Cannabis Against Obesity?
We all know that cannabis can stimulate appetite, but did you know it can also be an ally in hunger suppression?
Published on 09/10/2021
By João R. Negromonte
It has long been known that cannabis is associated with weight gain, a relationship that has characterized users of the herb as "munchies" due to the well-known "munchies" (the sensation of loss of satiety caused by THC).
However, some recent studies reveal that a substance present in cannabis, Tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), may actually help you lose weight. While THC increases appetite, THCV suppresses it.
As the name suggests, THCV is similar to THC in molecular structure and psychoactive properties, but provides a completely different range of effects.
This cannabinoid is an antagonist of the CB1 and CB2 receptors. This means that, depending on the dosage, it blocks THC, protecting you from increased appetite and also from the psychoactive effect.
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What are the benefits of THCV?
- THCV is an appetite suppressant: Unlike THC, THCV decreases appetite. This is good for consumers focused on weight loss, but should be avoided by patients treating appetite loss, anorexia, HIV, and cancer.
- May help in diabetes treatment: Recent research shows THCV's ability to regulate blood sugar and reduce insulin resistance.
- May reduce panic attack episodes: Reduces anxiety attacks without suppressing emotion.
- Helps patients with Alzheimer's: Tremors, motor control, and brain injuries associated with the disease can be treated with THCV.
- Stimulates bone strengthening: Because it promotes the growth of bone cells. THCV has been sought for the treatment of osteoporosis and other bone-related issues.
How to know if I am overweight?
A person is considered obese if their BMI (body mass index, calculated by height and weight) is above 30 Kg/m2, and normal if their BMI is below 25 Kg/m2. In the table below, you can check the weight limit for your height.
Some causes of obesity
In general, the balance between caloric intake and energy expenditure determines a person's weight. If a person consumes more calories than they burn, they will gain weight – it's that simple. Therefore, the most common cause of obesity is lack of physical activity and excesses, not limited to that.
Other factors that can cause obesity include:
- Genetics
- Sleep quality
- Medication
- Psychological disorders
All the reasons listed above can be treated with the use of THCV, which is why research on cannabis is increasingly focused on the well-being and quality of life of people.
However, if you are already using any controlled medication, consult your doctor about primary care, as it has been clinically established that weight gain is often associated with medication use, so it is important to follow a specialist's recommendations before taking any hasty actions.
Finding THCV
In some places where cannabis is legalized, there are edible, sublingual, or vaporizable products designed to contain higher levels of THCV. If they are not available in your area, you may look for raw cannabis strains with naturally high concentrations of THCV.
In general, THCV is more common in sativa strains originating from Africa, such as Durban Poison. New strains have also been created to maximize THCV, such as Doug’s Varin and Pineapple Purps.
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Not sure if a strain contains THCV? Checking laboratory test results of products is a good way to verify the presence of the substance.
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