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Considering the Effects of Cannabinoids and Exercise on the Brain: A Narrative Review
Amir Yahya Rajaei1, J Patrick Neary1, Elizabeth S Thompson2
1Faculty of Kinesiology and Health Studies, University of Regina, 3737 Wascana Parkway, Regina, SK S4S 0A2, Canada.
Sports (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 26, 2025
Summary
Cannabis and exercise both impact brain health by influencing inflammation, vascular function, and neuroplasticity. Understanding their combined effects is crucial for optimizing therapeutic strategies in athletes and beyond.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Sports Medicine
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Growing interest in cannabis for brain health, especially in athletes.
- Cannabis interacts with the endogenous cannabinoid system, influencing brain function.
- Exercise is well-established for promoting brain health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the overlapping mechanistic effects of cannabinoids and exercise on brain health.
- To explore interactions relevant to athletic populations.
- To identify potential additive, synergistic, or opposing effects.
Main Methods:
- Narrative review of literature published since 2010.
- Broad search including clinical trials, observational studies, preclinical work, and reviews.
- Focus on physiological mechanisms: inflammation, vascular function, and neuroplasticity.
Main Results:
- Identified mechanistic overlaps between cannabinoid and exercise effects on brain function.
- Detailed description of common and contrasting influences.
- Highlighted potential for additive, synergistic, or opposing interactions.
Conclusions:
- Interactions between cannabinoids and exercise can significantly impact brain function.
- Considering these interactions is vital for therapeutic strategy optimization.
- This knowledge is increasingly relevant in sports science and clinical applications.
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