Marijuana consumption has long been associated with the lazy stoner concept. It is just assumed the people who use marijuana become lethargic and lazy. But do they? A newly published study suggests that the idea is just a myth. It is the latest in a number of studies that have challenged the lazy stoner idea.
The research was conducted using data from the Canadian National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and published in the Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research journal. Researchers found no evidence proving the lazy stoner concept. To the country, they did note marginal evidence of the exact opposite.
The Jeff Spicoli Stereotype
I suspect the idea of a lazy stoner came from media portrayals of marijuana users. Cheech and Chong could be the consummate examples. Of course, don’t forget Jeff Spicoli from the 1982 film Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Spicoli was the consummate stoner always chasing the next joint.
The pro cannabis movement has a vested interest in dispelling the lazy stoner idea. First and foremost, they don’t want false impressions of cannabis use to impact medical cannabis laws and regulations. They do not want lawmakers misunderstanding the effects of cannabis consumption to the extent that they unnecessarily regulate it.
Furthermore, dispelling the idea also clears up confusion about whether medical cannabis consumers can still function in daily life. They can and do. Jeff Spicoli is a Hollywood stereotype. He is nothing more and nothing less.
More About the Study
Researchers looked at data gathered from 4,666 adults, 14.1 percent who reported having used cannabis within the previous 30 days. Furthermore, the researchers said that their study group represents “the largest cohort in which the relationship between cannabis use and physical activity has been studied.”
An analysis of the data showed little to no differences in both physical activity and sleep patterns among people who used marijuana – as compared to those who did not. The marijuana users were no less likely to sleep more or be more sedentary. They were no less likely to avoid moderate to vigorous physical activity.
In addition, the marijuana users were more likely to report increased light activity. What that means is not exactly clear. Nonetheless, the study did not reveal any lazy stoners. It should be noted that all the participants were 18-59 years of age.
What It Means to Medical Cannabis Users
The study’s results are good news to qualifying patients who might otherwise avoid using medical cannabis out of fear that they will succumb to a perceived ‘lazy stoner syndrome’. At least in the short term, consuming cannabis seems to have no such impact. Nonetheless, patients should not be afraid to talk to their doctors or pharmacists about any such concerns.
In Utah, all medical cannabis is sold at licensed medical cannabis pharmacies like Brigham City’s Beehive Farmacy. Under state law, Beehive must have a licensed pharmacist on-site whenever their doors are open. The state even encourages patients to consult with pharmacists at every visit.
Although marijuana itself does not appear to encourage laziness, there is always the risk of a negative interaction when used with other drugs. This is yet another reason to consult with a pharmacist. A pharmacist is the most qualified person to advise about medical cannabis use and drug interaction.
If you are a potential patient and are worried about becoming a lazy stoner, you need not worry anymore. Numerous studies have shown that medical cannabis users do not succumb to the lazy stoner idea. This latest research out of Canada simply adds to a growing body of evidence.
