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Even long-term cannabis users can grapple with the effects of marijuana-induced brain fog, which can be attributed largely to the frequency and quantity of their cannabis consumption, as well as the THC content and potency of the cannabis they choose

Marijuana brain is characterized by this clouded and groggy feeling that can make you feel drowsy and unfocused. You may feel like your head is in the sky.

This feeling can feel impossible to shake, but goes away after a period of time. A little sleep could do the trick, depending on the level of consumption. But, even with that, you may be in a social situation where clarity is essential. What do you do then?

The mental fog can turn out to be a negative outcome, if you don't know how to manage it. Marijuana brain fog usually feels as if you are a second behind everyone else.

In other words, you feel a bit slow about what is going on around you and your short attention span can rival that of a goldfish. However, there is good news. It is only temporary and won't last forever.

While it can be annoying or embarrassing when it happens, there are ways to avoid the fog. We have compiled several things you can do to stay mentally sharp.

What Is Brain Fog?

Brain fog refers to a set of symptoms that can impair your ability to think. And, it's not just marijuana that can cause this mental state. In this state, you may feel confused, disorganized, and unfocused. It can be hard to form your thoughts or even speak.

Common causes of brain fog also include:

  • Pregnancy
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Medication
  • Cancer and cancer treatment
  • Menopause
  • Chronic fatigue syndrome
  • Depression
  • Sleep disorder
  • Lupus
  • Stress
  • Diet

Any of these causes can make marijuana brain fog more likely. If you suspect your brain fog is caused by any of the causes listed above, consult with your doctor to determine a proper treatment program.

Do not immediately assume that your brain fog is due to cannabis consumption. There can be other factors at play. However, if you're fairly certain that your brain fog only comes after consuming cannabis, there are ways to relieve this and improve your mental clarity.

Cannabis can cause marijuana brain fog due to the THC content. Higher THC cannabis is more likely to cause brain fog.

Cannabis consumption can leave users feeling mentally and physically slower, although they may also experience its therapeutic benefits, too. Brain fog can last well beyond the moment of consumption.

Some users can experience a mild form of fogginess for a day or several days after consuming cannabis. This is especially common in heavy, frequent users, since THC can be stored in the fat cells and be gradually released back into the bloodstream.

While cannabis research is still in its infancy, most studies have found that cannabis causes cognitive decline, especially with long-term usage.

Cannabis abuse can come with higher cognitive decline compared to non abusers. Knowing how to consume cannabis in moderation is one of the best ways to avoid its negative cognitive effects.

Beverages to Help with Brain Fog

When you feel as if you have marijuana brain fog, it is best to reach for something to drink (except for alcohol). It could be juice, soda, water, or coffee. But, why would you want to do that? Well, increasing your blood sugar is an excellent way to boost your attentiveness.

The beverages help to surge your energy and make you feel more invigorated. Light snacks are also good to add. If you are a coffee lover, get a hot cup of java or make some iced tea if the day is very hot. This could put you in an upbeat mood.

However, try not to drink too much because it could make you feel jittery because of the caffeine, and who wants to be jittery and groggy; all at the same time?

Pro tip: If you suffer from chronic inflammation, avoid consuming sugary drinks. Refined sugar can increase the risk of chronic inflammation.

CBD Inhalation For Marijuana Brain Fog

One other way to deal with cannabis brain fog is to use a vaporizer with high levels of cannabidiol (CBD) strains. This is one of the most efficient and fastest ways to lower the feelings caused by a marijuana brain fog.

It can take only five minutes to reduce those feelings. CBD is believed to have calming effects, even in small doses, so it can aid you in reducing social stress caused by brain fog.

CBD can give you a sense of wakefulness and energize you. It can clear the fog, so to speak. More importantly, it can have a synergistic impact with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in a strain, extract, or infused product, which subsequently helps to reduce any feelings of drowsiness and confusion.

Pro tip: Don't have a CBD vape on hand? No problem. A CBD tincture or edible can work. Edibles and tinctures can take a couple hours to kick in. Sublingual administration (under the tongue) of a CBD tincture can take effect within 15 minutes.

Drink Water

Water also helps to center your body and provides hydration. When you drink water during a marijuana brain fog, it can make a whole lot of difference to how you feel. Even mild dehydration can impair cognitive function, so you want to keep water handy at all times.

Smoking weed reduces the secretion of saliva in your mouth producing dry mouth, also known as cottonmouth. Drinking water gives the reverse reaction. It also increases your cognitive functions at a time when you need it most. When you drink water, it gives you back your mental clarity and helps with brain health.

Take a Walk

Consider taking a walk to get oxygen back into your brain, so you don't feel so sluggish. Brain cells are very sensitive to a lack of oxygen and can die off if they are deprived of it for long. Fresh air filling up your lungs outside is one way to begin.

It can be hard to feel motivated to take a walk, especially if you consume a couch-locking strain such as an indica, a strain with high levels of cannabinol (CBN), and sleep-inducing terpenes such as myrcene, beta-caryophyllene, and linalool.

Pro tip: Can't take a walk around your neighborhood for whatever reason? That's okay. You can increase your brain’s oxygen levels with a few deep breathing exercises.

Take a Nap

You could also take a nap, if that is possible. Getting enough sleep is very important for brain health. Find a comfortable spot on your couch or bed to lay down, close your eyes, and focus on your breathing. Mental fatigue can occur when you do not get enough sleep.

