Often, smoking marijuana is associated with an increase in appetite. However, new studies have brought to light a different perspective of the use of marijuana. It has been proven that regular use of marijuana can help in lose weight. Despite cannabis' tendency to induce cravings for unhealthy foods, regular smokers of marijuana have lower BMIs consistently and have fewer chances of developing metabolic disorders like diabetes.
A study conducted in 2013 revealed that current users of marijuana have a 16 percent lower fasting insulin levels as well as lower levels of insulin resistance compared to nonusers. The same study showed that marijuana users have smaller waist circumference and lower BMI scores than users.
Another study conducted in 2015 revealed that the use of medical marijuana affects obesity in that the users had a two to six percent decrease in obesity. For Individuals that use medical marijuana for pain relief or arthritis, the increase in mobility can be associated with the weight loss.
It has also been shown that cannabis lowers cortisol. Normally, there is a direct correlation between weight gain and high-stress levels. Regular smoking of marijuana can be a great way of reducing stress. CBD has been shown to reduce cortisol which is the stress-causing hormone.
The Weight Loss Benefits of Cannabis
There are many benefits of using marijuana that contribute to a healthy weight. The receptors, cannabinoids and the strain all play an essential part in how marijuana can affect your body weight.
Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) and Weight Loss
The THCV is a cannabinoid that is found in high levels in the sativa strains. The THCV could be used as a potential treatment for obesity-linked glucose intolerance. This can be supported by a study that was conducted in 2013 on mice that were fed with 10mg of THCV once. The study showed a reduction in the level of glucose in the mice. Glucose intolerance is a symptom of type 2 diabetes which, if lowered can result in weight loss.
Cannabinoid Receptors and Weight Loss
Normally, there are CB2 receptors in the peripheral nervous system, the immune system, and metabolically active tissue. The THC activates the CB2 receptors but produces different side effects than when it activates CB1 receptors. The activation of the cannabinoid receptors reduces appetite and prevents the buildup of body fats. This may be the reason why marijuana users are less likely to develop metabolic syndrome than non-users.
CBD and Weight Loss
According to a 2012 study, cannabidiol or CBD which is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid found in marijuana acts as an appetite suppressant. This can help significantly in weight loss.
The use of cannabis for weight loss. This is especially true if you use any strains that are high in either THCV or CBD.
