{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/weight-loss/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3824-markdown","title":"Marijuana Can Help You Lose Weight - with the Help of THCV and CBD","slug":"marijuana-can-help-you-lose-weight-with-the-help-of-thcv-and-cbd","content":"Historically, cannabis has been associated with laziness, confusion, and  [\"the munchies.\"](https://hellomd.com/articles/what-are-munchies-and-why-do-you-get-them-when-you-smoke-weed) Most people believe consuming marijuana will make you gain weight and induce binge eating. But, new research suggests that cannabis might [help consumers lose weight](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-munchies-will-make-you-fat-right-think-again) rather than gain weight.\n\n![Can CBD help you lose weight?](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_11_at_3_50_45_PM_e7f82a56e9.png)\n\nWhile there is [plenty of evidence that weed helps boost appetite](https://hellomd.com/articles/the-science-behind-how-cannabis-can-boost-your-appetite), the stereotype that weed consumers are overweight (or unhealthy) is also largely inaccurate. \n\nThere are cannabinoids within the cannabis plant being studied due to their potential to suppress appetite and help with weight loss. Specifically, the cannabinoids CBD and THCV are helping marijuana consumers, on average, weigh less than non-users! \n\n![Not all cannabis creates the 'munchies'](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_1_36_32_PM_2fdb249062.png)\n\n### Top Products with CBD to Boost Metabolism\n\nStudies have shown that [CBD can help you lose weight by boosting your metabolism](https://hellomd.com/articles/using-cbd-as-a-tool-for-weight-loss). One study [showed that rodents injected with CBD](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-for-weight-loss#weight-loss) experienced significant weight loss. In another study, CBD reduced appetite in rats more than that of other cannabinoids, including cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN).\n\n![CBD can help boost metabolism and burn bad fat cells](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_1_37_32_PM_4ea3fdd74a.png)\n\nA more recent study (not on rats) draws ties between CBD and the burning of fat cells. In the 2018 \"Role of Cannabinoids in Obesity\" study, published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, which [documents CBD's role in the browning of fat cells and makes the connection to burning calories](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6163475/).\n\nIn short, it appears that [CBD can boost metabolism and help with weight loss in three ways](https://hellomd.com/articles/can-cbd-speed-up-your-metabolism): \n\n- Increasing the body's ability to burn calories by boosting the activity of the mitochondria in cells \n- Decreasing the availability of proteins that are necessary to generate fat cells \n- Aiding in the browning of fat by stimulating genes and proteins to more effectively break down and oxidize fat cells\n\n![CBD vapes is a great way to consume more CBD for weight loss](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_1_38_59_PM_d05237f478.png)\n\nTo bolster your daily CBD intake, look at a CBD-rich formulation such as [2:1 Day Off](https://www.verilife.com/il/menu-arlington-heights-recreational). This disposable vape pen is available at Verilife Arlington Heights in Illinois for $43.00. The 300mg disposable vape and is more discreet than a joint and faster-acting than edibles.\n\nAnother option for boosting your metabolism is to use a high-CBD marijuana strain like [CBD Shark](https://hellomd.com/strains/cbd-shark). This strain has equal parts CBD and THC, which is perfect for those looking for a lighter \"high\" feeling while still taking advantage of the benefits that come with CBD, such as potential weight loss. \n\n![Tribe Tokes vape cartridge](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_1_35_11_PM_83261303e9.png)\n\n[TribeTokes has a vape cartridge](https://tribetokes.com/product-item/cbd-shark-indica-cbd-vape-oil-cartridge-half-gram/) available with distillate from the CBD Shark strain for $50.00.This vape has only 2 ingredients: full spectrum CBD distillate and natural plant terpenes.\n\nOther options for ingesting CBD include edibles, tinctures, gel caps, drinks, and even dissolvable powders.\n\n### Top Cannabis Products with THCV\n\nTetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) is a rarer cannabinoid that's [called \"the sports car of cannabinoids\" for its various sought-after properties](https://www.steephill.com/blogs/38). Many in the cannabis space hailing products with THCV to be appetite suppressants. The reason it may work is that [THCV blocks the body's CB1 receptor](https://www.laweekly.com/thcv-the-best-thcv-for-weight-loss-and-energy/), which helps to suppress hunger. \n\nTHCV is still relatively new to the market, so there is not an abundance of products with the cannabinoid. Here are some products we found that contain THCV. Try it out for yourself!