Marijuana
...drugs Whether alone or with other people, at home or at a party. THC is absorbed more slowly into the blood when marijuana is eaten as it has to pass through the stomach and intestine and can take up to one hour to experience the "high" effects which can last up to 12 hours. THC is absorbed quickly into body fat and is then released very slowly back into the blood. This process can take up to one month for a single dose of THC to fully leave the body. A nursing mother who uses marijuana passes some of the THC to the baby in her breast milk. Research indicates that the use of marijuana by a mother during the first month of breast-feeding can impair the infant's motor development (control of muscle movement). Research also shows more anger and more regressive behaviour (thumb sucking, temper tantrums) in toddlers whose parents use marijuana than among the toddlers of non-using parents. The harmful effects of marijuana on the Brain and Central Nervous System Impaired thinking, mood, memory, and coordination Marijuana (THC) is an extremely powerful and pleasurable intoxicant. It affects, alters, and damages brain cells controlling thinking, emotion, pleasure, coordination, mood and memory. The pituitary gland is also damaged which regulates hunger, thirst, blood pressure, sexual behavior, and release of sex hormones. Clogged synapses, brain damage and addiction Marijuana accumulates in the microscopic spaces between nerve cells in the brain called "synapses." This clogging interferes by slowing and impairing transfer critical information. Long-term use causes the brain to stop production of brain chemicals necessary to "feel good" - a negative feedback condition. And, the user becomes chemically addicted to marijuana. The harmful effects of marijuana on the Heart Speeds up heartbeat as much as 50% increases blood pressure, and poses great risk to those with hypertension and heart disease. The harmful effects of marijuana on the Endocrine System Marijuana damages the network of glands, organs, and hormones involved in growth and development, energy levels, and reproduction. Organs and glands affected: Pituitary gland Thyroid gland Stomach Duodenum Pancreas Adrenal glands Testis The harmful effects of marijuana on the Reproductive System males and females Marijuana use can decrease and degenerate sperm, sperm count, movement, and cause lowered sex drive. Females can have egg damage, suppression of ovulation; disrupt menstrual cycles, and alteration of hormone levels. Regular use during pregnancy can lower birth weight and cause abnormalities similar to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (small head, irritability, poor growth and development. Can destroy the number of chromosomes, resulting in cell abnormalities and impaired function. Other affects on the central nervous system D...