If you’ve ever wondered whether cannabis can help with weight loss, you’re not alone — it’s one of the most googled questions about weed. The answer is more nuanced than you might think. At Local’d, Washington DC’s trusted medical cannabis delivery service, we believe in giving our patients honest, research-backed information. So let’s dig into what the science actually says.
Is There a Link Between Cannabis And Weight Loss?
Much of the talk around smoking weed for weight loss comes from a 2011 review of two surveys. According to the authors, obesity rates were higher in people who did not use cannabis than those who used it at least three days per week.
Shortly before those results were published, a study examining the association between cannabis and obesity in young people made similar conclusions.
Recent research on the relationship between cannabis and body mass index (BMI), revealed that cannabis users had lower obesity and BMIs, but higher calorie intake.
This research only suggests that cannabis use can be linked to a lower body weight. This link is not clear and there’s no evidence that cannabis use can help you lose weight.
Why Are These Study Results So Important?
Experts offer a few theories as to why cannabis use can lead to a lower BMI and lower risk of obesity.
It Can Improve Mobility
Cannabis can be used correctly to relieve stiffness and pain. People with mobility problems may be able to use cannabis more effectively.
Some People May Drink Less
Experts believe that cannabis users may be younger than those who do not use it. This could mean that they aren’t taking in calories from alcoholic beverages, which could lead to lower BMIs.
It Can Reduce Stress
Stress eating is very common. Studies show that people are more likely to overeat and rely on comfort foods when stressed. It’s no secret that weed can ease anxiety and help calm you when you’re feeling stressed. Some believe that this might replace stress eating for some people.
It Could Improve Your Sleep
Insufficient sleep can lead to weight gain. Some evidence suggests that cannabis may help with insomnia. It may also help to reduce stress and pain, which are two main causes of poor sleep.
It Can Increase Metabolism
There’s some evidence that cannabis interacts with cannabinoid receptor 1, which plays a role in metabolism and food intake. A high intake of cannabis appears to improve metabolism and decrease energy storage. This results in a lower body mass index.
Using cannabis doesn’t cause sudden weight loss. Experts believe that cannabis can help with certain underlying factors that may contribute to weight gain in some individuals. To fully understand the relationship between cannabis and weight, more research is required.
What Do You Think About The Whole “munchies” Thing?
Some people are surprised by the research on cannabis and weight loss. This is due to the long-standing association between marijuana and snacking.
Indeed, a recent study showed an increase in sales of “junk” food, which the authors largely defined as chips, cookies, and ice cream, in U.S. states where cannabis is now legal.
But, correlation does not necessarily mean causation. It doesn’t necessarily mean that cannabis caused an increase in these sales.
What is the secret to people smoking marijuana and eating more? Researchers are still trying out the details, but it is possible that a balance between two of the major cannabinoids found in marijuana might provide some insight.
THC, the psychoactive compound that produces weed’s “high,” has been shown to trigger hunger. This is why cannabis can sometimes be used as an appetite stimulant.
CBD on the other side seems to counteract some effects of THC including its appetite-boosting effects and mood-altering effects.
What’s The Catch?
The research may seem to suggest that smoking cannabis is a great way to lose weight. There is no evidence that smoking cannabis causes weight loss.
It may indirectly contribute by helping with some issues such as chronic pain or poor sleep that could lead to a higher body weight.
The Bottom Line
While research suggests cannabis may indirectly support a healthy weight by improving sleep, reducing stress, and boosting metabolism, it’s not a magic weight loss solution. As always, consult your doctor before using cannabis for any specific health goal.
Curious about which cannabis products might be right for you? Browse the Local’d menu for a curated selection of lab-tested flower, edibles, tinctures and more — all available for fast weed delivery across Washington, DC. Have questions? Check out our FAQ page or visit our delivery areas page to confirm we serve your neighborhood.
Where to Get Quality Medical Cannabis in DC
If you’re a medical cannabis patient in Washington DC looking to explore what cannabis can do for your wellness routine, Local’d makes it easy to get started. We deliver a curated selection of lab-tested flower, edibles, concentrates, vapes, pre-rolls, and tinctures directly to your door across DC — typically within the hour. Whether you’re looking for a high-CBD product to help with stress and sleep or want to explore what works best for your body, our menu has something for every patient. Place your order online today and experience the fastest weed delivery in Washington, DC
