We all know that stoners have a reputation for being junk food obsessed monsters that will go through impressive lengths to make sure their munchie cravings are met once the high starts to kick in — and while this may be true for many of us, not everyone has snacks on the brain after a smoke sesh. In fact, you might be surprised to hear that more and more people are turning to medical marijuana for weight loss.
This may seem counterintuitive at first glance, but there is now both scientific and anecdotal evidence that may back up this stereotype-breaking claim. Interested? Let’s take a closer look at everything you need to know about the connection between cannabis and weight loss.
What Science Says
The chatter around weed and weight loss started way back in 2011 when results from two national surveys found “that despite the evidence that cannabis [consumption] stimulates appetite in clinical trials and laboratory studies, users are actually less likely to be obese than non-users.” That eyebrow raising statement then seemed to be confirmed in a longer, three-year study published in 2019, which again found that cannabis users are less inclined to be overweight than those that do not imbibe.
Which then begged the question, why is that the case? A 2018 study suggests that you may actually be storing less fat and burning more calories in the long run when you regularly use marijuana. While you might be driven to indulge your munchies on occasion and eat more, your metabolism may also receive a slight boost. We even published a cannabis butter recipe in case you’re interested.
More Than Just Your Metabolism
Although a potential upgrade to your metabolism definitely doesn’t hurt on a weight loss journey, there may be other reasons why stoners are often less likely to be obese than their sober counterparts.
Generally speaking, the cannabis plant reduces stress levels, aids in better, more restful sleep, and relieves minor aches and pains all over the body. These are all factors that have been said to help with a weight loss plan. You not only feel better from the inside out, but you may also have the extra energy and focus to start and stick to a healthy lifestyle change.
In fact, many famous athletes like Mike Tyson and Megan Rappinoe have come out in support of cannabis use in their training. From muscle recovery to a more relaxed state of mind, many professional athletes and everyday gym rats say that cannabis helps them stay on track with their goals.
In addition, THCV (a common cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant) is beginning to gain some notoriety as a potential appetite suppressant. Similar to its more famous cousin THC in psychoactive effects, this tiny compound has been said to dull the appetite and manage high-induced cravings. While scientific research into THCV is in its infancy, the initial findings are indeed promising in the case for cannabis.
Which Strains Are Best?
While there is no cannabis strain (that we know of) that is guaranteed to help you lose weight, there are some strains that have higher levels of THCV and are known to promote an active lifestyle. Be sure to ask any of our JARS budtenders for these strains or for their own personal recommendations.
- Girl Scout Cookies: This indica-leaning strain is not typically known for an energetic high, but it does offer full body relaxation and calm peace of mind, which may help you recover from a rigorous sweat sesh or relax into a night of sleep.
- Green Crack: Yeah we know the name is a little out-there, but this strain does oddly live up to its nomenclature — it offers laser-sharp focus and a stimulating mental buzz that will keep you going all day long. If you’re going for an early morning crossfit class or a late-night yoga flow, shake the yawns off with this ultra-energizing strain.
- Durban Poison: A classic African sativa, Durban Poison consistently delivers sparkly buds with a high dose of the crave-curbing THCV. This strain is perfect for exploring the great outdoors or anytime you need a little creative pep in your step.
The Bottom Line
Although we wish it were true, cannabis is not a miraculous one-stop shop to weight loss success. Ultimately, there is no hidden secret to achieving your goals. It takes good old-fashioned healthy eating, regular exercise, and an active lifestyle — but medical marijuana may be able to help encourage you in the right direction with a good night’s rest or a pain-relieving body high. And in case you were wondering, you can still donate blood even if you consume cannabis.
Come into JARS today and ask our budtenders about strains that may be right for you and your weight loss journey.
