It is no secret that marijuana use has been on the rise since decriminalization in many states. But does THC use cause weight gain? This article will explore the potential effects of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, on body weight. We’ll look at the research behind the claims, potential side effects, and other factors related to weight gain. Ultimately, the answer to this question may depend on the individual user and their health status.
Does THC cause increases in appetite?
Yes, THC can cause an increase in appetite, known as “the munchies”. This can lead to weight gain if you are consuming more calories than you are burning. Additionally, THC can interfere with the body’s ability to regulate metabolism, which can lead to weight gain.
Is there a link between THC and changes in metabolism?
Yes, there is a link between THC and changes in metabolism. Studies have shown that regular THC use may lead to an increase in food intake, increases in body weight, and an increase in fat deposits, especially in the abdominal area. As a result, THC use may contribute to a higher risk of developing obesity and other metabolic conditions.
Does THC consumption lead to an increase in fat storage?
No, THC consumption does not lead to an increase in fat storage. In fact, many studies have found that THC consumption can actually lead to a decrease in fat storage, as well as an increase in metabolic rate. Furthermore, THC consumption has been found to improve insulin sensitivity, which can lead to improved weight control and a decrease in fat storage.
Does CBD counteract the potential weight gain associated with THC?
No, THC does not directly cause weight gain. However, some people report feeling more hungry and experiencing an increased appetite when they use THC. CBD may help counteract these effects, as it is known to have an appetite-suppressing effect. Additionally, CBD has been shown to improve metabolism, which could help reduce potential weight gain associated with THC use.
Are there any long-term effects of THC on weight gain?
Yes, long-term use of THC can lead to an increase in appetite, which can lead to weight gain. Additionally, THC can increase levels of the hormone ghrelin, which is associated with increased appetite, and can lead to weight gain. Finally, THC can increase cravings for unhealthy foods which can contribute to weight gain.
While cannabis alters the functions of neurobiological circuits controlling appetite, its effect on weight gain is complex since several factors appear to be involved, says Didier Jutras-Aswad, University of Montreal professor and researcher at the CHUM Research Centre. As to whether it actually causes weight gain in the long term, the available data is limited. The question is all the more difficult to answer since many other factors can influence weight. For instance, cannabis use may be associated with cigarette smoking, which also alters appetite, and many effects of cannabis vary by gender and level of use. For this study, we wanted to better understand the association between cannabis and weight gain by paying particular attention to these factors. The main finding of our study shows that long-term cannabis use indeed influences weight gain. But above all, we noted that certain factors drastically modify this effect, including gender, level of use, and concomitant cigarette smoking. We were able to group participants according to various levels of use to conduct our analyses. Specifically, in male non-cigarette smokers, greater cannabis use led to greater weight gain. And significantly, in male cigarette smokers, the effect was almost the opposite. The highly detailed nature of the NDIT study allowed the researchers to rule out other factors likely to influence weight gain in their analysis. For the moment, the researchers are unable to explain the difference between males and females, although they have some hypotheses. There are also possible psychological differences in men and women in their perception of and preoccupation with weight gain and diet, which could hypothetically explain why men seem specifically sensitive to the complex interaction between cannabis use, cigarette smoking, and weight gain. Finally, the study equips scientists and health practitioners in improving knowledge and combating cigarette smoking, cannabis abuse, and obesity. Our data indicate that concomitant cigarette smoking and gender must also be taken into account in the individuals concerned, said Jutras-Aswad. When one substance is used, another one is often consumed. We must therefore be able to prevent, detect, and intervene in the problematic use of several substances simultaneously, concluded Dr. Note Content may be edited for style and length. Science News. Cigarette smoking may modify the association between cannabis use and adiposity in males. Its complicated. ScienceDaily, 30 June What effect does marijuana really have on weight gain? Retrieved June 15, from www. Print Email Share. Promising Rectal Cancer Study. Walking Towards Healthier Knees. Turn Up the Beat! Component for Brain-Inspired Computing. Exposing Liars by Distraction. Explore More. Neuroscientists have been researching the effects of cannabis on the adolescent brain. Adolescence is associated with the maturation of cognitive New trials showed these women can safely limit their weight gain with diet and exercise interventions. The reduced weight gain, Researchers say maintaining weight and avoiding weight gain may be an Living Well. View all the latest top news in the environmental sciences, or browse the topics below. Keyword Search.
And by that logic, regular marijuana use should make you fat, right? And while academic studies of the drug are still only beginning, we do know that the relationship between marijuana and bodyweight is more complicated than pizza rolls. Despite the stereotype that stoners are lazy and constantly eating, their bodies tell a different story. Several recent studies have found that daily marijuana use is associated with a lower BMI , smaller waist circumference , and lower fasting insulin levels. Some marijuana growers are marketing strains specifically for weight loss. Does that mean cannabis is the secret to losing your love handles? Many lifestyle factors could explain this correlation. If that were true, it would support the notion that weed helps people lose weight. So far, broad sociological studies on weed use merely indicate correlation, rather than causation. Marijuana has hundreds of cannabinoids, but the two superstarsTHC and CBDare responsible for the high that recreational users love and the potential medical benefits that those with prescriptions need. The two compounds produce effects that are seemingly at odds with one another. And their effects on our appetites differ as well. Unfortunately, weed is not the answer when it comes to weight lossnot yet, at least. Even more troubling, cannabis can have the opposite desired effect in some cases. This is especially dangerous for individuals who are obese or diabetic and are at a higher risk for cardiovascular disease and heart attack. And with laws around marijuana loosening, researchers have new opportunities to explore its medical applications.