Although cannabis is most popular for its psychoactive and therapeutic benefits, it is equally notorious for its effects on appetite.

For anyone who's ever tried smoking cannabis, you may be familiar with the munchies effect. This boost in appetite has given weed a reputation for inspiring late-night snacking and overindulging in your favorite treats. Does weed impact weight gain?

The answer to this question may surprise you.

Cannabis has an interesting relationship with our body's metabolism and thus has its own unique effect on stimulating and curbing appetite.

Though there's still much research required before any definitive claims can be made, there's a compelling amount of evidence to show cannabis may actually play a role in stabilizing body composition.

Before we break down the body composition effects of weed, let’s cover the basics of how cannabis can promote a healthy lifestyle. 

Understanding the Relationship Between Weed and Weight Gain

The reason weed has the potential to help manage weight likely stems from the way its active ingredients interact with the body’s nervous system.

Cannabis interacts with the primary parts of our brain and nervous system that control crucial processes for hormone regulation, mood stability, memory, stress and pain management, and appetite.

Cannabis acts as an anti-inflammatory aid, soothing the body while also bringing the body closer to homeostasis (optimal function).

Interestingly, some studies and research have linked cannabis use to a lower body weight in certain users, suggesting an intriguing aspect of how it may influence metabolism and calorie intake.

All of these factors contribute to how cannabis is an excellent option for regulating many of the processes that affect body composition, as well as recovery and pain management.

Cannabis supports a healthy lifestyle in a multitude of ways

In simpler terms, weed is a great natural option for enhancing favorite physical activities, soothing your muscles and joints, aiding in restful sleep, and keeping your appetite healthy and in check.

Each of these factors makes cannabis an intriguing option for anyone looking to manage their weight and well-being in a more mild and natural manner.

To better understand this, let's dive into some of the research that's already been done on cannabis and weight fluctuation. 

Factors Influencing Weight Changes in Weed Users

In a 2018 study, researchers observed the relationship between body mass index (BMI) and obesity rates in marijuana users. Obesity can be treatment-resistant and can put people at risk for other chronic health issues. The introduction of medical marijuana laws in some areas has been linked to a reduction in obesity rates among the population. Additionally, recreational marijuana laws have been associated with lower BMI and reduced rates of obesity, suggesting that consuming cannabis under these laws may support weight loss efforts.

It has been found that treatment-resistant forms of obesity are often caused by increased signaling in the nervous system.

This occurs when there are increased levels of the endocannabinoid signals AEA and 2-AG, overstimulating CB1R, and leading to an increased caloric intake, reduced metabolic rates, and increased weight. This effect may sound familiar as THC stimulates CB1R, prompting the munchies effect for people who smoked marijuana.

Not only did the researchers find cannabis to have beneficial qualities for managing and treating obesity, but they also predicted cannabis may have additional benefits via the same biological mechanisms.

Predictions for how cannabis impacts weight changes: 

• Cannabis users lose additional weight during tolerance breaks

• Moderate use of cannabis reduces risks of disorders associated with weight gain or metabolic syndrome

• The effectiveness of cannabis’ metabolic benefits is dependent on the ratios of omega-6 and omega-4 fatty acids consumed

• Cannabis and omega-3 fatty acids have similar impacts on weight gain or loss

It is likely that cannabis would work more effectively at managing body composition when cannabis users are practicing other healthy life habits. This can include a routine and restful sleep schedule, a well-balanced diet, and regular exercise.

Body Composition Effects of Weed 

A study published by the American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse examined the relationship between cannabis and obesity in young adults. It was found that regular cannabis use showed a lower prevalence of excessive weight gain or obesity among young adults. 

We're still learning the intricacies of how cannabis impacts the nervous system and regulates both hormonal and other key physiological processes that dictate mood, metabolism, and immune system function.

For now, we see much promise with both preliminary studies and anecdotal evidence.

Tips for Managing Weight While Using Weed

Depending on your personal goals for using cannabis to manage weight, there are three possible ways you can utilize this amazing plant. 

