- 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.
Marijuana and Weight Loss
There are several ways in which marijuana may potentially affect weight loss. One of the main components of marijuana, THC, has been found to stimulate certain receptors in the brain that regulate appetite and metabolism. This can lead to an increase in hunger and food intake, which could potentially lead to weight gain.
However, some studies have also shown that THC can increase metabolism and aid in fat burning, promoting weight loss. Additionally, marijuana has been known to cause feelings of relaxation and reduced stress levels, which can be helpful for those who struggle with emotional eating.
How Weed Affects Your Metabolism
As mentioned earlier, THC can stimulate certain receptors in the brain that regulate metabolism. This can lead to an increase in metabolism and calorie burning. However, this effect may only be temporary and studies have shown mixed results on the long-term effects of marijuana on metabolism.
There is also evidence that frequent marijuana use can decrease insulin sensitivity, which could potentially lead to weight gain and other health issues. It’s important to note that these effects may vary from person to person and more research is needed to fully understand how weed affects metabolism.
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 Alongside 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.
If you are interested in acquiring a medical marijuana card, The Sanctuary Wellness Institute can help! We can connect you with a certified medical cannabis doctor who will guide you through the process of applying for a medical marijuana card.
The Sanctuary Wellness Institute can also help you explore safe medical weight loss options such as semaglutide injections. Join our online medical weight loss program and receive semaglutide injections for self-administration, along with virtual consultations with licensed physicians to monitor your progress and provide guidance. Schedule an evaluation today to see if you qualify.
Frequently Asked Questions
How we reviewed this article:
- Adrienne Santos-Longhurst (2023). Does Smoking Weed Really Make You Lose Weight?
https://www.healthline.com/health/does-smoking-weed-make-you-skinny - Sirichai Chayasirisobhon (2021). Mechanisms of Action and Pharmacokinetics of Cannabis
https://www.thepermanentejournal.org/doi/full/10.7812/TPP/19.200 - Eulla Keimili Fernandes Ferreira Cavalheiro, Ana Beatriz Costa, Daniéle Hendler Salla, Mariella Reinol da Silva, Talita Farias Mendes, Larissa Espindola da Silva, Cristini da Rosa Turatti, Rafael Mariano de Bitencourt, and Gislaine Tezza Rezin (2022). Cannabis sativa as a Treatment for Obesity: From Anti-Inflammatory Indirect Support to a Promising Metabolic Re-Establishment Target
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9070748/ - Anthony G. Pinzone, Emily K. Erb, Stacie M. Humm, Sarah G. Kearney, and J. Derek Kingsley (2023). Cannabis use for exercise recovery in trained individuals: a survey study
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC10403841/
Current Version
July 4, 2024
Written By
Jake Peter
Fact-checked By
Dr. Desiree Granados
Editorial Process
Our Editorial Process
First Published
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.
