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This Iconic Astronaut Snack Now Contains THC

Now marketed as “The Original Buzz” and available at both recreational and medical dispensaries in Colorado, Space Food Sticks will soon be going nationwide in legal states.

By Nicolas Jose Rodriguez

Space Food Sticks, the tasty cylindrical protein snacks that captured the public imagination in the 1970s, are back with an out-of-this-world twist: THC.

The release of infused Space Food Sticks represents the first time a classic American brand has entered the booming recreational cannabis edibles market.

space food sticks
Photo courtesy of The Vivid Team/Facebook

Fifty years ago, Pillsbury created Space Food Sticks for Apollo 11 astronauts to be eaten with their helmets on. A commercial spin-off was billed as the world’s first “Astro-Snack” and it became a lunchbox favorite, developing a cult following before disappearing from grocery store shelves in the 1970s.

The new iteration of Space Food Sticks is a joint venture between The Vivid Team of Denver, Colorado (a company that creates and sells food, beverage, cosmetic and cannabis products), and Retrofuture Products, a Brooklyn-based specialty-foods company. They are relaunching legacy brands in the emerging cannabis edibles market.

“I was looking to bring back an iconic snack from the space age,” said Eric Lefcowitz owner of Retrofuture Products in a press release. “Space Food Sticks have a truly unique history.”

The Brooklyn entrepreneur marketed a non-psychoactive version of the chewy treats before pivoting into the uncharted territory of cannabis branding.

“Very few brands in cannabis have established themselves as trustworthy. And we have a track record of being trustworthy with decades of experience developing mainstream CPGs. So we leaped at the chance to apply that to Space Food Sticks,” added Steffen Weck, co-president along with Jessica Cristadoro of the Vivid Team.

 RELATED: Which Market Leaders Will Make Up The Cannabis Industry Space Race?

“We are fielding calls from all over the country. That’s a result of brand equity as well as a growing public interest in a healthier alternative in edibles and we provide that,” explained Cristadoro.

 

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Now marketed as “The Original Buzz” and available at both recreational and medical dispensaries in Colorado, Space Food Sticks will soon be going nationwide in legal states.

RELATED: Going To Space Isn’t The Only Way Jeff Bezos Wants To Get High

Interest in all things space has surged thanks to Elon Musk’s Space X, Jeff Bezos’ Blue Horizons and Richard Branson’s Virgin Intergalactic. “We hope they’ll get served as inflight snacks,” Lefcowitz concluded.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

What Method Of Smoking Weed Gets You The Highest — Is There One?

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If you decide to change your smoking methods because you feel you’re not high enough, you might not experience any difference if you do not confirm the quality of your product.

Do you ever ask yourself if you’re smoking weed the right way? Or do you have a favorite way of smoking pot but you have that nagging feeling that you’re not doing it the right way?  It’s not just you. Everyone cannot have the same ‘best’ way of smoking cannabis. Your best high may not be the same as mine.

The goal of many recreational marijuana users is to get high the best way possible, and when high, they aim to get the highest. The more they find themselves rolling or inhaling smoke from their delivery devices, the more doubt they’ll have.

Here's Why Smoking Weed Makes Your Eyes Red
Photo by Artem Xromov via Unsplash

What some fail to understand is that the quality of a high is not only dependent on the smoking method. The THC content of the buds also plays a huge role. You can practice smoking your weed the way fellow stoners prescribed and still wouldn’t get that satisfying high because you’re smoking something lesser. To satisfy customers, different companies make ads that allege that their new products are the next best delivery methods for smoking pot.

Experimenting To Discover Your Best Method Of Smoking Weed

The best way to go about the mighty task of figuring out what’s best for you is to experiment. There are many ways to smoke pot and you only have to try out some to discover which method gives you the kick you desire so much. A few dollars is all you need to purchase some weed and visit a cannabis bar to try out the delivery equipment. If you can afford to buy the equipment instead of renting at these consumption spaces, it would also work.

As I mentioned earlier, nothing about cannabis (or even the world) generally works the same way for everyone. The same hit won’t deliver the same intensity in everyone that uses it.

Measuring THC

The highest THC recorded for a  concentrated marijuana or cannabis plant is roughly capped at 30%. Weed with this THC content is considered to be a sky-high level. Although it is tempting, not everyone can handle the high. By experimenting, you get to figure out how much THC you enjoy ingesting. It opens the door to new experiences that you can try out in creative ways that are guaranteed to give you fun.

RELATED: What Exactly Is Considered High-THC Cannabis These Days?

