• How does Marijuana disrupt your sleep?

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    Marijuana, specifically THC, disrupts sleep by interfering with the REM (Rapid Eye Movement) stage, which is crucial for restorative sleep. THC can speed up the time it takes to fall asleep, which might make it attractive for those struggling with sleep onset. However, it comes with significant drawbacks. THC blocks REM sleep, leading to reduced dream occurrence during use. When people stop using THC, they often experience a "REM rebound," resulting in intense and vivid dreams as the brain tries to recover lost REM sleep, though it's unlikely to fully recoup the lost REM sleep 1 2.

    Furthermore, regular THC use can lead to tolerance and dependency, meaning users may need higher doses over time to achieve the same sleep-inducing effects. When users cease intake, they may face rebound insomnia and increased anxiety, highlighting significant withdrawal symptoms 1 2. This pattern is particularly concerning because it impacts the natural sleep architecture, diminishing the quality of sleep overall 3.

    While CBD, another component of cannabis, is not typically associated with these disruptions and may even offer some sleep-promoting benefits, the data is mixed, and effects can vary based on dosage and individual differences 4.

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