\n\n![A THCV tincture by the cannabis brand RARE](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_1_41_09_PM_b1e2f21a5c.png)\n\n[Rare Cannabinoid Company's THCV Uplift tincture](https://www.rarecannabinoidco.com/product/thcv-uplift-single/) can be purchased online for $119. This tincture contains a uniquely high level of tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) in certified organic MCT coconut oil to let you harness the benefits of THCV. \n\n![THCV tablinguals by LEVEL](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_1_42_07_PM_d7502ee6fc.png)\n\n[Level Blends' Stimulate THCV Enriched Tablinguals](https://levelexperience.com/products/stimulate-tablingual/) is available at [Zenganic in Oakland](https://www.leafly.com/dispensary-info/east-bay-meds)and [Kind Courier in San Francisco](https://www.leafly.com/dispensary-info/kind-courier). The tablets contain a microdose of THC while bolstering your THCV levels for enhanced focused and decreased appetite. \n\n![Zero vape cartridge by Suicide Girls](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_1_43_21_PM_388dad2776.png)\n\n[Zero Vape by Suicide Girls](https://chill.suicidegirls.com) is available at [Coast to Coast Collective](https://www.leafly.com/dispensary-info/coast-to-coast-collective) in Los Angeles, [South Coast Safe Access](https://www.leafly.com/dispensary-info/scsa) in Santa Ana, and [MedMen](https://www.leafly.com/dispensary-info/medmenweho) in West Hollywood. This \"diet weed\" pen contains equal amounts of CO2 extracted THCV and THC (60%), perfect for consumers looking to shed some weight without getting exceedingly \"high.\" \n\n![Wana brand Fit gummie with THCV](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_1_44_46_PM_6d5e0da5c8.png)\n\n[Wana's Fit Gummie](https://www.wanabrands.com/product/fit-rec/) is a great product to get you started on this journey - available in California and Colorado. These edibles allow you to harness the power of THCV to help disrupt unhelpful eating habits and put you back in control of your diet. They won't make you feel high, so you can take one tropical-punch-flavored gummie everyday to experience the full long-term benefits of this remarkable plant-based tool.\n\n### Remember, People who Consumer Weed Weigh Less!\n\n![CBD may help boost the metabolism](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_06_at_4_18_34_PM_8a14188ded.png)\n\nAccording to a study by Michigan State University, [those who consume cannabis weigh less than those who don't](https://academic.oup.com/ije/article/48/5/1695/5382155?login=true).\nParticipants were studied for three years and at the end of the study, researchers found that cannabis users, even those who just started, were more likely to be at a normal, healthier weight and stay at that weight than those who never consumed marijuana. \n\nKeep this in mind when considering weight loss plans. You can combine cannabis with a healthy lifestyle to not only lose weight but make the process more enjoyable. \n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\n![Get your medical marijuana card through HelloMD](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_01_12_at_12_13_40_PM_0165a81efd.png)\n\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and start purchasing medical cannabis today.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/14b42/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/f836f/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.jpg 200w,\n/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/2244e/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.jpg 400w,\n/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/14b42/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.jpg 800w,\n/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/47498/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/0e329/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/6475a/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.jpg 5665w","srcWebp":"/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/58556/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/61e93/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.webp 200w,\n/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/1f5c5/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.webp 400w,\n/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/58556/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.webp 800w,\n/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/99238/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.webp 1200w,\n/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/7c22d/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.webp 1600w,\n/static/4b43de8b2d85384d048082e46c8bd5be/21e6d/4f075f6d3547f5c5aee8426a3b3fb2b2.webp 5665w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3009-markdown","title":"Using CBD as a Tool for Weight Loss","slug":"using-cbd-as-a-tool-for-weight-loss","content":"Losing weight is simple. Just burn more calories than you consume.\n\nIf you’ve ever tried to lose weight before, you know it’s not that simple. Between this obvious fact and the pursuit of your ideal body weight, there are a million diets and exercise plans, boatloads of grief over poor body image, and a merry-go-around of weight loss and weight gain that many of us can never seem to escape.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nSo, what’s the best diet for losing weight? Experts say it’s one that works for your particular body type, metabolism and needs. Preferably one that’s healthy and easy to maintain.