Objectives: This study examined dietary intakes and nutritional status of marijuana users and non-marijuana users using a national representative sample of U.S. adults 20 to 59 years old.
Methods: We used data from the Third National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III), 1988-1994. Information on self reported drug use, including marijuana, was obtained as part of the NHANES III physical examination component. Nutritional status was assessed using height and weight, and serum health indicators. Dietary intake was assessed using a 24 hour recall and a food frequency questionnaire.
Results: Among adults 20-59 years of age, 45% reported ever having used marijuana in their lifetime. A total of 8.7% reported using marijuana in the past month. Current marijuana users had higher intakes of energy and nutrients than non-marijuana users, however, body mass index (BMI) was slightly lower. We found higher cigarette-smoking rates and higher consumption of sodas and alcohol, specifically beer, among marijuana users than among non-marijuana users. Marijuana users also consumed more sodium, fewer fruit and vegetables, and more pork, beef, cheese, and salty snacks. Nutritional status, using indicators of BMI, serum nutrients, serum albumin, hematocrit and hemoglobin, was similar between marijuana users and non-marijuana users. Serum carotenoid levels were lower among marijuana users, independent of cigarette smoking.
Conclusion: Higher consumption of sodium, lower fruit and vegetable intake, lower serum carotenoid levels, higher alcohol intake, higher cigarette smoking and the carcinogenic effects of marijuana place marijuana users at a higher future risk for cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Learning Objectives: At the end of this presentation the participant will be able to: 1. Articulate the prevalence of marijuana use in US adults. 2. Describe dietary intakes of marijuana users and non-marijuana users in US adults 20 to 59 years old. 3. Evaluate the nutritional status of US adult marijuana users
Keywords: Marijuana, Nutrition
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.