THC levels are measured in mg and percentage. Percentage lets you know how much THC is contained in the bud, while mg lets you know how much THC is contained in extracts and concentrates. A milligram is a form of measurement that pays attention to the weight of the product. There’s a lot of maths involved in this, and I have no intention to bore you in the slightest.

Let’s focus more on smoking good weed and the best methods to get the most out of each drag, shall we? 

Smoking Weed

Critics often claim that Stoners miss out on a lot of highs when they smoke a blunt. But remember, what works for Jack, may not work for John. Before smoking, there’s this exciting thrill and nostalgia that comes along with grinding a premium bud and then rolling the joints, or packing a bowl. Not to mention the fun that comes along with passing the smoke when amid buddies.

Here are some smoking methods and the level of highness expected:

rolling a marijuana joint
Photo by gradyreese/Getty Images

Joints

Depending on the content of THC in the rolled buds in the joint, you can expect to receive about 35% of the flower’s total THC. The missing THC accounts for losses due to pyrolytic destruction and side-stream smoke.

RELATED: Why Your Marijuana Tolerance Break Isn’t Working

Pyrolysis is what happens when a bud is too hot from being inflamed, some of the available cannabinoids are destroyed by the extreme temperature. Some THC is also lost when you pause dragging. You could also expect the level of expected high to reduce when you share your joint with another person.

Packing A Bowl

When bowls are smoked, pyrolytic destruction also occurs. This is because you are holding an open torch to the packed buds throughout the session. You receive about 40% of THC. The more it takes for you to smoke all, the less THC that will be received into the body. Side-streaming can also result in THC losses.

Hash Bowls

This is similar to smoking a bowl. Hash can more or less be likened to processed and pressed kief. The distinction is that hash is produced from the trichomes of the plant (not the buds). Trichomes possess twice the amount of THC contained in the plant and are twice as potent as the regular buds processed into pre-rolls. As expected, at least 50% of the THC is lost to pyrolysis and sidestream. Regardless of this, it can be considered as smoking concentrates.

vaping
Photo by martin-dm/Getty Images

Vaporizers

Expert stoners consider vaporizers to be the most accurate form of smoking pot. Note that vaporizers are not the same as regular oil vapes. These use a more controlled heating source to bring the weed to the right temperature that would conserve THC and prevent too much loss. Unlike the other methods of smoking, vaporizers have a lesser THC loss. This falls between 25-30%.

All smoking methods will inevitably cause a loss in available THC content, but for vaporizers, loss only occurs at the endpoint when the buds begin to dry and burn.

Bongs

These devices will give you a cool and smooth smoke. About 50% of the THC will be lost regardless. Due to its heating source, THC loss occurs at temperatures above 390°F. At this temperature, the THC is released and damaged.

Conclusion

There’s no standard method for getting high. You can only experiment to get your preferred technique. Blunts, bowls, joints, hash, and bongs are cost-effective methods that can be shared among buddies, while vaporizers are reliable devices that help you preserve your THC. Another thing you must do is to find a reputable distributor. This way you’re assured that all your products are of premium quality.

If you decide to change your smoking methods because you feel you’re not high enough, you might not experience any difference if you do not confirm the quality of your product.

This article was created in partnership with Cannabis.net

Holiday Weekend Cannabis Sales Soar

Black Friday is expected to bring in another $88 million, up 71% from daily average sales. It will likely become another top 10 sales day for 2021.

By Javier Hasse

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving, sometimes called “Green Wednesday” due to the high cannabis sales figures usually registered on that date, could be the second-highest sales day of the year. Already, holiday weekend cannabis sales soar to the delight of companies and consumers alike!

In fact, according to business intelligence from Akerna U.S. cannabis consumers will spend $251 million over the four days around Thanksgiving(11/24-11/27), a 60% increase over daily average sales.

marijuana dispensary
Photo by stockstudioX/Getty Images

Green Wednesday is expected to bring in $90 million in sales, a 78% spike from daily averages, making it the second-highest sales day of the year after 4/20. Last year was the first time that Green Wednesday sales surpassed Black Friday sales, a phenomenon that is expected to repeat this year.

RELATED: Green Wednesday Cannabis Sales Blow Away Black Friday

Thursday, November 25th, Thanksgiving, is predicted to bring about $4.6 million due to the shortened hours and closures of dispensaries and retail locations.

Friday, November 26th, also known as Black Friday, is expected to bring in another $88 million, up 71% from daily average sales. Black Friday will likely become another top 10 sales day for this year.

Saturday, November 27th, is predicted to gross $68.4 million in sales.

RELATED: Green Wednesday To Cyber Monday: Cannabis Discounts You Won’t Want To Miss!