\n\nYou may want to consider speaking to a nutritionist or wellness coach to help you develop a plan that works best for you. And when creating that plan, you may also want to incorporate the appetite-reducing benefits of marijuana generally and cannabidiol (CBD) in particular. \n \nCannabis—and CBD in particular—can help folks lose weight? So it seems. There are some promising studies and lots of anecdotal evidence about the efficacy of CBD for weight loss. According to three female friends experimenting with CBD for appetite reduction: \n\n“[We squeezed a few drops of CBD-infused oil under our tongues and waited. An hour later, at the time we’d planned to have dinner, we noticed we weren’t especially hungry](https://www.huffpost.com/entry/can-cbd-help-you-lose-weight_b_58ae853ce4b0ea6ee3d035e6?guccounter=1&guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&guce_referrer_sig=AQAAACEEKxfw9XEUp6NYF3zJ4Hnt7kaJBS1ypd6zdbRh9tJRbPbhf0bXDadWYSSAh9AeZW-yS5c0yBCzWqcKeD3bU14iCLK7seShfs2Xhr9nrBFGpHubkaHhrHYq2VhKkQ_95TycluD-c4vKMujJKd6_8HUoxlD0vM3CkFH13L-Lye7X). All thoughts of food had been swept away. If this  effect were widely known, Tina said, ‘cannabis would be legal in 20 minutes.’”\n\n### Quelling Food Cravings With Cannabis\n\nOf course, taking any form of cannabis for weight loss flies in the face of popular perception. This is because marijuana is often times associated with increasing food cravings. Also, because the plant has been used medically to help people put on weight when, say, faced with the poor appetite that may come with cancer treatments. \n\nTetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive cannabinoid, works on the part of the brain that controls hunger and boosts dopamine, the feel-good brain chemical, helping increase your pleasure from eating. \n\nEven so, consuming marijuana doesn’t necessarily equate to weight gain. “Studies indicate that [regular heavy cannabis users tend to be leaner than age- and gender-matched groups of nonusers](https://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/wellness/marijuana-gives-you-the-munchies-what-about-cbd/2019/01/07/7a793076-0ebc-11e9-8938-5898adc28fa2_story.html?noredirect=on&utm_term=.ccd9b2884130),” says George Kunos, scientific director at the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism in the National Institutes of Health. \n\nIt seems that high doses of THC could serve to suppress the number of CB1 receptors that are part of the endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is a network of receptors found throughout the body, and its receptors are split into two types: CB1 and CB2. Researchers have found that the CB1 receptor is often linked to obesity.\n\nThere’s also a lesser-known cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), which is showing promise as an appetite suppressant. However, since THCV is only present in small quantities in cannabis plants, it’s difficult to extract and process into commercial quantities.\n\nRELATED CONTENT: [PSYCHOACTIVE THCV: THE CANNABINOID THAT KILLS YOUR APPETITE](https://hellomd.com/articles/psychoactive-thcv-the-cannabinoid-that-kills-your-appetite/)\n\nThis is where CBD comes in. It doesn’t directly activate the CB1 receptors, and so doesn’t bring on the munchies like THC can. And while more research is required, there are tantalizing suggestions that CBD may serve as an appetite suppressant that could come into wider use.\n\n### The Evidence for CBD in Promoting Weight Loss\n\nLike much of the cannabis research out there, [assessing CBD’s hunger-killing capabilities begins with rats](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-oil-for-weight-loss#weight-loss). One study showed that rodents injected with CBD experienced significant weight loss. And in another study, CBD reduced appetite in rats more than that of other cannabinoids, including cannabigerol (CBG) and cannabinol (CBN).\n\nCBD may also play a role in converting white fat to brown fat. While white fat is associated with chronic illnesses, such as diabetes and heart disease, brown fat actually generates heat by burning calories. \n\nA 2016 study suggests that [CBD wears a number of different hats when interacting with fat in your body](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27067870)—converting white fat to brown and stimulating the body to break down fats more effectively. \n\nThen there’s the 2018 “Role of Cannabinoids in Obesity” study, published in the _International Journal of Molecular Sciences_, which [documents CBD’s role in the browning of fat cells and makes the connection to burning calories](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6163475/).\n\n### CBD as Part of a Sensible Weight Loss Regime\n\nSo, is CBD a miracle weight-loss solution? Probably not. Miracle cures are few and far between. But, with more in-depth human research, it may turn out that CBD does have a role to play as a useful tool in a larger, well-thought out diet and exercise plan.\n\nAs the Mayo Clinic points out:\n\n“Hundreds of fad diets, weight-loss programs and outright scams promise quick and easy weight loss. However, the foundation of successful weight loss remains a healthy, calorie-controlled diet combined with increased physical activity. [For successful, long-term weight loss, you must make permanent changes in your lifestyle and health habits](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/weight-loss/in-depth/weight-loss/art-20047752).”