It’s Wednesday, March 18. Today, we’re diving into the big health headlines and breaking down what they actually mean for your daily routine.

On the radar today:

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A new research review in Lancet Psychiatry reveals that marijuana does not effectively treat anxiety, depression, or PTSD. After analyzing 54 trials, researchers found no evidence that any form of cannabis improves these conditions — even though they remain widely prescribed for them, notes lead author Jack Wilson.

Dr. Deepak Cyril D’Souza, director of the Yale Center for the Science of Cannabis and Cannabinoids, tells CNN that the amount of THC (the plant’s psychoactive component) in marijuana has surged from 4% in the 1970s to an average of 20% today. This high potency is driving Cannabis Use Disorder — approximately 3 in 10 users now meet the criteria for addiction. Daily consumption of high-potency cannabis is also linked to a nearly 6 times increase in the risk of developing psychotic disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, says Wilson. 

Read More: The link between cannabis and psychosis in teens. 

🗞️ A new report in the Annals of Internal Medicine suggests that 11% of older adults with slightly high blood pressure (Stage-1 hypertension), primarily women in their 60s, might be able to safely hold off their medications if they have no other cardiovascular risk factors. Report authors say the recommendation for lower-risk patients should be focused on lifestyle changes. 

🗞️ Heavy consumption of ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) can drastically increase the risk of heart disease, says a new study in JACC: Advances. Researchers found that people who ate nine daily servings face a 67% higher risk of heart attack, stroke, or cardiovascular death compared to those eating just one. 

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🥤 What Does It Take For A “Plastic Detox”?

Can ditching Tupperware actually help you conceive? That’s the premise of the new Netflix documentary, ‘The Plastic Detox’ — it follows couples with unexplained infertility who swapped plastic for glass and toothpaste tabs with metal casings to get pregnant. Three couples were able to become pregnant after 12 weeks of minimizing exposure. But the NYT cautions that this isn't a scientific study since it’s nearly impossible to prove cause and effect with such a small group. 

Also, we can’t entirely cut out plastics from our lives, but meaningful changes to minimize exposure do count. Here’s how to do it, by The Guardian. 

💊 Time To Toss Out These 5 Meds 

About time we clean our medicine cabinet as well, Gastroenterologist Trisha Pasricha writes for The Washington Post. She notes that science has moved on from several long-time staples, including daily aspirin for seniors (bleeding risks now outweigh the benefits) and phenylephrine (which the FDA says works no better than a placebo). Colace, Benadryl for older adults, and that dusty bottle of codeine cough syrup need to go too. 

💧 How Old Is Too Old?

Before you chug the half-empty glass of water on your nightstand from the night before, consider this. HuffPost says you should follow the 12-hour rule: after half a day, bacteria from the tap or your mouth can begin to multiply. One-day-old water likely won't kill you, but it’s safer to dump it and start fresh to avoid, as Microbiologist Jason Tetro tells the publication, a breeding ground for pathogens.

🍳 A Protein Check For You 

Some might swear by peanut butter and eggs as their only source of protein — although those are actually just secondary sources. A SELF feature tracks 9 such daily staples that you’ll see masquerading as high-protein snacks: peanut butter is mostly healthy fat, quinoa is mostly carbs, and a single egg only gives you six grams (you’d need more to surpass your daily goals). Expert advice is to treat these as add-ons and pair them with complete sources. 

📢 Rough week? It’s time to let it all out.

Scream clubs are popping across the country to let you wail your worries out in the wind. It isn’t really a medical cure; however, experts tell AP News why it could be an effective stress reliever that mimics what you might feel after a hard workout. Simply grounded and calm! The BBC has another set of reasons why you could benefit from this “scream therapy”. 

If you can’t find a club to join, find a private spot (or a heavy pillow) and let it rip.

🥘 There is nothing better than a plan that allows for cooking once and eating twice, and healthy. Jessica Ball’s 9x13 Mediterranean Plan for EatingWell is exactly that — a week of dinners that come together in a single baking dish. Plus, you’ll have ample leftovers for next day’s lunch. 

The Perk: One pan means minimal cleanup; plenty of grab-and-go options. 

Health Food: Each dish has heart-healthy fats, lean proteins, and fiber-rich veggies to keep you energized throughout the day. 

Thanks for reading! At The Blue & Green Letter, we track wellness trends and health essentials every day, bringing you one well-curated update to help you live well and stay informed.

Disclaimer: The information shared here is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Our content is sourced from reputable health publications and government data. Readers are encouraged to review the original articles and consult a qualified healthcare professional before making health-related decisions.