{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/hormones/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_2600-markdown","title":"The Science Behind How Cannabis Can Boost Your Appetite","slug":"the-science-behind-how-cannabis-can-boost-your-appetite","content":"Getting “the munchies” is a famous side effect of marijuana—and for many consumers, that just means grabbing an extra bag of potato chips or making a pizza run. But the boost in appetite that comes from consuming cannabis is the product of a complex interplay of cannabinoids, neurotransmitters and hormones in the brain. Now, [recent discoveries about those relationships reveal how cannabis can stimulate the appetite](https://www.smithsonianmag.com/science-nature/scientific-explanation-how-marijuana-causes-munchies-180949660/)—and that has profound benefits for people with health conditions like cancer, HIV/AIDS and dementia for which low appetite and nausea are part of the illness. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Our Hunger Hormones: Ghrelin & Leptin \r\n\r\nThe brain’s central hunger switch is the hypothalamus, a small area in the forebrain that’s responsible for managing the activity of the autonomic nervous system, the pituitary gland and a variety of other homeostatic functions such as body temperature, thirst and appetite.  \r\n\r\nThe hypothalamus is ultimately responsible for regulating feelings of hunger and satiation. But in order to do that, it responds to signaling from ghrelin and leptin, two hormones that are produced elsewhere in the body.\r\n\r\n[Ghrelin is a hormone secreted primarily from cells in the stomach](http://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/ghrelin/), but also in smaller amounts from the pancreas, intestines and brain. Ghrelin levels in the blood are determined by food intake.\r\n\r\nLevels of ghrelin secreted by the stomach typically rise just before eating or during fasting. This accounts largely for the hunger pangs that tell us it’s time to eat something. Eating lowers the levels of ghrelin in the bloodstream—and certain foods, such as those containing carbohydrates and proteins, are more effective at lowering those levels than fats are. Ghrelin also plays a role in regulating insulin, an important factor in managing diabetes.   \r\n\r\nGhrelin in the bloodstream circulates to the hypothalamus, which responds with signals to stop eating—or to eat more. This essential hormone also acts on the amygdala, an area of the brain related to the pleasure-reward-learning circuit, which helps to explain some eating disorders and the love of comfort foods during times of stress.\r\n\r\nBalancing the activity of ghrelin is leptin—a hormone secreted by the fat cells throughout the body that’s responsible for [balancing fuel and energy expenditure](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4204468/). Leptin signals the hypothalamus to [alter food intake](http://www.yourhormones.info/hormones/leptin/) by encouraging the release of neurotransmitters that reduce appetite and suppressing those that stimulate it.\r\n\r\nBecause leptin is released from fat cells, the amount of leptin in the body depends on the amount of body fat a person has—more fat means higher levels of leptin. As a person loses weight, levels of leptin fall, triggering the hypothalamus to send signals that stimulate the appetite so that the body doesn’t starve.  \r\n\r\nMany things can affect the cycle of ghrelin/leptin release and hypothalamic signaling. But new research reveals that the most potent influences on this appetite regulating cycle may come from cannabinoids, both the natural versions produced by the body’s own endocannabinoid system (ECS) and the compounds in cannabis, specifically its psychoactive ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).\r\n\r\nRELATED: [LOSS OF APPETITE FROM CANCER](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55b14a863330370006050000/loss-of-appetite-from-cancer)\r\n\r\n### Cannabinoids Affect Appetite & Olfactory Regulators\r\n\r\nThe ECS is one of the largest signaling systems in the body. Receptors for the naturally produced cannabinoids anandamide and 2-arachidonoyl glycerol (2-AG) are found in many organs and tissues, and they’re especially plentiful in many areas of the brain, including the hypothalamus.  \r\n\r\nCannabinoids such as cannabidiol (CBD) and THC are so similar to those natural cannabinoids that they can bind to the same receptors and affect the outcome of neurological signaling through the ECS in the brain and other parts of the body. That explains why [cannabis compounds can affect the expression of appetite-related signals from the \r\nhypothalamus](https://www.nature.com/news/marijuana-flips-appetite-switch-in-brain-1.16957).\r\n\r\nSo far, research has discovered two cannabinoid receptors, called CB1 and CB2. The hypothalamus contains numerous CB1 receptors that can bind both with the natural 2AG and anandamide as well as with cannabinoids from cannabis. Recent studies show that when THC binds to these receptors, it can stimulate the release of ghrelin to cause feelings of hunger. \r\n\r\nCannabinoids can also affect the production of leptin thanks to their [effects on an enzyme called AMP-activated Kinase, or AMPK](http://www.jbc.org/content/280/26/25196.full). In the hypothalamus, AMPK helps [link the appetite-stimulating effects of cannabinoids and ghrelin](https://www.nature.com/articles/35071088), and that combination appears to affect the production of leptin in adipose, or fatty, tissue. \r\n\r\nWhat’s more, THC and other cannabinoids may also stimulate the olfactory bulb, so that food tastes and smells better. Along with those effects, cannabinoids also encourage the release of dopamine, the feel-good chemical at the center of the pleasure-reward circuit, so that eating is a pleasant experience.