By PAGE Editor

One of the lesser-known benefits of cannabis is its potential to aid in weight loss. While it may seem counterintuitive that it is often associated with the munchies that could help you shed pounds, the science behind the phenomenon is fascinating. 

With the ability to buy cannabis online in Canada, it's easier to explore this versatile plant's weight loss benefits. Read on to find out how cannabis may help you lose weight, whether you're a fitness fan who wants to make more progress or just interested in what it can do.

Can Cannabis Help in Weight Loss?

Did you know that cannabis can potentially aid in weight loss? Contrary to the common belief that marijuana users are always hungry and lethargic, scientists have discovered the potential of cannabis and its compounds while studying conditions such as glucose levels, cardiovascular health, epilepsy, and chronic illnesses.

Cannabis contains compounds like THC, CBD, and terpenes, which can interact with the body's endocannabinoid system (ECS) to regulate metabolism and potentially aid in weight loss. The ECS is responsible for maintaining balance in the body, including appetite and metabolism. 

Studies have shown that THC can increase the release of a hormone called ghrelin, which can stimulate appetite, but it can also help with the sensation of fullness and reduce overall food intake. Conversely, CBD has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects, which can potentially help with weight loss.

BMI and Weed

People who use cannabis typically have lower body mass indices (BMIs) than those who do not, according to a journal on Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research that examined 17 studies. Adult men and women can use the BMI method to calculate their body fat by dividing their height and weight.

The average BMI of cannabis users was about 3 pounds lower than non-users. Furthermore, frequent cannabis use may lower BMI. However, it's worth noting that BMI is not a reliable measure of a person's activity level, muscle-to-fat ratio, or physical build. Therefore, many medical professionals regard it as an obsolete health indicator.

Frequent cannabis users, as well as even occasional consumers, have lower obesity rates despite consuming more calories than non-users. On average, cannabis users consume 834 more calories per day than non-users.

Cannabis and Metabolism

In 2020, a small study from Translational Psychiatry Journal on regular cannabis users found various markers related to metabolism in their blood after use. This may be due to the effect of cannabis on the endocannabinoid system, which plays a role in regulating sleep, pain, memory, immune responses, and appetite.

The activation of the cannabinoid receptor type 1 by THC impacts body weight. A study from the Journal of Cannabis Research on obese mice suggests blocking this receptor could decrease body weight and fat levels. However, while THC activates the receptor, another cannabinoid called THCV may be able to block it without causing psychoactive effects. 

CBD may also be useful in reducing appetite and increasing feelings of fullness. In a Clinical Drug Investigation Journal study, participants who received CBD treatment experienced a drop in BMI.

By using premium hand-curated cannabis and accessories, you can take advantage of these potential weight loss benefits.

In addition, the researchers discovered that minor reductions in appetite occurred with smaller doses of CBD, while more significant appetite suppression in larger doses.

How You Can Lose Weight With Cannabis

There are other ways that cannabis can help with weight loss, in addition to its ability to help with appetite suppression and maintaining BMI, thanks to components like CBD and THCV.

Increase Mobility

Cannabis can alleviate pain and stiffness symptoms in individuals, improving mobility. For people with mobility issues, cannabis may enable them to be more physically active by reducing pain and stiffness. This can result in a better quality of life, as regular physical activity can improve physical and mental health outcomes. 

Some individuals may find that using cannabis before engaging in physical activity can enhance their performance, as they feel more relaxed and focused.

Reduce Alcoholic Intake

Cannabis might reduce alcohol consumption, particularly among younger individuals. In addition, some people might use cannabis instead of alcohol, which could lower alcohol consumption. 

Choosing cannabis over alcohol could have additional advantages beyond potential weight loss. For example, people may be able to lower their chance of developing different health issues by choosing to use cannabis rather than alcohol.

Reduce Stress

Stress eating is a prevalent phenomenon many individuals experience when feeling anxious or stressed. People are more likely to overeat and consume comfort foods when experiencing stress, resulting in weight gain and other adverse health outcomes. 

Cannabis possesses anxiety-reducing properties that can promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. Cannabis can help calm the mind and provide a sense of well-being, replacing the urge to stress eat.

Improve Sleep

Lack of sleep can significantly impact overall health and well-being, including contributing to weight gain. People who get insufficient sleep have a higher probability of putting on weight than individuals who get sufficient sleep.

Cannabis benefits sleep, particularly for individuals with insomnia or difficulty falling asleep. It can improve both the quality and amount of sleep by reducing the time required to fall asleep and lengthening the period of deep, restorative sleep.

What About the Munchies?

Consuming cannabis can lead to a surge of hunger, commonly known as "the munchies," which can benefit individuals who struggle to eat, such as those with HIV/AIDS or undergoing cancer treatment. 

Nina Cluny and colleagues' animal study revealed that persistent or daily THC use inhibits weight and fat growth, even though early THC use can boost appetite and eating. This effect is also observed in humans, as regular cannabis users typically have lower BMIs and reduced rates of obesity, despite consuming more calories.

Conclusion

Ongoing research suggests that cannabis may positively impact weight management by regulating appetite and metabolism. Still, some studies suggest that cannabis can help regulate appetite and metabolism, positively impacting weight management. However, cannabis should not be a "quick fix" for weight loss. Instead, use cannabis moderately with a healthy lifestyle (balanced diet and regular exercise) for achieving and maintaining a healthy weight.

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