“Whether people are turning to cannabis for relaxation, to nurture a sense of togetherness, or for other reasons, consumers have made it clear that cannabis is part of Thanksgiving preparation,” said James Ahrendt, Business Intelligence Architect at Akerna. “In anticipation of these major increases in sales and traffic, dispensaries and retailers should prepare their staff and promotions accordingly.”

RELATED: What Is The Cannabis Community Thankful For This Thanksgiving?

Other predictions for 11/24 – 11/27:

Category sales:

  • Flower – 48%
  • Cartridge/Pens – 32%
  • Concentrates – 10%
  • Infused Edibles – 9%
  • Other – 1%

Average order total:

  • Adult-use – $81.20
  • Medical – $127.30

Sales by demographic:

  • 62% male
  • 38% female

Sales by age groups: 

  • Under 30 – 28%
  • 30-40 –31%
  • 40-50 – 20%
  • 50-60 –12%
  • Over 60 – 9%

Holiday weekend cannabis sales soar is another example of the change in public perception around legal cannabis.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

Green Wednesday To Cyber Monday: Cannabis Discounts You Won’t Want To Miss!

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Cannabis consumers spent approximately $238 million during the 2020 Thanksgiving weekend. With these new deals, that number could easily increase.

Without a doubt, ​​Americans have a big appetite for cannabis on Thanksgiving. In fact, Thanksgiving ranks among one of the top five cannabis sales days of the year. Ranking higher than Thanksgiving Day is the day prior, which has come to be referred to as Green Wednesday. Green Wednesday was the single biggest cannabis sales day of 2020, with an 80% increase in daily sales, beating out Black Friday for the first time, which brought a 75% increase in sales.

With the high holiday right around the corner, not only is this a time to anticipate gorging ourselves with turkey, pie, and stuffing, the best and biggest shopping deals for anyone looking to drum up the munchies with some THC, or simply relax during a stressful family time with CBD-leaning products, cannabis brands across the country have you covered. 

From cutting-edge cannabis devices to cannabis and hemp-infused products, here are a few deals to spark up your holiday.

Discounted Gifts and Devices for Cannabis Consumers 

Moose Labs — free gift w/purchase on Thanksgiving, discount code scavenger hunt on Cyber Monday

Photo courtesy of Moose Labs

Moose Labs is the creator of the MouthPeace ($9.99) the first physician-backed germ-preventing device designed to fit joints, vape pens, bongs or bowls for a safer experience. MouthPeaces and other accessories from Moose Labs will be 20% off for Green Wednesday, and 25% off on Black Friday. On Thanksgiving day, Moose Labs is offering a free limited-edition Moose Labs pin with every $30 purchase. Moose Labs is also hosting a Cyber Monday Scavenger Hunt, with hidden discount codes dispersed throughout the website, ranging from 5%-50% off. Clues can be found on the Moose Labs Instagram (@mooselabs), and via email.

RELATED: Green Wednesday Cannabis Sales Blow Away Black Friday

The MouthPeace and the new MouthPeace Mini prevent germ spread at the source, creating a sanitary barrier between users’ mouths and their pipe, joint, or vape. Each MouthPeace comes with replaceable activated carbon Filters which use and triple-layer filtration to protect your lungs, removing resins, contaminants, and tar particles from each inhale. 

Hitoki — 40% off the Trident laser smoking device

 

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Hitoki, creator of the Trident ($499.99-$649.99) is offering 40% off on the 24K Gold, Rose Gold, and Black Tridents starting November 23rd. The Trident is a patent-pending laser combustion smoking device that preserves the aromas and flavors while you smoke utilizing the method of combustion similar to a magnifying glass under the sun. A 30% discount on the Trident will be offered starting Saturday, November 27, 2021 for Cyber Monday.

Higher Celebrations — Birthjay 5-pack for over 40% off  

Photo courtesy of Higher Celebrations

Higher Celebrations introduces the Birthjay, the world’s first joint birthday candle and one-of-a-kind, smoke-able cake topper. This festive pre-rolled cone topped with a candlewick comes with a cake stake for easily placing on any cupcake or dessert. Starting Green Wednesday through the end of Black Friday, Higher Celebrations is sparking up the holiday season by offering their flagship product for 40% off.   

Dip Devices — 15%-30% off starting 11/22

Photo courtesy of Dip Devices

Dip Devices, creators of on-the-go dabbing technology for concentrates is offering a 15% off sitewide discount from November 22nd-29th. Shoppers who spend $75 or more will receive a 30% off discount. In addition to the original Dipper and the 3-in-1 EVRI pen, the Little Dipper is the newest product in the Dip Devices’ repertoire. The Little Dipper is a portable and reliable tool that delivers big clouds for concentrate consumers, at an affordable price.