Try to find a quiet place, so you can get a nap in and feel rejuvenated afterward. Look for the best strains for night time use when choosing your cannabis. Many strains can help with cognitive impairment, bud function, nervous system issues, cognitive dysfunction, body temperature, and cloudy thinking.

drawing of head with marijuana leaf in it, how to deal with marijauna brain fog

How to Avoid Marijuana Brain Fog

If you consume cannabis and you feel like it is hindering your ability to think, you don't have to quit cold turkey. There are few ways to reduce or completely avoid the feelings of brain fog after cannabis consumption.

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

  • Be aware of the dosage you are consuming. Too much can leave you feeling stuck in a fog.
  • If you believe large doses are causing your brain fog, take a short tolerance break and then start off with the lowest dose possible and gradually build up until you find your desired effects with no or minimal brain fog.
  • Experiment with different products. Edibles may be more intense than vapes or flower. In addition, some strains may be more sedating and cause more brain fog than others. Consider the concentration and types of cannabinoids and terpenoids in your product, too.
  • Keep a consumption journal to track how you feel with certain products and strains. Make note of the time of day, dosage amount, consumption method, and other feelings that can help you avoid brain fog in the future.
  • If you want to use cannabis and understand that you can experience some mild delay in your cognitive function, you can time when you choose to experience this. Avoid consuming cannabis before you perform a task that requires focus.
  • Brain fog can be due to a number of lifestyle and genetic factors. Health experts recommend at least 7 to 9 hours of sleep, 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week, and eating a well-balanced diet full of veggies, whole grains, and fruits. Embracing a holistic lifestyle can help you keep your mind sharp.

Ultimately, brain fog is a fleeting feeling that can occur if you consume too much or the wrong type of cannabis for you. If you do happen to feel like your brain is not as quick as others after consuming cannabis, it does not necessarily mean that cannabis is not right for you. If using cannabis, look for THCV strains for helping reduce stress and anxiety.

Brain Fog Test

You can do a brain fog test and see the degree of brain fog you might have.

There are brain fog cognitive quizzes that you can find online that will ask you questions about your degree of feelings such as; tiredness, confusion, disorientation, slowed thinking, getting distracted easily, forgetfulness, and losing your train of thought.

Vitamins For Brain Fog

There are supplements for brain fog that may help get rid of its effects. Vitamins for brain fog can be found online. Nutrient deficiency, food allergy, weight loss, lack of sleep, hot flashes, and memory loss can all happen with a lack of vitamins in the daily diet. Some of the best supplements for brain fog are:

Vitamin D

Vitamin C

L-theanine

Magnesium

Omega 3's

B Complex

Weed Brain Fog FAQ's

What causes brain fog after using marijuana?

The psychoactive component of cannabis, THC, causes brain fog following consumption. THC regulates mood, memory, appetite, and pain via the brain's endocannabinoid system. Cognitive and neurological changes can cause brain fog in some people.

How long does cannabis brain fog last?

Personal marijuana brain fog duration varies. Some may feel it for a few hours after the high wears off. Some, especially frequent or high-dose cannabis users, feel foggy for days. This cognitive haze may last longer for chronic users but fades with cessation.

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Can marijuana brain fog be permanent?

Most marijuana brain fog is temporary. Continuous cannabis abstinence may improve cognitive performance, according to research. Though studies is ongoing and divided, heavy use may cause longer-term cognitive problems.

Are there ways to clear brain fog more quickly?

Yes, various methods may reduce brain fog faster:
-Drink water to stay hydrated.
-Get enough sleep to heal your brain.
-Exercise regularly to improve cerebral blood flow and cognition.
-Healthy eating supports brain health by providing antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids.
-Reduce or stop cannabis use to reset your body.

Does everyone get brain fog from marijuana?

Not all marijuana users experience cognitive fog. Brain fog is affected by biology, cannabis potency (particularly THC), frequency and amount used, and tolerance.

Are certain strains of marijuana less likely to cause brain fog?

Users say that strains with a greater CBD to THC ratio are less likely to create brain fog because CBD does not have psychoactive effects and may decrease THC's cognitive effects. Individual sensitivities vary, and more research is needed to properly understand how cannabis strains affect brain fog.

Is brain fog a sign of marijuana addiction or withdrawal?

Addiction and withdrawal are not always linked to brain fog. If you're experiencing brain fog, a strong desire to use cannabis despite negative effects, or withdrawal symptoms including irritability, mood swings, and sleep disruptions, you may have cannabis use disorder.

Enroll In Cannabis College Online for Brain Fog

Get certified online as a cannabis grower, budtender, cannabis extraction technician, cannabis chef, dispensary manager, and more at the leading cannabis college.

Learn much more about how to deal with a marijuana brain fog and other cannabis side effects with online cannabis education at the leading marijuana university: the Cannabis Training University.

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Gavin Kushman

Gavin is a worldly adventurer and cannabis connoisseur, embarking on journeys that take him to the far corners of the globe to explore and document the varied effects, flavors, and histories of both renowned and lesser-known strains. From the misty high-altitude farms of the Hindu Kush highlands to the vibrant cannabis cafes of Amsterdam, Gavin's quest for knowledge spans continents. A recognized authority in the cannabis industry, he frequently lends his expertise to leading publications such as Cannabis Training University, where his captivating blog articles chronicle his unique experiences with different cannabis strains.

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