MARC LANDERS: Unlock the Brain's Self-Cleaning Mode: CBD Might Clear Out Harmful Proteins Linked to Neuro degeneration!

Amyloids…
Pay attention to cannabinoids https://t.co/sjkJtKBY5U

— Kevin McKernan (@Kevin_McKernan) December 25, 2024

Landers writes, 

Unlock the Brain's Self-Cleaning Mode: CBD Might Clear Out Harmful Proteins Linked to Neuro Degeneration!

The research shows that CBD (cannabidiol) helps kick-start the body's natural process of cleaning out damaged cells, known as autophagy, and it also decreases the amount of a protein called α-synuclein inside cells. This protein can build up and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's. 

And more,

Profe$$or Dunning Kruger MD™ PhD™ points out,

That's cool, but - if memory serves - isn't autophagy achieved by simple Intermittent Fasting (IF) or Time-Restricted Fasting (TRF)? Heat shock proteins (HSPs) from sauna use a different mechanism. Perhaps mTOR and AMPK. CBD may be convenient - but we have endogenous tools.

Landers answers, 

Yes, but there are other factors to consider. An individual's physiology can significantly influence which method might be a better alternative for inducing autophagy or achieving broader health benefits. 

Here's how: Metabolism and Energy Needs: People with different metabolic rates might respond differently to fasting. For instance, those with a faster metabolism might find it easier to enter a state where autophagy is triggered due to quicker depletion of glucose and glycogen stores. Conversely, individuals with slower metabolisms might need longer fasting periods or might benefit more from CBD if fasting is not feasible due to energy needs. 

Hormonal Responses: Hormonal profiles, including insulin sensitivity, can affect how well someone responds to fasting. Individuals with insulin resistance might not see the same benefits from fasting as those with better insulin sensitivity, potentially making alternatives like CBD or sauna use more appealing if they can manage blood sugar levels differently. 

Genetic Factors: Genetic variations can influence how individuals respond to different stimuli. For example, some people might have genetic predispositions that make them more or less responsive to the health benefits of CBD or have variations in heat shock proteins affecting sauna benefits. 

Stress and Recovery: Stress responses vary; some individuals might find that sauna use significantly reduces stress and thereby promotes autophagy through a different pathway (via HSPs), whereas others might find this method stressful or not beneficial. Similarly, fasting might be stressful for some, affecting its efficacy in promoting autophagy. 

Existing Health Conditions: Pre-existing conditions can dictate which method is safer or more beneficial. For example, someone with heart conditions might avoid extreme fasting or high-heat environments like saunas. Here, CBD might be considered for its potentially gentler approach if it aligns with their medication regimen. 

Body Composition: Lean individuals might react differently to fasting than those with higher body fat percentages, where fat cells might release more free fatty acids during fasting, influencing autophagy differently. 

Age: As we age, our bodies might respond differently to fasting, with older individuals potentially needing different durations or types of fasting to achieve similar effects. Similarly, the response to CBD or heat stress might vary with age due to changes in metabolism, hormone levels, and cellular repair mechanisms. 

Adaptation and Tolerance: Over time, individuals might develop a tolerance or adaptation to one method over another. For instance, regular sauna users might need to increase exposure time or temperature to achieve benefits, similar to how the body can adapt to fasting protocols. Then there's the added benefits of CBD. CBD has been studied for other potential benefits beyond autophagy, such as reducing anxiety, pain relief, anti-inflammatory effects, and possibly aiding in sleep. In the end, it might depend on the individual for various reasons, as to which or both, are best.