How Do Cannabinoids Affect Appetite Suppression?
Why does weed make you hungry? Anyone who has ever smoked a joint or eaten THC gummies has probably asked this question. But, conversely, how do cannabinoids affect appetite suppression? This is because the cannabinoid system plays a crucial role in appetite regulation. Cannabinoid compounds like THC can impact an individual’s hunger levels, leading to increased appetite. This is why many people believe that cannabis use leads to increased hunger, sometimes referred to as “the munchies”. However, not all cannabinoid compounds lead to increased appetite. For example, scientific studies show that THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) has stimulating effects. This means THCV increases energy and controls hunger.
What are cannabinoids?
There is a fair amount of confusion around the effects of cannabinoids. On the one hand, we hear of cannabis causing sudden increased appetite. One the other hand, we see articles about THC weight loss and many people replying affirmatively to the Reddit question “Does smoking weed speed up your metabolism?” So, how do cannabinoids affect appetite suppression or stimulation?! To get to the bottom of this, we need to understand the cannabinoid system.
The human endocannabinoid system (ECS) is composed of cannabinoid receptors located throughout the body that respond to cannabinoid compounds found in hemp, cannabis, and other plants. When you ingest or inhale these compounds they can interact with your ECS in a variety of ways, which can cause a decrease or increase in appetite as well as affect hormones, sleep, energy, discomfort management, and stress levels and more.
How many cannabinoids are there?
Most people have hear of THC and CBD, but just how many cannabinoids are there? Amazingly, there are at least 113 known naturally occurring cannabinoids and probably even more. Each cannabinoid has a unique effect on one’s cannabinoid system. In fact, the effects of cannabinoids vary greatly. For example, while THCV boosts energy levels CBN (cannabinol) promotes relaxation and sleep. CBDV oil (cannabidivarin) promotes sociability and CBC (cannabichromene) improves mood by raising levels of the brain’s “bliss” molecule anandamide.
So, why does weed make you hungry?
As we look into the causes of increased appetite after smoking pot or eating edibles, we see that THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary active cannabinoid in cannabis. THC has many therapeutic effects including relieving discomfort, soreness, as well as reducing temporary nausea. However, it can also cause a sudden increase in appetite – those dreaded munchies! This study detailed on PBS explains that while our brain’s normally produce their own cannabinoids, lipids that control our appetites, THC mimics those chemicals and gives its own signal. Even if you’ve just eaten and are full, suddenly THC makes neurons tell your hypothalmus that you’re hungry. THC also affects olfactory receptors making food smell and taste more intense.
How do cannabinoids affect appetite suppression?
Now we know how THC causes increased appetite, how does THCV reduce hunger? Instead of activating the CB1 receptor, THCV does the opposite. THCV turns off the CB1 receptor, thereby suppressing appetite. In fact, the National Library of Medicine writes that: “In rodent studies, THCV decreases appetite, increases satiety, and up-regulates energy metabolism.”
What are cannabinoids for weight loss?
THCV shows a lot of promise for curbing hunger, which can aid weight loss when combined with a healthy diet and exercise. However, most studies and research have been carried out on rodents or use anecdotal evidence or positive reviews. If you’d like to see if THCV can help you, you can try a THCV oil tincture or a 1:1 THCV CBD blend oil. Due to the stimulating effects of THCV, it is recommended that it be taken in the morning, before work or exercise, rather than when trying to relax or fall asleep. If you smoke pot or consume edible cannabinoids with THC, THCV can help to combat the increase in appetite from THC. However, THCV weight loss will not be as effective when combined with THC. Extra strength THCV gummies can also be combined with THC gummies or other edible cannabinoids as you like.
Related Blog: THCV vs. THC: What’s The Difference?
Conclusion
Cannabis and hemp cannabinoids affect appetite suppression and stimulation. Each compound has a unique effect and everyone’s cannabinoid system reacts differently. It’s important to remember that not all cannabinoid compounds lead to increased appetite or weight gain. While THC is known for its stimulating effects on appetite, some cannabinoid compounds are being studied for their ability to promote weight loss – namely THCV. Ultimately, it’s important to be aware of how your body responds to cannabinoid compounds so that you can make an informed decision about what works best for you. When it comes to cannabinoid-induced appetite suppression, sometimes the best approach is finding the right balance through mindful consumption. With the right products and dosage amounts tailored to your needs, you can enjoy the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids while keeping your appetite in control! Your cannabinoid system will thank you!