Marijuana and Weight Loss: What Is the Association?

Historically, marijuana use has been linked to the induction of snacking behaviors in people. Commonly referred to as the ‘munchies effect’, users have experienced a sudden rise in their appetite after smoking a strain or few. We all know consuming marijuana increases the appetite; how could it possibly result in weight loss? Let’s read about this and much more here.

Can Medical Marijuana Help in Weight Loss?

Yes, medical marijuana can indeed help in losing weight. There has been much back and forth about the possible weight loss benefits of medical marijuana for quite some time now. Due to the lack of proper research, it wasn’t possible to propagate this benefit earlier, but with new emerging proof, it is.

It was particularly after the publication of the research study titled, ‘Marijuana and Body Weight’ published in 2014 that substantiated the weight-loss claims. According to the results of this study, weight gain due to marijuana use was found to occur in patients suffering from serious disorders like HIV/AIDS and/or cancer only. For the people who were healthy and on the average to high body weight spectrum, marijuana use actually worked well to lower the Body Mass Index (BMI).

This became a pathbreaking study in terms of leading the cause of marijuana use for weight loss. Let’s uncover the symptoms of marijuana use that lead to weight loss in people.

How Does Marijuana Work for Weight Loss?

The therapeutic benefits of marijuana aren’t hidden from anyone. From a severely debilitating condition like Cancer to something as common as Anxiety, marijuana can treat it all. How does marijuana contribute to weight loss, let’s find out?

Treats Insomnia

Weight loss isn’t all about eating what is right and what is not. Of course, eating patterns and behaviors make a difference if you wish to lose weight but they are not the only factors that matter. Having a good sleep is one of the underrated and lesser-known things that make a huge impact on the weight lost or gained by an individual.

Sleep is the time for body recovery, and that includes burning a lot of calories. So if you’re not sleeping properly each night, then the chances of you gaining weight increase manifold. Also, due to the midnight snacking phenomenon, the boost in appetite effect of poor sleep is also well known.

By smoking the right CBD-rich strains, the relaxing and calming effects of CBD hit you fast, helping you sleep peacefully throughout the night.

Helps Reduce Obesity

It was a study conducted on mice in the year 2015, that hinted at the amazing obesity cutting effect of THC. It was found out that via ingestion of THC, the mice that were heavier experienced a huge reduction in their body weight. The method of administration was the point of emphasis here. Ingesting THC showed better results in weight reduction whereas smoking-induced the munchies effect.

Despite the short-term induction of the munchies effect, it is a noteworthy fact that in the long term, marijuana use was found to be linked to lower body weight. This then means that THC-rich strains can be successfully consumed to lose weight effectively. Of course, proper precaution and not going overboard is something that the user must keep in mind as well.

Helps in Exercising Properly

CBD or Cannabidiol, as we all know, is one compound that aids in the recovery of intense joint and muscle pain, which is why athletes and sportsmen frequently make use of it. In addition to that, CBD can also treat inflammation. Now, these two benefits can then be put to good use when working out. The person can consume it before or after completing their exercises.

What also adds to the experience is the focus sharpening benefit that often goes hand in hand with CBD consumption. In the case of weight loss too, if the person has good focus, he or she can achieve the post-workout bodyweight that they have envisioned. So for reasons of pain relief, anti-inflammatory effects, and strong focus, CBD-rich strains work impressively.

Cannabis Strains That Cause Weight Loss

There are many cannabis strains that can be smoked for achieving weight loss benefits. Let us tick off the main ones below.

Northern Lights

A strain that is useful for medical and recreational users alike, Northern Lights has a 16% THC content. This means that smoking this strain will give a moderately high to the users but will also work effectively to reduce their weight. So what can be better than this? You can smoke this strain to dispel insomnia and depression.

Durban Poison

Another major strain that has garnered much popularity due to its important benefits is Durban Poison. Now this strain is quite special. And its specialty is owed to the presence of THCV or Tetrahydrocannabivarin. THCV is a cannabinoid that is revered due to its weight loss benefits. The effects of this strain is quite like a shot of espresso, refreshing and fast.

Blue Dream

A Sativa dominant strain, Blue Dream is another great choice for people to use for motivation and intense energy. This will provide a range of medicinal benefits that will keep the users motivated and inspired.

Harlequin

A highly potent CBD strain that cuts off the increase in appetite effects of consuming THC is Harlequin. This is a go-to strain for people who are trying to lose weight. With a CBD content level of around 15%, people are less likely to feel the need to munch on snacks excessively.

Both the aroma and the flavor blends of this strain will excite the users and make them happy. Without any bitter aftertaste, it is one of the better tasting strains to smoke.

Charlotte’s Web

Charlotte’s Web is a true rarity in the world of cannabis strains. With THC content under 1%, only the calming beneficial effects will be felt by whoever smokes it. Since the CBD content is high here, it is easy to not feel the appetite stimulation effects of THC.

Final Thoughts

Using cannabis for weight loss is then a huge possibility. To explore it, you must research it properly and also apply for an online medical card. Applying for an MMJ card will ensure that what you’re doing is being done under the medical guidance and directions of legit doctors.