As cannabis becomes more popular and research on the plant increases, we’re increasingly finding out that it's chock-full of health benefits. With such a wide range of self reported and studied effects, many consumers are now wondering, does weed make you lose weight? Let’s explore the topic.
Does Weed Make You Lose Weight?
First and foremost, while there have been major studies on the general health effects of cannabis, so far there’s been little research conducted on its impact on weight loss. But from anecdotal evidence and real-time use, it seems there are some correlations between weight, appetite, and consuming cannabis.
In one study, experts found that “cannabinoids receptor antagonists” showed the ability to influence obesity and appetite. Another study found that overactive cannabinoid receptors were associated with obesity and metabolism-specific disorders.
A three-year study recently concluded that cannabis users are less likely to gain weight than non-cannabis users. But without conclusive and comprehensive evidence, the question, ‘why does weed make you lose weight?’ still remains.
Let’s explore some of the top reasons experts believe may be contributing to the correlation of weed use and weight loss.
Why Does Weed Make You Lose Weight? The Top Reasons
A few of the proven effects that come from the best strains of weed, are the same causes that experts cite might also be linked to weight loss. Here are the top benefits:
- Increased physical mobility - Cannabis is a natural anti-inflammatory agent, leading experts to speculate its ability to improve the condition of achy joints and soreness increases mobility.
- Decreased alcohol use - Research shows that cannabis consumers consume less alcohol, which eventually means less calories.
- Reduced stress levels - One of weed’s primary benefits is reducing stress and anxiety, which often contribute to gaining weight.
- Ability to boost metabolism - Through its interaction with CB1 receptors, consuming high levels of cannabis appears to boost metabolism and reduce the storage of energy in the body. As a result, consumers often show a lower BMI.
- Better sleep - Getting a good night’s rest is key to many optimal health benefits, including weight control. Research is indicating that cannabis is beneficial for promoting a sound period of rest.
Metabolism and obesity aren’t the only two weight-controlling physiological factors that cannabis possibly impacts. Research is also showing that weed affects appetite, too. It’s an observation you might agree with if you’ve ever experienced the munchies yourself.
To go deeper into ‘how does weed make you lose weight?’ Let's explore cannabis’ connection with hunger.
Cannabis and Hunger: The Connection
Let’s be honest, we’ve all hit the vape pen one too many times, and cleaned out the snack cupboard in one sitting. But that’s not the only proof that cannabis affects hunger. There’s a plethora of studies that prove cannabis’ effect on hunger is real.
When consuming cannabis, its cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). It’s a network of receptors that regulates crucial everyday functions, including appetite.
A scientific study discovered that this occurs due to cannabinoids’ influence on the CB1 receptors of the ECS. This receptor is mostly found in the brain and it plays a key part in the release of the hormone that increases food intake.
Even more, an animal study found that cannabis may trigger the production of ghrelin, which is an appetite-stimulating hormone. Between real-time use and actual research results, it’s fair to say that cannabis and hunger are connected.
Top Tips for Using Weed to Lose Weight
For some consumers, weight control or weight loss might just be a side-effect of their everyday cannabis use. Meanwhile, others may specifically seek out weed to lose weight.
It’s important to know that THC or tetrahydrocannabinol is the primary cannabinoid that interacts with the CB1 receptor. In fact, one study said, “THC may be a necessary accompaniment to cannabis-induced weight loss, because down-regulation of CB1 receptors is required for reduced BMI, and it is not yet clear whether microdosing will cause down-regulation.”
On the basis of this observation, our first tip would be to consume quality, THC-rich oils or concentrates. Cannabinoids may help with weight control, and highly refined oils and reliable vape batteries, such as the ones from O.pen, help deliver them in a balanced way.
Here are a couple of other tips:
- Take a tolerance break to down regulate your CB1 receptors for a period of one week or more.
- Consume a diet of omega-3 and omega-6 rich foods, which impact the ECS and CB1 receptors for additional weight control benefits.
What We Know So Far
All in all, we know too little to conclusively say cannabis positively affects weight loss. But there is some amount of proof to show that the plant has many effects, some of which could be related to weight loss.
If you’re using weed to lose weight, be cautious of strains that do stimulate appetite, and try to avoid them during periods where you may overeat (like late at night on the couch). It also helps to avoid overusing cannabis, which may result in lessened physical activity.
Does Weed Make You Lose Weight? Hard to Tell But the Signs are Good!
With what we know so far, is there enough evidence to clearly answer the question - does weed make you lose weight? There are multiple indications that it may spark weight loss, but we don’t know anything for sure. While the topic is quite complex, we’ve shared a number of studies that show a connection between cannabis and weight loss, through the ECS, and varying health effects.
Whenever you have questions like - does weed get old or does cannabis make you lose weight? - look no further than O.pen. It’s your one-stop-shop for all things vape, and also the education you need to consume more consciously.
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