Legalized Marijuana Linked to Increased Junk Food Consumption and ‘Couchlock’
TL/DR –
Research analyzing a decade’s worth of shopping data from 48 states revealed that legalizing marijuana led to a nearly 9% increase in junk food purchases and a 7% increase in money spent on junk food. The study also found that the number of physical outings to grocery stores decreased by 1% in states where marijuana was legalized, and residents of these states spent approximately 8 more minutes at home per day. The researchers highlighted potential public health implications, noting that increased junk food consumption and reduced mobility could contribute to long-term weight gain and conditions like diabetes and heart disease.
Impact of Marijuana Legalization on Shopping Habits and Lifestyle
Researchers have analyzed a decade of shopping data from 48 states, focusing on 20 million weekly household purchases from 2010 to 2020. They found out that food purchases, particularly junk food, rose by an average of 9% in states where marijuana was legalized. Expenditure on junk food increased by 7%, and shopping trips involving junk food purchases spiked by 4% in contrast to states where marijuana remained illegal. This indicates a significant uptick in snack cravings among the populations in states where marijuana consumption is legal.
In addition, the study also uncovered evidence of the phenomenon known as couchlock, associated with marijuana use. The term refers to the sedative effect of cannabis, which leads to a decline in physical outings, including grocery shopping, by approximately 1% in states legalizing marijuana. Studies supporting this conclusion are mentioned.
The researchers referenced the American Time Use Survey data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data revealed that between 2011 and 2021, Americans residing in states which legalized weed spent around 8 extra minutes daily at home compared to their counterparts in other states. They also spent less time outdoors, at work, in restaurants and gyms, with gym usage reportedly decreasing by about 18% post-decriminalization.
The study concluded that legalization of marijuana led to two significant changes in lifestyle – increased consumption of junk food and more time spent at home. The researchers caution policymakers about the potential public health implications of these changes. More snacking combined with less physical activity could contribute to long-term weight gain, making the population more susceptible to conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, and stroke.
These health conditions pose a financial burden to both individuals and society. As per the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, obesity-related healthcare costs in the US are nearly $173 billion annually. With a 2024 Gallup poll indicating that 17 percent of Americans use marijuana, this expense is expected to rise.
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