22rMwT-pvxGwd-iH98pX-fANrs-9igHn7-4XJsbd-5tFwKC-9sfB6H-nvWogX-8aSLdN-fJBFfk-9y4zh6-4CffYr-ncrvi5-4FZGHv-46uZse-4GXcBN-5bCBek-4D8JPo-r1m7sH-jvyUsP-2SmfSo-S4FHV-wJqthk-9y7xQ5-dACY6c-4xrNah-9y4zjZ-9y4zwv-c5ahA1-9y7xE7-9nUs9q-nahPmF)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/14b42/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/f836f/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.jpg 200w,\n/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/2244e/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.jpg 400w,\n/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/14b42/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.jpg 800w,\n/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/47498/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.jpg 1200w,\n/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/a6974/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.jpg 1536w","srcWebp":"/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/58556/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/61e93/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.webp 200w,\n/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/1f5c5/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.webp 400w,\n/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/58556/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.webp 800w,\n/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/99238/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.webp 1200w,\n/static/c8b28bcba5d18aaeee7e1810d1f4e230/d5052/c11806ab38109b6ab93cf3f15b1b42f3.webp 1536w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1872-markdown","title":"Clinical Study Shows Medical Marijuana is Promising For Diabetic Neuropathy","slug":"clinical-study-shows-medical-marijuana-is-promising-for-diabetic-neuropathy","content":"Diabetic neuropathy, a sometimes debilitating condition related to nerve\r\ndegeneration, may affect between [60 and 70\r\npercent](http://www.rightdiagnosis.com/d/diabetic_neuropathy/prevalence.htm)\r\nof all patients who have been diagnosed with either type I or type II\r\ndiabetes. Neuropathy can occur in different patterns throughout the\r\nbody. The most common areas plagued by the often-painful tingling of\r\nneuropathy are the head, torso, legs, feet, arms and hands.\r\n\r\nRelief from that tingling that can occur throughout the body often\r\neludes patients, leading to everyday lives filled with pain and the\r\ninability to participate in previously enjoyed activities. Findings in a\r\n2009 study, however, may offer hope where other treatments have failed.\r\n\r\nStudying Neuropathic Impact and Relief\r\n--------------------------------------\r\n\r\nA [groundbreaking 2009 clinical\r\nstudy](http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3066045/) was\r\nconducted at the General Clinical Research Center at the University of\r\nCalifornia, San Diego Medical Center to test the effect of medical\r\ncannabis on neuropathic pain suffered by HIV patients. Although a\r\ndifferent disease, the impact of neuropathy among the HIV patient\r\npopulation is just as painful, persistent and difficult to treat with\r\ntraditional opioid, NSAID or analgesic medications as neuropathy\r\nassociate with diabetes.\r\n\r\nRegulating the Impact of Painful Stimulus\r\n-----------------------------------------\r\n\r\nThe premise for the study, developed around animal-based studies,\r\nindicated a positive analgesic effect on the spinal cord in regulating\r\nhow pain centers throughout the body were sent painful signals. The\r\nfirst human study was a double-blind trial, which means that neither the\r\npatients or researchers knew who received active cannabis-based\r\nmedication, and who received placebos. Twenty-eight individuals\r\ncompleted all five phases of the trial, which included:\r\n\r\n-   An introductory week, where baseline pain measurements were\r\n    collected,\r\n-   Five days of medication usage, either active or placebo,\r\n-   Two weeks of monitoring for impact and side effects,\r\n-   Five more days of medication,\r\n-   And two final weeks of monitoring.\r\n\r\nResults after the seven-week study showed far greater pain relief was\r\nrealized by the participants who were given medical marijuana versus the\r\nplacebo. When used in addition to already-prescribed regimens of\r\ntraditional pain medications, study participants achieved up to 30\r\npercent greater pain relief--a significant change.\r\n\r\nRelief Without Reaction\r\n-----------------------\r\n\r\nComing in a close second to the drastic pain relief experienced by study\r\nparticipants was a secondary benefit of limited adverse interactions or\r\nreactions. Only two of the 28 study participants experienced undesired\r\nside effects, none of which proved to be long-lasting or\r\nlife-threatening. One subject developed short-term psychosis while\r\nanother suffered a smoking-related cough, both of which cleared after\r\ndiscontinuation of cannabis usage. Overall mood and the ability to\r\nperform normal daily functions improved in all study participants.\r\n\r\nHope for Diabetic Neuropathy\r\n----------------------------\r\n\r\nThe same improvement realized by participants in the HIV-related\r\nneuropathic pain study can occur in sufferers of diabetic neuropathy.\r\nMedical cannabis doctors can follow the marijuana dosing and timing\r\nguidelines developed from this study to be of maximum benefit in staving\r\noff the painful sensations of neuropathy. From study findings, medical\r\nmarijuana between 1% and 8% THC potency can be used, dependent upon\r\noriginal baseline pain determination, and smoked up to four times daily.\r\nWhen combined with continued analgesic use, long-time pain sufferers can\r\nfind much greater pain relief than ever before.