Hanu Labs 20% off select oproducts 

Photo courtesy of Hano Labs

Hanu Labs, a minority-owned vaporizer tech company, is offering special discounts on Black Friday. The Helio Wellness Kit (original price $369.99) is on sale for $299.99, and The Crown HydraTree™, a sturdy 5mm premium glass piece that pairs with the original EVO and the brand new Hanu Labs EVO Petra unit, is on sale for $99 (original price $179.99).

The Helio Wellness Kit comes with The EVO™, a dual-functioning desktop vaporizer for both flower and concentrates, plus the Helio glass mouthpiece, which offers a direct and flavorful pull without moisture conditioning.

As the 5X Cannabis Cup Award Winner for “Best Desktop Vaporizer,”  The EVO™ features patented Perpetual Heat Thermal Technology that evenly extracts aromatic healing properties of cannabis flower or concentrates, while preserving flavor. The EVO, included in the discounted Helio Wellness Kit, was designed by a classically trained French chef to wield an articulate convection-based heating system that eliminates combustion while maintaining the consistent temperatures needed to fully express the plant’s aromatic terpenes.

This tabletop technology is attached to an all-glass airpath, such as the Helio glass mouthpiece, the Crown HydraTree, or other Hanu Labs glass pieces, allowing the herb to enter the airways as a rich, clean, moisture conditioned vapor, cooled to perfection.

CandaScent — 20% off forest bathing candles through end of November

Photo courtesy of CandaScent

CandaScent, creator of the Forest Bathing ‘MOJO’ Candle ($68) is the first candle maker to formulate scented candles with the only aromatic molecule found in plants that’s known for interacting with the Endocannabinoid System: Beta-Caryophyllene. Since Beta-Caryophyllene’s extraordinary effects can be mediated through our olfactory system (otherwise known as our sense of smell) burning candles is the perfect method for delivering its science-backed benefits.

RELATED: Cannabis Holiday Gifts For Every Type Of Friend

Leveraging the aromatic molecules that determine the smell of plants and herbs, woman-owned CandaScent Labs partnered with terpene expert Susan Trapp PhD, to formulate their latest MOJO candle. Inspired by the Japanese practice of Shinrinyoku (forest bathing) MOJO’s notes of fresh balsam, spruce, and cypress will connect you to the clean and grounding scents of the lush green forest. Full of phytoncides, antioxidants, antibacterials and antifungals, MOJO was concocted to get you feeling like you have reached the top of the mountain. For the times when you can’t go for a walk in the woods, this forest in a jar is the next best thing. Through the end of November, shoppers can use the code HAPPYGIFTING for 20% off all products site-wide.

Discounted Hemp Products for Relaxing

According to a 2019 Gallup Poll on CBD use, 14% – about 1 in 7 – of U.S. adults personally use CBD products. As of 2020, Americans are most commonly using CBD for pain relief (64%) and anxiety (49%). Generally unwinding after a long day for general relaxation or stress relief is another incredibly common reason why 33% consumers turn to CBD. Since the holidays are a stressful time, Green Wednesday is an ideal time to start considering CBD for relief. 

A few options to consider include…

Buy 1 get 1 free (BOGO) deal on all Identity products

Photo courtesy of Identity

Luckily, since food products formulated with CBD becoming more and more common, there are several ways to integrate the benefits of CBD into your Thanksgiving dinner, or other holiday parties in the near future. IDENTITY for example works with small family farms, and sophisticated Norwegian food suppliers to produce exceptional CBD products from your standard  tincture, to a powdered CBD Non-Dairy Coffee Creamer, and a new CBD infused Bone Broth – good for on-the-go meals or incorporating into the thanksgiving dinner table. Starting Wednesday, November 24, 2021, IDENTITY is offering a buy one get one free (BOGO) deal on all of their unconventional food products with a dash of CBD.  

Rhythm CBD Seltzers — 30% off Shorties on Green Wednesday

Rhythm is an infused beverage company that develops and sells delicious, functional wellness drinks featuring CBD, adaptogens and superfoods to put your mind and body in harmony. For Green Wednesday, Rhythm is offering a 30% off discount on their new line of smaller beverages, Shorties, with the code GREENWED. The Shorties Variety Pack ($44.99) comes with Rhythm’s blackberry-lavender flavored Rhythm Dream bedtime seltzer, the lemon-ginger flavored soothing seltzer, Rhythm Recover for post-workout recovery, and the grapefruit-rosemary flavored energizing seltzer, Rhythm Awake for a jitter-free caffeine boost, are all available in the new 8.5oz cans. All flavors of Rhythm Shorties also contain 10mg of broad-spectrum hemp extract.