\r\n\r\n### Treating Appetite Loss With Cannabis\r\n\r\nThe effects of cannabis on appetite and hunger can help people who experience a loss of appetite due to circumstances such as chemotherapy for cancer, or those with illnesses such as HIV/AIDS. Cannabis in all its forms can help stimulate feelings of hunger and make food taste better, so that patients eat more, improve nutrition and gain back lost weight. Gaining weight also means a higher percentage of fat cells, which encourages the production of leptin.\r\n\r\nResearch on the effects of cannabis on appetite has also explored the uses of cannabis for weight loss. That led to the production in the early 2000s of a few drugs such as rimonabant and taranabent that target the brain’s CB1 receptors to reduce appetite rather than increase it. \r\n\r\nBut these drugs had a number of undesirable side effects such as depression and anxiety, so they were taken off the market for retooling. Still, this line of research points to the fact that cannabinoids can play a major role in appetite and hunger responses.\r\n\r\nCannabis can affect people very differently—and some may get the munchies more than others do, or not at all. But because THC and other cannabinoids can boost hunger messages to the brain, cannabis products can stimulate the appetite—and help people with low appetite and weight loss from a variety of conditions to eat more, gain weight and feel better.\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Gardie Design & Social media Marketing](https://unsplash.com/@gardiept)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/14b42/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg","srcSet":"/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/f836f/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 200w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/2244e/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 400w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/14b42/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 800w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/47498/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 1200w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/0e329/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 1600w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/ea7dd/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.jpg 2500w","srcWebp":"/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/58556/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/61e93/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 200w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/1f5c5/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 400w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/58556/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 800w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/99238/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 1200w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/7c22d/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 1600w,\n/static/3bd196823618c3480cd9c7d527710b87/dc072/013ff355cc20e59858c986f434a9681d.webp 2500w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2625-markdown","title":"Cannabis & Your Hormones: A Complex Connection","slug":"cannabis-and-your-hormones-a-complex-connection","content":"Hormone therapies are used to treat a variety of conditions ranging from \nmenopause to health-threatening hormone imbalances to gender transition \ntherapies and even cancer. Now, recent discoveries about the endocannabinoid \nsystem (ECS) and the production of hormones reveal new ways in which \ncannabis compounds can affect hormone-related conditions and the therapies \nthat treat them.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Hormones 101\n\nHormones are produced and expressed in the same way for both men and \nwomen, although different hormones predominate for each sex—and those \ndifferences also play a role in how cannabis affects hormone-related conditions \nand therapies. \n\nThe hormone system is really part of a larger network of transmitters called the \nendocrine system, which also includes the thyroid, parathyroid and adrenal \nglands. Hormone production itself is controlled by activity in the pituitary gland \nand hypothalamus. The pituitary gland along with the hypothalamus is also \ncalled the hypothyroid-pituitary-gonadotropin axis (HPG axis) and is \nresponsible for triggering the release of gonadotropin releasing hormone \n(GnRH).  \n\nThe HPG axis also stimulates the production of both follicle stimulating \nhormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) and when FSH and LH act on the \ngonads, they lead to the production of a number of hormones including \nestrogen estradiol, progesterone, androgen and testosterone. \n\nAlthough hormones are most directly involved in expressing sex differences \nand supporting reproduction, they also play a role in regulating many other \nprocesses in the body. Hormones affect the development of bones and muscle, \nsupport brain health and more. Imbalances in the endocrine system can lead to \na variety of diseases, including diabetes and thyroid problems. \n\nAs far back as the 1980s, studies have shown a [connection between cannabis \nand hormones](http://www.ukcia.org/research/EndocrineEffects.pdf). With the \ndiscovery of the ECS in the early 1990s, the reasons behind that connection are \nbecoming increasingly clear—and posing new questions at the same time.  \n\n### Cannabinoids Affect Hormones in Complex Ways\n\nThe ECS is closely entwined with all other major neurotransmitter signaling \nsystems in the body, including the endocrine system. That’s why cannabinoids, \neither the body’s own anandamide and 2-AG, or compounds from cannabis \n[can affect the production and behavior of hormones](https://www.drnorthrup.com/tag/cbd-oil/) both in the reproductive system and \nin other circumstances, such as the development of cancer. \n\nThe ECS is a large, dense network of receptors located in the organs, tissues \nand brain. Those receptors respond both to cannabinoid chemicals produced \nby the body and the many compounds found in the cannabis plant, particularly \ntetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). Because the compounds in \ncannabis are so similar to those produced naturally in the body, cannabis \nproducts of all kinds can have profound effects on many different processes, \nincluding the workings of the endocrine system and the production and \nexpression of hormones.\n\nSome research suggests that [the ECS might in fact play a major role in the \nproduction of hormones in the HPG axis](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s40429-016-0114-y). The \nhypothalamus is rich in the cannabinoid receptor CB1, as is [parts of the pituitary gland](https://www.researchgate.net/publication/12838973_Identification_of_endocan\nnabinoids_and_cannabinoid_CB1_receptor_mRNA_in_the_pituitary_gland) as \nwell as other components of the endocrine system. Plus, both the ovaries and \ntestes contain large numbers of cannabinoid receptors, too.\n\n### Menopause & Hormone Replacement Therapy\n\nFor a number of women, menopause—that midlife change when fertility \ndeclines and eventually ends as menstrual periods come to a stop—brings a \nrange of symptoms including hot flashes, mood swings, insomnia and \nproblems concentrating, as hormone levels begin to decline and become \nimbalanced. In perimenopause—the years leading up to full menopause—some \nwomen can experience all those symptoms, plus painful and irregular periods, \neven if they never had period problems before. \n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA RELIEVES SYMPTOMS OF MENOPAUSE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-\nwellness/5817c7fad07155000b1f2f9f/marijuana-relieves-symptoms-of-\nmenopause)\n\nTo relieve these symptoms and allow sufferers to conduct normal lives, doctors \nfrequently prescribe hormone replacement therapy (HRT), a protocol that’s \nintended to replace declining levels of reproductive hormones. But this kind of \ntherapy brings with it a heightened risk of cancer, especially breast cancer.\n\nWomen at a higher risk for certain kinds of cancers are usually advised not to \ntake HRT, or to keep the treatments short—and some doctors are advising \npatients not to do it at all. Many women on their own are deciding in favor of \nmore natural alternatives for the ills of menopause, even if they aren’t sure what \nthose remedies might be.  \n\nAn increasing number of women are finding that [cannabis products can help \nrelieve menopause symptoms](https://www.impactcannabis.org/medical-\nmarijuana-menopause) without the risk of HRT’s harmful effects. Marijuana can \neven be used to replace hormone therapy altogether for some people—or allow \nusers to reduce their dose.  \n\nCannabis, especially its non-psychoactive component CBD, can affect \ncannabis receptors in the brain and reproductive system to block pain, regulate \nthe body’s temperature to avoid hot flashes, and generally do the things HRT \ncan do—but without the potentially deadly side effects. And because doctors \nfrequently prescribe other drugs such as sleep aids and antidepressants along \nwith HRT, marijuana can reduce or eliminate the need for those additional \ndrugs, too.  \n\nCannabis has a wide range of benefits for women’s reproductive health in \ngeneral, from easing the discomfort of breast tenderness and painful menstrual \ncramps during a woman’s cycle to  reducing symptoms after menopause such \nas vaginal dryness. Some research suggests that an endocannabinoid \ndeficiency might be the cause of early menopause and some of the severe \nsymptoms associated with menstruation and menopause in general, so \ncannabis products might eliminate the deficiency—and with it, the need for \nHRT and other medications for treating menstrual and menopause symptoms.  \n\n### Supplemental Hormone Therapies\n\nThe potential use of cannabis for menopause-related hormone therapy \nsymptoms has been relatively well studied, but less research has been done on \nits benefits and risks for other situations where hormone therapy is used. Still, \nrecent discoveries about the relationship between cannabis and hormones can \nreveal more about the contribution cannabis can make in those situations.  \n\nHormone therapy is used to supplement hormone production when it’s out of \nbalance, or the body simply doesn’t make enough essential hormones on its \nown. That kind of deficit can lead to growth abnormalities, bone deformities \nand problems with muscle tone—and it can affect both males and females. \nBecause the ECS can affect the endocrine system, cannabis products, \nespecially those high in CBD, may be able to help restore the endocrine \nsystem’s balance.\n\n### Transgender Hormone Therapies\n\nTransgender individuals typically take a number of cross-sex hormones as part \nof their transition, and most people take them for life. For transgender men, that \ncan include injections, timed release implants or oral doses of testosterone and \nandrogen, along with other medications to suppress female hormones. For \ntransgender women, medication protocols include high doses of estrogen and \nanti-androgens to suppress masculine features. \n\nHormone therapies can play an important role in a transgendered person’s \nmental health and overall well-being, but [these treatments come at a cost](http://www.eje-online.org/content/159/3/197.short). High doses of \nhormones and related medications to suppress some of them can cause a \nrange of health problems including reduced bone density, heart problems and \ndeep vein thrombosis. Because hormone therapy for transgendered people can \nlast for years, or a lifetime, it can also contribute to the development of certain \nhormone-sensitive tumors.  \n\nAmerican research on the use of cannabis for health conditions of all kinds has \nbeen stymied by legal restrictions and public perceptions about the dangers of \nmarijuana—and those perceptions, along with others about gender dysphoria \nand transitioning, also limit studies on the uses of cannabis in transgender \nhormone therapies. \n\nBut because cross-sex hormone therapies act on the HPG axis to [affect the \nexpression or suppression of one or more of those hormones](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5182227/), the effects of \ncannabis on the ECS may also help support heart and bone health during \ntreatment, and also help reduce the depression and anxiety many \ntransgendered people frequently experience. \n\n### Hormone Therapy for Cancer\n\nHormone therapy can be used to treat various cancers, too—but it’s used with \ncaution. Some kinds of tumors, especially in the breast and prostate, can be \nhormone-responsive, meaning that high levels of some hormones, particularly \nestrogen, can actually encourage tumors to grow. Some research indicates that \nbecause cannabis doesn’t contain hormones, it could be used to support \nhormone therapy for certain cancers.\n\nThe effects of cannabis on hormones aren’t always clear or easily predictable. \nFor example, it’s now known that [high levels of estrogen seem to make people \nmore responsive to the effects of cannabis](https://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2014-09/wsu-eic082814.php). Some \nstudies suggest that using large amounts of cannabis, especially when it has \nhigh concentrations of THC, might suppress the body’s production of \ntestosterone and androgen, two hormones essential for the expression of male \nsexual characteristics and for fertility. \n\nStill, the deep connections between cannabinoids and the body’s own hormone \nsystem indicate that cannabis products can play a powerful role in hormone \ntherapy for a long list of conditions.\n\nPhoto credit: [Jaime](https://www.flickr.com/people/jamiesrabbits/)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis \n101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can \nhelp you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and \n100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/14b42/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg","srcSet":"/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/f836f/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 200w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/2244e/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 400w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/14b42/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 800w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/47498/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 1200w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/0e329/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 1600w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/73db0/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.jpg 2275w","srcWebp":"/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/58556/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/61e93/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 200w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/1f5c5/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 400w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/58556/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 800w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/99238/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 1200w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/7c22d/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 