- Fact-checked by Dr. Desiree Granados
It’s no secret that marijuana is becoming increasingly legal across the United States. What may be less known, however, is the effect that marijuana has on weight loss. Some people swear by it as a weight-loss aid, while others claim that marijuana makes them gain weight. So what’s the truth? Does weed make you lose weight? Let’s take a look.
Weed and Weight Loss
Does marijuana really help people lose weight? Some people believe that weed helps to suppress the appetite, which can lead to weight loss. However, there is little scientific evidence to support this claim. In fact, research actually suggests that marijuana may cause weight gain in some people.
Some people may lose weight after using marijuana, while others may experience weight gain. More research is needed to determine whether or not marijuana has any impact on weight loss.
How Weed Affects the Body
Weed can have a few different effects on the body depending on how it’s consumed. When smoked, weed goes into the lungs and then into the bloodstream. From there, it travels to the brain and other organs. THC, the active ingredient in weed, attaches to receptors in the brain that affect pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, sensory and time perception, and movement.
Weed can also be eaten in food or drink. When eaten, the THC is absorbed through the stomach and intestines into the bloodstream. It takes longer for the effects to emerge than it does when you smoke weed, but they last longer. Eating products containing weed can make you feel tired or hungry.
Benefits of Weed
Marijuana has many benefits, both physical and mental. Physically, marijuana can help with pain and nausea and stimulate the appetite. Mentally, marijuana can help with anxiety and depression and improve focus. For people who are trying to lose weight, marijuana can be a helpful tool depending on one’s physiology and how the weed is used.
However, weed is not necessarily guaranteed to help you lose weight. It’s known for causing the “munchies,” or spontaneous hunger that can lead to excessive snacking. If you only snack on healthy foods then you could use the munchies to your advantage, but if you give in to temptation and snack on junk food it could lead to weight gain.
How to Use Weed for Weight Loss
Weed has been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits. If you’re looking to lose weight, using weed may be able to help you reach that goal. Here are a few tips on how to use weed for weight loss:
- Choose the right strain — Not all strains of weed are created equal when it comes to weight loss. Some strains are known to be more appetite-suppressing than others. Opt for a strain that is known to help with weight loss.
- Smoke or Vape — When you smoke or vape weed, the active ingredients in the plant are absorbed into your bloodstream quickly. This means that the effects will be felt immediately, which can help suppress your appetite.
- Use it in Conjunction with a Healthy Diet and Exercise Routine — Weed can help you lose weight, but it’s not a miracle drug. To see the best results, be sure to eat healthy and exercise regularly.
- Don’t Overdo It — Although weed can help suppress your appetite, too much of it can have the opposite effect. Don’t use too much weed or you may end up eating more than you intended.
- Start Small — If you’re new to using weed for weight loss, start small. Consume a low dose and see how it affects you. You can always increase the dose if necessary.
Conclusion
So, does weed make you lose weight? The answer is complicated. Some people may lose weight after using marijuana, while others may experience weight gain. More research is needed to determine whether or not marijuana has any impact on weight loss. However, if you’re looking to lose weight, using weed may help you reach that goal.
How we reviewed this article:
- How Weed Can Help You Lose Weight, According to Science https://www.mensjournal.com/health-fitness/how-weed-can-help-you-lose-weight-according-to-science
- This Is What Weed Does for Weight Loss https://www.menshealth.com/weight-loss/a19538689/marijuana-for-weight-loss-does-it-actually-work/
Current Version
March 2, 2022
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
Jake Peter received his journalism degree from Emerson College and has been writing content for the Sanctuary Wellness Institute since 2021. He is passionate about all things cannabis.