Empower Bodycare — 40% off for Black Friday 

 

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Empower Bodycare is an LGBTQ+ owned company created female-entrepreneur Trista Okel, who first started making CBD oil in her kitchen as a personal endeavor to help her mom manage chronic pain. After perfecting the formulation, Empower now carries a variety of popular CBD-infused bath salts, lotions, and oils with aromatherapeutic scents like Lavender Bergamot and Lemon Verbena that will instantly transport you back to your favorite spa or help you unwind after a long day of holiday traveling. Empower Bodycare is offering 40% off all products for Black Friday and 30% off all sale items for Cyber Monday.  

 Green Unicorn Farms — 30% off during Cyber Week

Photo courtesy of Green Unicorn Farms

Green Unicorn Farms is a Bay Area CBD flower company offers a variety of strain options that come in either pre-rolls or pre-packaged eighths. They are offering 20% off all products on Green Wednesday and 30% off for all of Cyber Week, 11/25-12/2. 

RELATED: 4 Questions To Ask Yourself Before Buying CBD Gifts

Green Unicorn Farms’ hemp flower pre rolls come in child-resistant packaging that contain 2, 5 or 7, 0.75g pre rolls each. The Special Sauce Pre roll from Green Unicorn Farms is a fan-favorite, since it’s packed with a relaxing CBD strain evoking soothing terpene profiles for a perfectly mellow smoking experience. This particular blend of cannabinoids and terpenes make Special Sauce a prime choice when both the mind and body need some quiet time after a long day. As one of the most popular strains from Green Unicorn Farms, lighting a Special Sauce pre-roll will put you in the perfect mood and provide a sense of calm. 

HighOnLove — 25% off Black Friday & Cyber Monday

Photo courtesy of HighOnLove

HighOnLove, a luxurious line of sensual and self-care products designed to take pleasure to the next level, all blended with premium cannabis oil or hemp seed oil. On Black Friday and Cyber Monday, HighOnLove is having a 25% off sale on all of the online hemp products that make great gifts for yourself or your significant other, such as the Stimulating Sensual Oil ($50) or the Dark Chocolate Body Paint ($35). These products are made to revolutionize the way you love by igniting a more intense and profound orgasmic experience.

These People Have A Higher Risk Of Developing COVID-19

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New data finds that this group of people faces higher risks when it comes to contracting and battling COVID-19.

A lot of factors can affect whether or not a person has a higher risk of developing COVID-19. But now we’re learning that research from the past two years of the pandemic has shown that people with mental health conditions and disorders are at higher risk of developing the disease.

A study published last year showed links between worse COVID-19 infections and people who were diagnosed with mental health conditions. The study’s lead researcher, Dr. Luming Li, spoke with NPR about their findings and what these higher levels of mortality could mean.

Dressing Up To Work From Home Has Surprising Effects On Your Mental Health
Photo by Yasmina H via Unsplash

“What we found was we had a higher level of mortality for those that had a prior psychiatric history,” said Dr. Li. The data gathered found that people with a history of mental illness had 50% more risk of death from COVID-19 than people with no history of mental illness. Aside from having worse outcomes once the disease is contracted, studies also show that mental health disorders make it more likely for people to get COVID-19 in the first place.

Researchers have a lot of theories as to why this might be occurring. For starters, people dealing with a mental health condition might take care of themselves less than others. They might also be isolated, thus increasing their odds of experiencing other diseases.

RELATED: TikTok Is Filled With Mental Health Advice — Here’s Why You Should Be Wary

These people are also more likely to have worse mental and physical health than others, coping with chronic conditions like diabetes, cardiovascular problems, and more. There are also medications such as antipsychotics, which increase the risk of chronic health problems.

Experiencing Cannabis Anxiety? This TikTok Hack Can Help
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Lastly, it’s important to account for the homeless population in this country, which is comprised of about 40% of people who cope with some form of serious mental health illness, and who are also more at risk for COVID-19.

RELATED: This Common Disorder Could Make COVID-19 Worse

While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention prioritize people with mental health disorders, it’s very important for all people that are aware of this to help out their closest friends and family members, advising them on getting their vaccine or booster. These numbers are significant and must be kept in mind as the pandemic continues to progress and change.

Exercise Pumps ‘Cannabis-Like’ Molecules In Our Bodies, Finds New Study

In addition to the runner’s high, researchers found that moderate-intensity paced exercise produced numerous benefits that aid sleep, mood and concentration ability.

