Cannabis is often associated with stimulating appetite, so the idea of using it for weight loss may seem counterintuitive. However, there is some evidence that marijuana can actually help people lose weight. So now may be the time to look for a medical marijuana card online.
One reason for this is that marijuana can help to reduce stress and anxiety. Stress and anxiety are often associated with overeating, so reducing these feelings can help people to eat less. Additionally, marijuana can help to improve sleep quality. Sleep deprivation can also lead to overeating, so improving sleep can help people to regulate their appetites.
Finally, some studies have shown that marijuana can increase metabolism. This means that people who use marijuana may burn more calories, even when they are at rest.
Of course, more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between marijuana and weight loss. However, the available evidence suggests that marijuana may be a promising treatment for obesity.
Keep reading along to learn more about losing weight with medical cannabis.
Understanding the Relationship Between Cannabis and Obesity?
THC, the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, has long been associated with weight gain. However, a study conducted on obese mice suggests that the impact of the munchies may not be as severe as commonly believed.
In the study, obese mice were treated with THC for four weeks. Surprisingly, the heavier mice experienced weight loss. The key difference lay in the method of administration. While humans typically inhale marijuana, these mice were given THC orally.
The researchers hypothesized that oral ingestion of THC altered the gut flora of the mice, leading to weight loss. The intestinal microbiome has become an area of intense scientific research due to its potential influence on various aspects of behavior and bodily functions.
This finding is supported by the observation that long-term marijuana users, despite experiencing the munchies, appear to have a lower prevalence of obesity compared to non-smokers. They also exhibit a lower incidence of metabolic syndrome, a cluster of symptoms that increases the risk of obesity, diabetes, and other weight-related health issues.
In a survey involving 8,500 respondents, individuals were asked about obesity and their marijuana use. It was found that 14% of marijuana users had metabolic syndrome, while the figure stood at 22% for non-smokers.
These findings suggest that there may be a link between THC and weight loss. However, more research is needed to understand the mechanism behind this effect and to determine how much and for how long marijuana consumption would be necessary to observe a significant change in metabolic syndrome.
How does it Work?
If we look at the standard diet of the American people, it is characterized by high sugar and refined starch intake, disrupting the balance between Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids.
Omega-6 fatty acids in the body can be turned into cannabinoids 2-AG, and AEA which activate CB1 receptors responsible for regulating both metabolism and appetite.
Elevated levels of omega-6/omega-3 ratio can easily upset this balance, resulting in excessive production of AEA and 2-AG. Consequently, CB1 receptors become overstimulated, leading to disrupted appetite control and metabolic dysfunction.
THC, the active compound in cannabis, possesses the ability to down-regulate CB1 receptor activity. While marijuana initially stimulates CB1 receptors, causing the infamous “munchies,” its effect quickly transitions to a much long-lasting behavior in a down-regulated state.
In essence, THC modulates CB1 receptor activity, helping to counterbalance the impact of the standard American diet on the omega-6/omega-3 ratio and influencing appetite and metabolic functions.
By down-regulating CB1 receptor activity, THC reduces the sensitivity of these receptors to AEA and 2-AG. This modulation can contribute to improved appetite regulation and metabolism.
This theory sheds light on how medical marijuana and cannabis-based drugs like Marinol can increase appetite and weight gain in patients with anorexia or wasting caused by medical conditions or treatments while promoting weight loss in other patients.
Patients transitioning from a low-calorie diet to a higher-calorie diet may experience weight gain when using cannabis, as their bodies are adjusting to the increased calorie intake. However, individuals who regularly consume a healthy or excessive amount of calories may experience a more efficient calorie-burning or storage process due to cannabis use.
Further research is necessary to validate this theory and explore the long-term effects of cannabis use on appetite and metabolism. Nonetheless, these findings suggest that cannabis holds promise as a potential treatment for mitigating the negative consequences of the standard American diet.
How to Incorporate Cannabis for Weight Loss?
Losing weight is a personal journey, and it’s important to consider your specific needs and medical history. Before making any decisions, it’s essential to consult with your doctor to determine the best plan for you. If you’re considering integrating cannabis into your weight-loss strategy, here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Talk to your doctor. It’s always a good idea to talk to your doctor before making any major changes to your diet or exercise routine. They can help you assess your individual needs and risks, and make sure that cannabis is a safe and effective option for you.
- Explore different cannabinoids. THC is the most well-known cannabinoid, but there are many others that may have different effects on appetite and metabolism. Some cannabinoids, like CBD and THCV, have been shown to suppress appetite, while others may boost metabolism. Experiment with different strains to find one that works best for you.
- Incorporate exercise. Exercise is essential for weight loss, and cannabis can be a great way to motivate yourself to get moving. Some people find that cannabis helps them focus and push themselves harder during workouts, while others use it to relieve pain and soreness afterward.
- Eat a healthy diet. A healthy diet is essential for overall health and well-being, and it’s also important for weight loss. Make sure to include plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains in your diet, and limit processed foods and sugary drinks.
- Seek professional advice. If you’re serious about using cannabis for weight loss, it’s a good idea to seek professional advice from a doctor or other healthcare provider. They can help you create a personalized plan that’s safe and effective for you.
- Remember, cannabis is not a magic bullet for weight loss. It’s important to combine it with other healthy lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise. If you’re not sure where to start, talk to your doctor. They can help you create a plan that’s right for you.