As marijuana legalization expands and research continues, more therapeutic applications for marijuana are discovered. One surprising find is that cannabis appears to support weight loss—despite the widespread assumption that the “munchies” can lead to weight gain.
Obesity is common in the United States; these days, about 42 percent of the country’s population is obese. The root causes of obesity include an unhealthy diet, a lack of physical activity and genetics. But the anti-diet movement is gaining momentum, as more research shows that the Body Mass Index (or the measure of body fat in relation to height and weight) is an outdated method for measuring health; however, there are some instances where weight loss can be beneficial. When someone is predisposed or experiencing symptoms of health conditions like heart disease, stroke, diabetes and cancer, weight management may help to improve health status. And with that in mind, new research shows that compounds in marijuana could be used to safely help with weight loss.
How can marijuana be beneficial for weight loss?
Cannabis can naturally reduce appetite and increase energy. It interacts with our endocannabinoid system, which has receptors in our brain, organs, tissues, glands and skin. Research shows that the cannabinoid receptors CB1 and CB2 regulate our metabolism and prompt hormonal changes that enhance the way we process food. Marijuana supports other health lifestyle changes as well. Up to 42 percent of medical marijuana patients reduced their alcohol intake after starting to consume cannabis.
How does cannabis help to regulate appetite?
Research suggests that cannabinoids tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and cannabidiol (CBD) play key roles.
The infamous “munchies” are caused by the most well-known cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC stimulates the CB1 receptor, which increases appetite and causes the euphoric high and sedative effects of marijuana. On the other hand, THCV blocks the CB1 receptor to produce the opposite effects of THC, including reduced appetite and increased energy and focus.
The unique effects of THCV are making it known as the “weight loss cannabinoid.” Studies show that THCV suppresses appetite, increases insulin sensitivity and reduces lipid levels, making it a potential treatment for obesity and metabolic syndromes. THCV also causes cognitive changes that increase focus and conscious decision-making—a state of mind that encourages healthier food and activities.
Only recently gaining popularity, THCV is still rare and difficult to find. Most growers haven’t been breeding for it like they do the more well-known THC and CBD. THCV is primarily found in landrace Sativa strains originating in Africa, like Durban Poison.
How are CBD and “brown fat” related?
There are several ways that CBD encourages weight loss. One of the unique benefits is that it promotes the browning of fat cells. Brown fat, also known as adipose tissue, helps to regulate your body’s temperature. Brown fat stores energy in a smaller space than white fat, and it burns calories through a process called thermogenesis (this means the fat is burned by the dissipation of energy through the production of heat). White fat cells can be “browned” as a form of weight loss, and studies show that CBD may promote this outcome. Other natural ways to increase brown fat cells include vigorous exercise and taking cold showers or baths.
Wana Fit THCV Gummies
One of the first products on the market that features both THCV and CBD is Wana Fit gummies. The cannabis gummies are fast-acting and non-psychoactive and safe for daily consumption, with minimal side effects.
Wana designed the gummies to create a calm and clear-headed experience. The combined effects of CBD and THCV provide anxiety relief while increasing energy and reducing appetite. The most successful approach to consuming weed for weight loss is to use it as a long-term tool rather than a quick-fix solution.
Get Your Medical Document and Purchase Medical Cannabis
It’s easy to get your medical document with online Telehealth service HelloMD. Register, pay and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed partitioner and purchase medical cannabis today.