By Nina Zdinjak

Many athletes and running enthusiasts insist that once you start running, really running, you can’t stop — you get hooked! The same can be said for many other forms of physical exercise.

Indeed, science tells us that exercising produces chemicals called endorphins, which are often referred to as “feel-good” chemicals because they can act as a pain reliever and can trigger a euphoric feeling, or as many call it, a “runner’s high.”

Now, a new study adds scientific facts to that phrase, reports Miami Herald.

exercise
Photo by Caley Vanular via Unsplash

According to research published Nov. 17 in the journal Gut Microbes, exercise loads up anti-inflammatory and “cannabis-like” molecules by changing bacteria in your gut. Researchers call them “cannabis-like substances” because they act similar to cannabinoids produced by the cannabis plant. On the other hand, endocannabinoids, known to minimize inflammation and help with specific health conditions like heart diseases and arthritis, are produced naturally in our bodies.

RELATED: Intensifying Your Runner’s High With Marijuana

“Our study clearly shows that exercise increases the body’s own cannabis-type substances, which can have a positive impact on many conditions,” the study’s first author and research fellow at the University of Nottingham’s School of Medicine in the UK, Dr. Amrita Vijay said in a news release. “As interest in cannabidiol [CBD] oil and other supplements increases, it is important to know that simple lifestyle interventions like exercise can modulate endocannabinoids.”

The Study Details 

The research examined 78 participants older than 45 who had painful knee osteoarthritis. Thirty-eight volunteers were assigned specific strength exercises to do every day for six weeks, while the other 40 did nothing. Participants were compared to a group of healthy adults without osteoarthritis.

exercise
Photo by Victor Freitas via Unsplash

The collected blood and stool samples showed that the participants who worked out had experienced pain relief and had more specific bacteria in their gut that in turn induced anti-inflammatory substances. They also had higher levels of endocannabinoids, which are accountable for a third of the anti-inflammatory effects found in the gut, according to the researchers.

RELATED: This Is Why Exercise May Improve Memory And Delay Alzheimer’s

The individuals who did not exercise did not experience these positive changes in their bodies.

In addition to the runner’s high, moderate-intensity paced exercise produces numerous benefits that aid sleep, mood and concentration ability.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

This Low-Impact Activity May Burn More Calories Than Walking

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This low-risk activity, which has increased in popularity during the pandemic, may be your new go-to fitness exercise.

Walking is one of the world’s most common, no-gear-required activities. Aside from carrying us from point A to point B, walking is also a form of exercise that everyone can commit to, no matter their age or fitness level. But, this low-impact activity may burn more calories than walking. According to CNN, hiking, becoming increasingly more popular, can burn even more calories.

Walking and hiking are two very similar activities. Like most cardio workouts, they boost bone and heart health, improve your balance, and strengthen your core. The main difference between the two is the level of energy they demand, with hiking, an activity done in nature and usually accompanied by changes in the ground in terms of terrain and elevation, gaining the upper hand.

RELATED: 5 Things To Know Before Hiking With Weed

heres what you should do if you want to hike with marijuana
Photo by Colton Duke via Unsplash

“Walking is one of the best workouts for heart health for all ages, including those with heart problems and conditions,” said cardiologist Dr. Fahmi Farah. “Hiking is also heart-healthy and provides a higher calorie burn in a shorter amount of time.”

Both activities are healthy and good for helping you manage stress. Hikes are usually more strenuous, burning more calories and distracting you more from the problems of your everyday life.  The fact that hikes tend to put you in close contact with nature is also a perk, with studies linking happiness with surrounding yourself with nature.

RELATED: How Drinking Tea And Coffee Could Positively Impact Your Health

How Marijuana And CBD Help Create Calm, Healing Walks
Photo by Tyler Nix via Unsplash

Walking and hiking are activities that we should incorporate more into our lives. In 2020, over 57.8 Americans said they hiked, a figure that’s been increasing over the years. It’s a malleable activity that provides you with a nice change of pace from the gym, that can be done with friends and adapted to your preference.

Like walking, hiking also creates a perfect opportunity for consuming weed, resulting in the elusive workout that’s both healthy and very fun. Just remember to hike with a group of friends, be discreet and respect others, to start off slow, and to make the most of your experience.

5 Medical Conditions You Didn’t Know Cannabis Can Treat

Cannabis has been shown time and time again to improve the lives of those who struggle with certain ailments. Here’s just a small sample.

Medical marijuana is now legal in 36 states and several U.S. territories. Its medical applications continue to broaden as cannabis becomes a mainstream treatment option in this country. 