Cannabis is particularly useful for stimulating the appetite of medical marijuana patients who are undergoing treatments such as chemotherapy. It can be used to maintain a healthy weight, while other medications suppress or hinder hunger. 

On the other hand, marijuana use can be utilized to maintain or make you lose weight as well. High amounts of cannabis appear to increase metabolism, minimize energy storage, and bring overall body mass index (BMI) down.

This likely will not result in a sudden or dramatic weight loss but will change small parts of your daily life that will offer safe and achievable long-term results. 

Utilize minor cannabinoids for additional health benefits

Additionally, there are some cannabinoids that are better equipped to stimulate weight loss. Compounds like THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) is a minor cannabinoid that has been shown to suppress appetite and encourage healthy weight loss while enhancing the experience of exercise.

Seek out cannabinoids meant to boost energy, creativity, sleep, or appetite, depending on your unique needs! There are many products now tailored to these effects. 

Some cannabis consumers recommend strains like Lemon Haze, Skywalker OG, Gorilla Glue, or any products high in limonene or humulene.

These compounds have been found to improve metabolism and occasionally suppress appetite. Though, a little bit of munchies won’t hurt!

Cannabis Consumers Tend to Have Lower body mass index

Even though more extensive research is necessary to truly understand weed’s impact on body weight, we are beginning to see compelling information about the long-term effects of cannabis on BMI. 

In the International Journal of Epidemiology, a study was published that explored the impact of cannabis on BMI over a three-year period.

Information was gathered from anecdotes, pre-clinical studies, and cross-sectional evidence to confirm there is a strong possibility that cannabis decreases BMI.

Despite the fact that cannabis users report a higher caloric intake, they still have a lower BMI compared to those who have not used cannabis. 

CBD-Infused Edibles May Have Specific Effects That Help You Lose Weight

You may be interested in an alternative to psychoactive cannabis products to pump up your workout routine and jumpstart your metabolism. CBD, the major non-psychotropic constituent of cannabis, may actually play a significant role in the regulation of food intake and energy balance.

In a 2011 study, researchers explored CBD's impact on weight gain in rats. The results suggested that CBD has the ability to alter body weight gain, due to its interactions with the CB2 receptor. CBD was able to regulate and decrease the amount of weight gain in rapidly growing rats.

This is likely due to CBD’s anorexigenic effect, however further research is necessary to clarify the potential mechanisms involved in the effects of CBD on hunger and metabolism. 

Re-charge your routines with cannabis

Include edibles as part of a healthy lifestyle!

In addition to jump-starting your metabolism, CBD edibles may also help promote a healthy lifestyle in a number of other ways!

• CBD might encourage the browning of fat cells, leading to less fat storage and better access to energy reserves. 

• CBD, when paired with CBG or CBC can reduce appetite

• In some cases, CBD on its own may increase appetite (though this is loosely understood)

There are now many infused products available that are low in sugar and other ingredients that may present dietary issues.

Teas, tinctures, and cooking oils are a great way to incorporate CBD into your daily routine. 

Find balance and wellness with weed 

Hormonal and metabolic regulation are just two of the many benefits of cannabis products. The synergy of these effects makes it such an incredible and holistic approach to wellness.

Smoking weed is not meant to replace a weight loss supplement but can offer calming and restorative effects that help you live a balanced and fulfilling life, no matter your size, body type, or age.

Tap into the bliss and restorative properties of cannabis, and show your body how much you care!

Frequently Asked Questions

Does weed have calories?

There will be about two calories in a gram of cannabis. 100 grams is equivalent to approximately 300 calories. Many people, however, do not consume raw weed, usually by smoking a product with water.

Do edibles affect your metabolism?

Edibles that contain infused foods can alter metabolism during highs. However, this relationship between edibles and high metabolism is complex and still unclear.

Are edibles high in calories?

The calorie content is high because the ingredients used in this edible contain sugars and fats. Marijuana food is a non-nutritive supplement for our body and can be very high in calories due to added sugar and fat.

What are the best edibles for weight loss?

CBD Gummy is the best product available in various flavors and can be used in varying amounts.