Does Smoking Weed Really Make You Lose Weight?

Even if you don’t smoke marijuana, you may have heard of the munchies. This is the overpowering urge to eat every bit of everything after smoking. Others swear that smoking marijuana makes them eat less and helps them lose weight. Although it may seem like cannabis use is associated with a lower body weight, it's not that simple.

Let's take a look at the relationship between smoking marijuana and weight loss.

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

Although there is some evidence that smoking marijuana may have an effect on weight, more research is needed. If you are interested in learning more or would like to order some cannabis to your front door contact us today!