With this increased accessibility, marijuana is now being researched and used to treat more medical conditions, and some of these may surprise you.

Inflammatory Bowel Diseases

Those who suffer from inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs), such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, are turning to cannabis for relief. Studies have shown that cannabis can not cure these diseases or stop the symptoms. There have, however, been reports that using marijuana as treatment for the painful symptoms has proven successful.

Is Cannabis Good For Gut Health?
Photo by SolStock/Getty Imagees

According to TIME, “patients who used cannabinoids reported significant improvements in abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, appetite and overall well-being.” Cannabis cannot prevent these painful diseases, but when used to relieve the symptoms it can be highly effective.

Epilepsy

Cannabis has shown promise when used to treat some forms of epilepsy, in particular,  more severe types of the disease. Lennox-Gastaut syndrome and Dravet syndrome are two rare epileptic disorders. Recently the FDA has approved a cannabis-based drug, Epidiolex, to help treat these rarer diseases. 

RELATED: CBD May Offer More Benefits To Epilepsy Patients Than Previously Thought

According to the FDA website, Epidolex is “the first FDA-approved drug that contains a purified drug substance derived from marijuana. It is also the first FDA approval of a drug for the treatment of patients with Dravet syndrome.” This marijuana-based drug is used to treat seizures associated with these diseases and has shown marked success. 

Asthma

There is debate as to whether or not marijuana helps or hurts symptoms related to asthma. Smoking any substance is highly detrimental to those who suffer from asthma. Some say that cannabis should be avoided in general if you suffer from asthma. Others have noted some benefits from using cannabinoids to treat symptoms related to asthma.

RELATED: 6 Possible Benefits Of CBD That Doctors Are Studying Right Now

“Taking other forms of the plant that don’t require smoking may potentially benefit people with asthma,” according to Healthline. The research on using cannabinoids to treat asthma is still very new and contested. Time and further research is needed before declaring whether cannabis helps or hurts asthma.

alzheimer's
Photo by FredFroese / Getty Images

Alzheimer’s

Alziehmer’s patients have found medical marijuana useful for several reasons. Not onlyt has marijuana has helped Alzeihmer’s patients put much needed weight on, it has also helped curbed the often-agitated moods and behavior that many who suffer from Alzeihmer’s experiences.

RELATED: FDA Approves Expensive Alzheimer’s Drug And Continues To Ignore Cannabis

Additionally, there was a recent study that linked marijuana to slowing a process that may or may not cause the disease itself. “In one cell study, researchers found it slowed the progress of protein deposits in the brain,” wrote CNN. “Scientists think these proteins may be part of what causes Alzheimer’s, although no one knows what causes the disease,” the article continued. 

Multiple Sclerosis

Medical marijuana has proven to be particularly effective in treating symptoms of Multiple Sclerosis. “In particular, marijuana appears to ease the pain of multiple sclerosis (MS), and nerve pain in general,” according to Harvard Medical School’s website

Marijuana is often helpful for symptoms like stiffness, pain and spasms. Other pain drugs for MS can be very strong and can come with equally strong side effects. Cannabis can help relieve pain while not causing severe brain fog or other harsh side effects.

Cannabis-Based Drug Approved For Cancer Treatment In Peru

Sativyl contains a 27 mg/ml concentration of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and 25 mg/ml of CBD. It’s sold by the flask and contains 10 ml and 250 mg of concentration.

By Javier Hasse

Cannabis-based drug Sativyl has been approved as a treatment for cancer-related pain in Peru.

Sativyl, produced by Verdemed, was created to be as similar as possible to Sativex, produced by Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC’s GW Pharmaceuticals and is recommended for the relief of cancer symptoms and spasticity in patients with multiple sclerosis.

breast cancer
Photo by fstop123/Getty Images

Among other uses, Sativyl is indicated to relieve strong pain. The medication is considered an efficient, non-addictive substitute for opioids, like morphine or oxycodone.

In the United States, opioids are considered a public health issue. The CDC recorded a 28.5% increase in deaths caused by opioid overdoses between April 2020 and April 2021. For the first time ever, the country surpassed the mark of 100,000 drug-related deaths over a year-long period.

An Alternative To Classic Antiemetics

Sativyl also works to control nausea caused by chemotherapy treatment. The antiemetic performance of the medication improves the patient’s appetite and, consequently, their physical condition to face the therapy.

Sativyl contains a 27 mg/ml concentration of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and 25 mg/ml of CBD. It’s sold by the flask and contains 10 ml and 250 mg of concentration.