\n\nSuch lifestyle changes include:\n\n* Making a long-term commitment to weight loss\n* Finding the right motivation\n* Setting realistic goals\n* Eating healthier foods\n* Staying active\n* Changing your perspective\n\nThe last point may involve a shift from hating the way you look and wanting a fast change to being more accepting of who you are and your appearance. Try simple and achievable steps to commit to a healthier lifestyle—including adding CBD to your daily routine—plus being kind to yourself when you stumble.\n\nPhoto credit: Tropical studio/Shutterstock.com\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. And if you have questions about cannabis, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/14b42/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.jpg","srcSet":"/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/f836f/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.jpg 200w,\n/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/2244e/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.jpg 400w,\n/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/14b42/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.jpg 800w,\n/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/47498/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.jpg 1200w,\n/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/0e329/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.jpg 1600w,\n/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/ffa36/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.jpg 1773w","srcWebp":"/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/58556/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/61e93/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.webp 200w,\n/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/1f5c5/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.webp 400w,\n/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/58556/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.webp 800w,\n/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/99238/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.webp 1200w,\n/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/7c22d/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.webp 1600w,\n/static/acbc8ea7ec2a18591eeb8ba8f6513c93/d1528/9d1c8e5fa4dc528f079a1c91909ed130.webp 1773w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2906-markdown","title":"Can CBD Speed Up Your Metabolism?","slug":"can-cbd-speed-up-your-metabolism","content":"Every week, it seems there’s a new supplement or diet that promises to boost your metabolism and increase weight loss. But just as quickly as these products hit the scene, they fade into the crowded graveyard of short-lived health and wellness trends. \n\nWith so many fads out there, the question that inevitably comes up is: Are there any natural ways to increase metabolism and burn fat? \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_us/?utm_medium=copy_link/)\n\nYou’ve probably heard of cannabidiol (CBD)—a nonintoxicating cannabinoid found in cannabis—and its ability to help fight a variety of conditions like:\n\n* Intractable seizures\n* Anxiety\n* Chronic pain \n* Inflammation\n\nBut have you considered CBD to help speed up your metabolism? According to HelloMD’s co-founder Pamela Hadfield, adding CBD to her daily routine gave her metabolism the boost it needed to get rid of some stubborn baby weight hanging around after her last pregnancy. \n\nRELATED: [CBD OIL VS. HEMP OIL ](https://hellomd.ca/articles/cbd-oil-vs-hemp-oil-is-one-better-than-the-other/)\n\nAnecdotal evidence has long been the guiding light for cannabis-related research. So, what do researchers have to say about the metabolism-boosting claims around CBD?\n\n### What Is Metabolism?\n\nBefore diving into relevant research on CBD’s ability to influence metabolism, let’s get the facts straight. What is metabolism? And why is boosting metabolism integral to weight loss?\n\nYour body needs a certain level of energy to perform basic functions, like breathing and pumping blood. Metabolism is a combination of metabolic processes that create this energy. Metabolism converts food and nutrients into energy and rids the body of waste products. It’s responsible for delivering nutrients on the cellular level, which go on to create energy for muscles, nerves and cells. \n\nWhen people discuss metabolism in the context of weight loss, they’re referring to the rate at which the body burns calories into energy. Everyone’s metabolic rate is different. And that rate can even vary day to day, depending on what activities you’re doing and what you’re eating. \n\nGenerally speaking, the faster the metabolism, the better for weight loss. The more calories that can be burned in the form of energy, the easier it is to maintain a healthy weight. And while some aspects of metabolism are immutable, based on genetics and age, there are some natural ways to boost the body’s metabolic rate. \n\n### How the Endocannabinoid System Influences Metabolism \n\nThe endocannabinoid system (ECS) is the network in the body that processes cannabinoids like CBD. It does this via an intricate system of two types of receptors called CB1 and CB2. Cannabinoids interact with these receptors like a lock and key. \n\nThese receptors are found throughout the body, including in the brain and digestive tract, and influence many physiological processes like metabolism and appetite. Specifically, the ECS is thought to aid in transporting nutrients and storing energy.