Doctors and researchers have linked cannabis to heart risks over the last few years in various papers and synopses. Two studies were released last week, adding to the mounting evidence that pot use could be connected to heart attacks.
The connection between heart health and weed is somewhat new. Some medical doctors point to smoking, while others believe that THC plays a role. There is much left to be discovered before Western medicine accepts diagnostic criteria for cannabis-caused heart events. While they catch up, one company is getting in front of the issue in the form of heart-healthy gummies.
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Genistein, cannabis, and heart health
Janey is a heart health supplement explicitly designed for cannabis consumers. Co-founders Brendan Conn and Chris Clifford explained their drive to craft the niche product with GreenState.
“As passionate advocates, we wanted to create a product specifically designed for cannabis users, and one that enhances the experience while mitigating potential health risks, ensuring people can continue to enjoy its benefits safely,” Conn said.
To meet this goal, Janey utilizes the power of genistein. The plant compound is widely found in soybeans, soy products, some veggies, and legumes like lentils. It is currently used in pharmaceuticals to aid patients with low bone density and as a cancer cell inhibitor. Preclinical research indicates some cardiovascular potential, too–plus a few potential drawbacks like lower sperm count.
Janey gummies aim to harness the cardioprotective power of genistein. One blue, gumdrop-shaped candy contains the plant compound plus 15 micrograms (mcg) of Vitamin D and five mcg of vitamin b12. The candies are sweetened with tapioca syrup and cane sugar. They are colored with natural plant dye.
Directions state that those who inhale cannabis should take one Janey gummy one to two hours before they get lit. Anyone eating their weed is instructed to take a Janey at the same time. As always, everyone should consult their doctors before adding a new supplement to their diet. This is especially true for people taking medications since contraindications are possible.
How Janey heart healthy gummies work
Inspiration for the preventative cannabis product came from researcher Dr. Alexander Schering after he spoke about THC and genistein on a podcast. Dr. Schering introduced a concerning Stanford Medicine paper demonstrating that THC may damage the cardiovascular system. Genistein may block those unwanted effects without negating the effects of weed.
“Alexander intriguingly pointed out that this might be a game changer for the cannabis industry,” said Clifford. “Creating a genistein-based supplement might be a way for cannabis users to enjoy the psychedelic benefits of cannabis while mitigating unwanted risks to the heart.”
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Many cannabis advocates and connoisseurs are adamant that the plant can do no harm, but, as always, too much of a good thing may lead to issues. In the weed world, issues like cannabis hyperemesis syndrome (CHS) and heart health are at the forefront of things to watch out for with regular use.
While some debate their existence, others are crafting methods to avoid these issues while still enjoying the benefits of weed. That is what Janey seems to be up to, and it is not done yet. The co-founders teased two new products in the works aimed at two other potential stoner health risks coming soon.
Those who smoke weed should be aware of the possible impact on their cardiovascular systems. Heart health is instrumental to living a full, long life, after all. With so many stoners eating garden gummies these days, why not throw a preventative gumdrop into the mix?