RELATED: Breast Cancer Patients Are Using Cannabis, But Many Are Lacking This Important Step

The medicine itself is produced in Canada by the pharmaceutical company Verdemed, in partnership with the Toronto Institute of Pharmaceutical Technology.

THC oil
Photo by Rocky89/Getty Images

“In January of next year, we’ll have Sativyl on the Peruvian market,” says José Bacellar, the company’s CEO. “We believe it will cost a third of Mevatyl [the Brazilian version of Sativex], coming up to a mere R$500 [$89.60].”

RELATED: Cancer Patients Say Cannabis Is Just As Effective Or Better Than Cancer Treatments

The Peruvian health license was approved less than one month after Verdemed received the Brazilian Sanitary Agency (ANVISA) approval to distribute full spectrum 50 mg/ml CBD, a medicine developed in partnership with the American-Colombian company Clever Leaves. Documentation for Sativyl has already been submitted to ANVISA (the Brazilian equivalent of the FDA) for analysis.

This article originally appeared on Benzinga and has been reposted with permission.

7 Pros And Cons Of Vape Pens

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Vape pens are some of the most popular ways of consuming marijuana, but users should know the difference between consuming vaporized cannabis vs flower.

There are many ways to consume marijuana but none of them are as easy and convenient as a vape pen. These devices can be purchased in dispensaries and come in different models, with some being disposable and others just requiring the switch of a cartridge and a quick charge. They have understandably become some of the most popular items in the cannabis industry, with a 50% increase in sales between 2017 and 2018.

While vape pens are not the most extreme form of consuming cannabis, they’re a bit of a departure if you’re used to smoking flower. Here are some of the most noticeable pros and cons of these devices.

Portability and Discretion

Wall Street Journal Blames Vaping Crisis On Marijuana Legalization, Completely Missing The Point
Photo by Joegend/Getty Images

RELATED: How To Spot A Fake Vape Cartridge

Vape pens are some of the most portable and discreet ways of consuming cannabis. Once you have one you won’t have to worry about where you store your pen or who’s looking at you while you vape. These devices generally release a much more muted smell when compared to joints and pipes, and are also hard to distinguish from e-cigarettes.

Quick Consumption

Vape pens
Photo courtesy of Mary Schumacher; graphic by TFT

One of the reasons why vape pens are so convenient is because you don’t need anything else (aside from the cannabis extract) to get high. Your plans won’t be derailed by a missing lighter and you won’t have to waste minutes in rolling up a joint or grinding weed and then packing it into a bowl.

Dosage

Photo by HighGradeRoots/Getty Images

RELATED: The Complete Guide To Cleaning Your Cannabis Bongs, Pipes, Dab Rigs, And Vapes

Another positive aspect about vape pens is the fact that they’re much easier to manage than bongs and dabs. While either of those methods might get you too high from a single hit, this only occurs with vape pens if you take several hits in one go. Unless you’re a beginner or have little experience with vaporized cannabis, one hit of a vape pen won’t lead to an overdose.

Flavors

vaping marijuana
Photo by Chimpinski/Getty Images

This might be a pro or a con depending on your perspective, but flavors are definitely one of the things that make vape pens more intriguing for a wide variety of users. Flavors make the smoke and the cannabis taste more palatable, especially if you’re someone who’s new to the drug and doesn’t enjoy the aromatic and weedy flavor and smell that occurs when consuming other forms of weed. Vape juices come in every flavor, whether that’s fruits, drinks, mint, and more.

There’s a Learning Curve

Study Shows Adolescents Who Use E-Cigs More Likely To Use Cannabis Later On
Photo by lindsayfox via Pixabay

RELATED: 3 Reasons Why Cannabis Vape Tech Is Soaring

Switching from smoking marijuana flower to vaping requires some adaptation since the latter tends to be a lot stronger. A 2018 study conducted by Johns Hopkins Medicine researchers analyzed two groups of subjects: one of them smoked concentrate and the other smoked flower. Both groups consumed the same dosage. The study found that subjects who smoked concentrate experienced more short term anxiety, paranoia, memory loss and distraction.

Need Charging

vape
Photo by Flickr user Ecig Click

Unlike flower, bongs and dabs, vape pens must be charged. This shouldn’t be much of a hassle if you regularly charge your devices but it could lead to some annoyance if you lose the charger or if you forget and had planned to smoke on the go.

TLC

4 tips to avoid fake vape cartridges
Photo by jetcityimage/Getty Images

RELATED: A Beginner’s Guide To Vape Pens

Vape pens, depending on their price and level of complexity, demand some care. While disposable pens can be thrown away after they run out of juice, more expensive products demand regular cleanings, protection from extreme weather, a protective case and regular charge.

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