\n\nBut not all of the ECS’s influence on metabolism is positive. Over-activation of the ECS, specifically CB1 receptors, [can actually slow metabolism down](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2228268/). The CB1 receptors can be over-activated by consuming too much of certain cannabinoids, like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabinol (CBN). This can lead to increased:\n\n* Belly fat\n* Appetite\n* Blood sugar\n* Blood pressure \n\nLuckily, not all cannabinoids have this effect. \n\nRELATED: [HAVING TROUBLE SLEEPING? TRY NON-PSYCHOACTIVE CBN](https://hellomd.com/articles/having-trouble-sleeping-try-non-psychoactive-cbn/)\n\n### Using CBD to Boost Metabolism\n\nIf you want to speed up metabolism with a natural supplement, CBD is an increasingly promising option for a number of reasons. First, CBD can actually keep CB1 receptors from being over-activated. That’s because CBD is a CB1 antagonist, meaning it keeps CB1 receptors from activating and can work to rev up metabolism as a result. \n\nThere are some other interesting ways CBD works to boost metabolism. A study conducted by Korean researchers and published in the _Journal of Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry_ observed CBD’s effect on immature fat cells. The researchers concluded that [CBD boosts metabolism in three ways](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11010-016-2702-5): \n\n1. Increasing the body’s ability to burn calories by boosting the activity of the mitochondria in cells \n2. Decreasing the availability of proteins that are necessary to generate fat cells  \n3. Aiding in the browning of fat by stimulating genes and proteins to more effectively break down and oxidize fat cells \n\n### CBD & Fat Browning: What You Need to Know \n\nThe final point in the list above is one of the most interesting aspects of CBD for boosting metabolism and aiding in weight loss. \n\nDid you know not all fat is unhealthy? Did you even know there were different types of fat? If not, no worries. Even scientific researchers are just beginning to really dive into the difference between white and brown fat. What’s fueling this new interest on the topic is something called fat browning.\n\nWhite-colored fatty tissue stores energy in the body. This is the type of fat that’s associated with negative health outcomes, like increased risk of heart disease and diabetes. \n\nOn the other hand, brown fatty tissue burns energy and can actually increase weight loss. According to a study from the _Diabetes & Metabolism Journal_, [brown fat can increase energy expenditure and produce heat, limiting weight gain](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4768046/).\n\nAnd the more brown fat in your body, the more effective it is. Researchers from this study go so far as to say that brown fat is a “good candidate organ to treat obesity and its related disorders.” \n\nLuckily, it’s possible to turn white fat into brown fat. Researchers know that through a process of activating immune cells in the fat and/or cold exposure, white fatty tissue can turn into its more effective sibling.\n\nBut as the study referenced above suggests, [CBD can also turn white fat into brown fat](https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11010-016-2702-5), boosting metabolism, burning more energy and limiting weight gain. \n\nWhile more research is always needed, the studies that do exist on the topic of CBD and metabolism are promising. If you’ve had personal experiences with weight loss or a boost to your metabolism after taking CBD, we’d love to hear about it in the comments.\n\nPhoto credit: [Peter Conlan](https://unsplash.com/@peterconlan)\n\nWant to try CBD, but don’t know where to start? [Shop our selection of high-quality, lab-tested CBD products](https://hellomd.com/)and have them shipped to your door. And if you have questions about CBD, [ask them](https://hellomd.com/questions-and-answers/) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/14b42/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/f836f/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.jpg 200w,\n/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/2244e/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.jpg 400w,\n/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/14b42/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.jpg 800w,\n/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/47498/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/0e329/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.jpg 1600w,\n/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/d59ca/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.jpg 3666w","srcWebp":"/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/58556/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/61e93/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.webp 200w,\n/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/1f5c5/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.webp 400w,\n/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/58556/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.webp 800w,\n/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/99238/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.webp 1200w,\n/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/7c22d/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.webp 1600w,\n/static/ec7a3804af541eee2db732c463039f04/53f94/0fff638b63882777b5daeb5d96cf1c6b.webp 3666w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2644-markdown","title":"Can Cannabis Help You Lose Weight? ","slug":"can-cannabis-help-you-lose-weight","content":"If you’ve seen the movies “Pineapple Express,” “Fast Times at Ridgemont High” or “Dazed and Confused,” you know popular culture doesn’t exactly portray cannabis consumers fairly. Each stoner character is lazy and scatterbrained with a penchant for pigging out on junk food.