1600w,\n/static/f4f34be9b5e024d07fc90bdee65b54d3/5f38a/d3ae2ff1819074362196937e5b76b396.webp 2275w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2128-markdown","title":"Why Does Cannabis Make You Feel Good?","slug":"why-does-cannabis-make-you-feel-good","content":"It was long believed that the “high” associated with cannabis was caused by a flood of dopamine released by the consumption of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). This theory has been largely discredited, though it's still believed that cannabinoid receptors in the body are closely linked to the body's reward system. Cannabis, when compared to drugs like amphetamines and cocaine, only produces a moderate amount of dopamine. THC does, however, work on the same receptors as our bodies’ naturally occurring, pleasure-inducing endocannabinoid, anandamide. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### Cannabis's Connection to Anandamide, the Feel-Good Molecule\r\n\r\nAnandamide is a neurotransmitter that's believed to be the true cause of the euphoria related to cannabis. Anandamide, which is one of the body's natural endocannabinoids, is known to produce joy and happiness. It also plays a role in memory, motivation, pain, appetite and fertility. It's the binding of anandamide with the CB1 receptor that produces the “feel good” effect that is similar to that associated with cannabis usage. \r\n\r\nMeanwhile, a study published in 2014 in the journal *Transitional Medicine* found that [anandamide can even affect the growth of breast cancer cells](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4140423/). The study found that anandamide inhibits pro-angiogenic factors, which provides its anti-tumor efficacy. Anandamide, which is very fragile, also has anti-anxiety and anti-depressant properties. \r\n\r\nTHC in cannabis works on the same receptors that anandamide does, allowing it to stimulate happy and euphoric feelings in a similar way. THC works to supplement the body's internally produced anandamide. This is why it can help boost people's moods. Cannabis, however, doesn't always have joy-producing effects on people. Some folks may experience negative effects from using cannabis—this effect is also linked to anandamide. \r\n\r\n### Why Do Some Folks Feel Anxious After Using Cannabis?\r\n\r\nFAAH, also known as fatty acid amide hydrolase, is a naturally occurring molecule in the body that deactivates anandamide. People are genetically predisposed to produce more or less FAAH, which changes the levels of anandamide in their body.\r\n\r\nFolks with less FAAH, who naturally have more anandamide, tend to have more anxiety-producing effects from cannabis. This is because their increased levels of anandamide quicken the biphasic effects of cannabis. Since they already have higher levels of anandamide binding to their CB1 receptors, they can easily be overwhelmed by smaller levels of THC, which binds to the same receptors. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [WHEN MARIJUANA MAKES YOU FEEL ANXIOUS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/59a6d4c3d651df274bd05e93/when-marijuana-makes-you-feel-anxious)\r\n\r\n### Anandamide, Chocolate and the Runner's High\r\n\r\nCannabis isn't the only thing that can stimulate anandamide and boost your mood. Chocolate, which contains theobromine, is believed to cause the brain to produce more anandamide. Theobromine is a relaxant that is related to caffeine that is believed to stimulate anandamide production in the body. Chocolate also contains molecules that slow the breakdown of anandamide. The stimulation of anandamide is believed to be one of the main reasons why chocolate is one of the most commonly craved foods. Other foods, including truffles, parsley, tea and celery, also contain anandamide or stimulate its production. Exercise also can produce anandamide. The “runner's high” associated with working out is actually related to increased anandamide production, rather than just by a flood of endorphins as previously thought.\r\n\r\n_____________________________________________________________________\r\n\r\nIf you're new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3333333333333333,"src":"/static/c46e122669688ba957a90882975cbc15/ee604/359519734b2b62762faf609ec7fdd8da.png","srcSet":"/static/c46e122669688ba957a90882975cbc15/69585/359519734b2b62762faf609ec7fdd8da.png 200w,\n/static/c46e122669688ba957a90882975cbc15/497c6/359519734b2b62762faf609ec7fdd8da.png 400w,\n/static/c46e122669688ba957a90882975cbc15/ee604/359519734b2b62762faf609ec7fdd8da.png 800w,\n/static/c46e122669688ba957a90882975cbc15/4c5c8/359519734b2b62762faf609ec7fdd8da.png 1004w","srcWebp":"/static/c46e122669688ba957a90882975cbc15/58556/359519734b2b62762faf609ec7fdd8da.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c46e122669688ba957a90882975cbc15/61e93/359519734b2b62762faf609ec7fdd8da.webp 200w,\n/static/c46e122669688ba957a90882975cbc15/1f5c5/359519734b2b62762faf609ec7fdd8da.webp 400w,\n/static/c46e122669688ba957a90882975cbc15/58556/359519734b2b62762faf609ec7fdd8da.webp 800w,\n/static/c46e122669688ba957a90882975cbc15/eddbc/359519734b2b62762faf609ec7fdd8da.webp 1004w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5357,"name":"Hormones","slug":"hormones","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}