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.492537313432836,"src":"/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/14b42/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.jpg","srcSet":"/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/f836f/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.jpg 200w,\n/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/2244e/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.jpg 400w,\n/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/14b42/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.jpg 800w,\n/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/47498/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.jpg 1200w,\n/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/e962a/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.jpg 1530w","srcWebp":"/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/58556/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/61e93/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.webp 200w,\n/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/1f5c5/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.webp 400w,\n/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/58556/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.webp 800w,\n/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/99238/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.webp 1200w,\n/static/41277ea7720942a347234f0045e8cc3e/09af0/21f6e029a26c6c95d534c636dba218c9.webp 1530w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_1866-markdown","title":"Long Awaited Relief for Diabetes Patients","slug":"long-awaited-relief-for-diabetes-patients","content":"Diabetes is one of the biggest health issues we face today. What was\r\nonce an uncommon disease has become a veritable epidemic. One in ten\r\npeople--almost 30 million altogether--are currently diagnosed with\r\ndiabetes. Two out of three people who suffer from diabetes will die,\r\neither from the condition itself or from complications, such as kidney\r\nfailure, associated with it. Diabetes is a condition in which the body\r\ncannot properly regulate the amount of glucose in the blood. There are\r\ntwo types of diabetes: Type 1, commonly called juvenile diabetes; and\r\nType 2, or adult-onset diabetes.\r\n\r\n\r\nType 1 vs. Type 2 Diabetes\r\n---------------------------\r\n\r\nType 1 is a genetic disorder in which the pancreas is unable to produce\r\nenough of the hormone insulin, which regulates blood sugar. Type 1\r\npatients must have daily insulin injections to supplement what their\r\nbodies make. In Type 2, the body produces enough insulin but is unable\r\nto process it properly. This is the most common form of diabetes, and is\r\na chronic disease requiring ongoing medical care. Diabetes is often\r\ncomplicated by other chronic health conditions such as high blood\r\npressure. There is no cure for either type of diabetes. Type 1 patients\r\nmust take insulin for life, and while lifestyle changes may have some\r\nimpact on Type 2 cases, though most patients remain on medication for\r\nlife as well. \r\n\r\nResearch into Cannabis Use\r\n---------------------------\r\n\r\nAlthough diabetes has been the subject of intense research, progress in\r\ntreatment has been slow. Recent studies, however, show that medical\r\nmarijuana holds promise as a primary treatment or adjunct to treatment\r\nfor both types of diabetes. One study, entitled *The Impact of Marijuana\r\nUse on Glucose, Insulin, and Insulin Resistance among US Adults* and\r\npublished in *The American Journal of Medicine* found that medical\r\ncannabis users had a more productive carbohydrate metabolism than\r\nnon-users; their fasting insulin levels were lower and they exhibited\r\nless insulin-resistance than non-users. In fact, their fasting insulin\r\nlevels were actually 16 percent lower than those who had stopped using\r\nmedical marijuana, or who had never used it at all, and they were more\r\nable to utilize the insulin their bodies produced.\r\n\r\nFor Type 2 patients, medical marijuana may help maintain normal blood\r\nsugar levels and control the advance of the disease. However, there are\r\nalso implications for Type 1 patients, as lower fasting levels may\r\ndecrease the amount and volume of insulin needed. For those whose\r\ndiabetes is complicated by high blood pressure, it may be even more\r\nhelpful. While it initially increases heart rate in new users, after a\r\nsmall adjustment period medical marijuana has been found to result in\r\nlowered blood pressure long-term.\r\n\r\n[Photo Credit.](https://www.flickr.com/photos/31169339@N07/3534215167)","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/7821208495809d8f1d6ba36b8e805bb6/14b42/178f4b81df9e3c37cf959906ca47805c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/7821208495809d8f1d6ba36b8e805bb6/f836f/178f4b81df9e3c37cf959906ca47805c.jpg 200w,\n/static/7821208495809d8f1d6ba36b8e805bb6/2244e/178f4b81df9e3c37cf959906ca47805c.jpg 400w,\n/static/7821208495809d8f1d6ba36b8e805bb6/14b42/178f4b81df9e3c37cf959906ca47805c.jpg 800w,\n/static/7821208495809d8f1d6ba36b8e805bb6/16310/178f4b81df9e3c37cf959906ca47805c.jpg 1024w","srcWebp":"/static/7821208495809d8f1d6ba36b8e805bb6/58556/178f4b81df9e3c37cf959906ca47805c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/7821208495809d8f1d6ba36b8e805bb6/61e93/178f4b81df9e3c37cf959906ca47805c.webp 200w,\n/static/7821208495809d8f1d6ba36b8e805bb6/1f5c5/178f4b81df9e3c37cf959906ca47805c.webp 400w,\n/static/7821208495809d8f1d6ba36b8e805bb6/58556/178f4b81df9e3c37cf959906ca47805c.webp 800w,\n/static/7821208495809d8f1d6ba36b8e805bb6/cc834/178f4b81df9e3c37cf959906ca47805c.webp 1024w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5191,"name":"Diabetes","slug":"diabetes","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}