Does Weed Help With Stomach Issues?
- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
Some people believe that weed can help with stomach issues. There are many reasons why this might be the case. For example, some research has shown that cannabinoids may have an anti-inflammatory effect on the gut and relieve symptoms in those who suffer from inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).
However, it’s important to keep in mind that most of the research on cannabinoids and stomach issues is either animal-based or anecdotal. So, can weed help with stomach issues?
What is Stomach Acid and What Does it Do?
Stomach acid is a digestive juice made up of hydrochloric acid (HCl) and potassium chloride (KCl). It’s produced by the parietal cells in the stomach lining.
Stomach acid has a number of important functions, including:
- Breaking down proteins in food
- Killing bacteria that can cause infection
- Triggering the release of enzymes that further break down food
- Helping to absorb certain nutrients, such as vitamin B12
While stomach acid is important for these functions, too much acid can lead to problems.
Excess stomach acid can lead to gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), a condition in which acidic stomach contents back up into the esophagus. This can cause heartburn, chest pain, and damage to the esophageal lining.
GERD is a common problem, affecting about 20% of the US population.
Certain medications, such as antacids and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs), can help relieve the symptoms of GERD. However, these medications don’t address the underlying cause of the condition.
In some cases, natural remedies may be effective in reducing stomach acid.
Natural Ways to Improve Stomach Acid Levels
Here are 5 evidence-based ways to improve stomach acid levels naturally:
Eat Fermented Foods
Fermented foods are a rich source of probiotics, which are live bacteria that offer a number of health benefits. Probiotics help maintain the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut, and they may also help reduce inflammation.
Fermented foods that are high in probiotics include:
- Yogurt
- Sauerkraut
- Kimchi
- Kombucha
- Tempeh
- Miso soup
Drink Green Tea
Green tea is made from camellia sinensis leaves that have been dried and rolled. It’s rich in antioxidants, which can protect against cell damage.
Green tea also contains polyphenols, which are plant-based compounds that may boost gut health.
A small study in 2022 found that drinking green tea led to increases in beneficial bacteria in the gut.
Take a Probiotic Supplement
Probiotic supplements contain live bacteria that can help to restore the balance of good and bad bacteria in the gut. A large review of 29 studies found that taking probiotics can help to reduce symptoms of stomach acid, such as heartburn and bloating.
Probiotic supplements are generally safe, but it’s important to choose a high-quality product. Be sure to look for a product that has been manufactured in an FDA-registered facility and that contains live, active cultures.
Eat Less Sugar
Sugar can feed bad bacteria in the gut and lead to inflammation. A diet high in sugar has been linked to an increased risk of gastritis, a condition characterized by stomach inflammation.
Limiting your sugar intake may help reduce stomach acid and promote gut health.
Try Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a popular natural remedy for a number of conditions, including indigestion. A small study found that consuming apple cider vinegar before a meal helped to reduce symptoms of stomach acid, such as heartburn and bloating.
Apple cider vinegar is thought to have this effect because it contains acetic acid, which can help to inhibit the growth of bad bacteria in the gut.
To use apple cider vinegar for indigestion, mix 1 tablespoon with 8 ounces of water and drink the mixture before a meal. You can also add a few tablespoons to a cup of warm water and drink it as a tea. Be sure to start with a small amount of vinegar, as too much can cause irritation of the throat and esophagus.
Can Weed Help Treat Stomach Issues?
Weed has been shown to help with a variety of stomach issues, such as Crohn’s disease and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It can help to calm an upset stomach, and it can also help to alleviate pain. Additionally, weed can help to increase appetite, which is beneficial for people who are struggling with stomach issues because they are not able to eat.
Conclusion
While more research is needed to understand the full extent of how weed affects the digestive system, it is clear that it can be a helpful tool for people who are struggling with stomach issues.
How we reviewed this article:
- How common is GERD?
https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/digestive-diseases/ulcerative-colitis - Can Cannabis Help Your Gut?
https://time.com/6101096/marijuana-gut-health/
Current Version
April 25, 2022
Written By
Kirstie Gundlach
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
Kirstie is a Certified Cannabis Coach with over 10 years in the medical cannabis field. She has worked at The Sanctuary Wellness institute since 2021 and has helped countless patients with questions pertaining to medical cannabis.