\r\n\r\nOne of the most dramatized aspects of cannabis is its ability to induce the munchies—the kind that adds inches to your waistline. While it’s true that marijuana can stimulate appetite, which is a major benefit for those dealing with appetite loss from chemotherapy or [wasting syndrome (cachexia)](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55aecd3266626600060d0000/has-cachexia-met-its-match-in-medical-marijuana), the idea that every puff of marijuana can send you into an hours-long eating binge is simply not accurate. \r\n\r\nIn fact, some of the more recent scientific explorations on cannabis and weight gain show the exact opposite relationship than many may expect. These studies show that:\r\n\r\n* Some cannabinoids are thought to suppress appetite, thereby promoting weight loss\r\n* Cannabis can positively affect obesity in mice\r\n* The plant can help folks at risk of metabolic syndrome \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\nIf you’ve done even the most basic research on cannabis, you’ve probably heard of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the cannabinoid responsible for making people feel high. But THC’s psychoactive effects aren’t the only notable feature of this chemical compound. In one study, researchers concluded that orally ingested THC reduced weight gain in mice eating a high-fat diet. But THC isn’t the only cannabinoid that can help with weight-loss goals. \r\n\r\n### THCV, the Cannabinoid That Suppresses Appetite\r\n\r\nThe cannabinoid that can help manage your weight is called [tetrahydrocannabivarin, also known as THCV](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5aa8a1f1f24d1300077ccb8a/the-10-cannabinoids-in-cannabis-you-should-know). This cannabinoid is very similar in structure to THC and produces some mild psychoactive effects as well, but it has one very interesting side effect: the ability to act as an appetite suppressant. \r\n\r\nTHCV is mostly found in marijuana sativa strains. [Durban Poison](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7cb16cd520d60009f4f4a3/durban-poison) contains relatively low quantities of the cannabinoid, while harder-to-find strains like Pineapple Purps and Doug’s Varin contain higher quantities of THCV. If you’re interested in THCV for its ability to regulate blood sugar and manage appetite, ask the cannabis consultant at your local dispensary for lab test results on sativa strains to find the one that has the highest THCV content. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [PSYCHOACTIVE THCV: THE CANNABINOID THAT KILLS YOUR APPETITE](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a8db389f24d1300077ccb5a/psychoactive-thcv-the-cannabinoid-that-kills-your-appetite)\r\n\r\n### Study Finds THC Can Reduce Weight & Fat Gain\r\n\r\nSo, can we really count weight loss as part of marijuana’s long list of positive medical applications? Studies have shown that [cannabis consumers tend to have a lower body mass index (BMI)](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27572145) than non-consumers do, but researchers stopped short of claiming any causal relationship between cannabis and BMI. Luckily, a few recent studies explore whether cannabis consumption leads to weight loss.  \r\n\r\nA 2015 study funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research [investigated the effects of chronic cannabis use on the body weight of mice](http://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0144270). Lean and overweight mice were treated daily with THC for four weeks and fed a high-fat diet. At the end of the month, the researchers observed the mice’s weight change, locomotor activity and whole gut transit.  \r\n\r\nThe researchers concluded that “THC reduced weight gain, fat mass gain and energy uptake” in obese mice. Interestingly, this finding didn’t hold for the lean mice—meaning, cannabis had no effect on their locomotor activity and whole gut transit. \r\n\r\nResearchers also discovered that daily cannabis use actually altered the gut microbiota, or the microbial population that lives in the intestine. Gut microbiota helps break down food, promotes healthy digestion, and can ultimately determine weight gain and loss. The researchers believe that orally ingested THC induced the change in gut microbiota, which likely contributed to the weight loss in obese mice.  \r\n\r\nRELATED: [THE MUNCHIES WILL MAKE YOU FAT, RIGHT? THINK AGAIN](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56cb9d8ececb1b000b000073/the-munchies-will-make-you-fat-right-think-again)\r\n\r\n### Marijuana Use Is Associated With Lower Metabolic Syndrome\r\n\r\nIn another study conducted in 2016 and published in the _American Journal of Medicine_ , [researchers looked into cannabis consumption and metabolic syndrome](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26548604/). Metabolic syndrome can be a nebulous term, but in this study it was defined as:\r\n\r\n* Elevated fasting glucose\r\n* High triglycerides\r\n* Low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol\r\n* Elevated systolic/diastolic blood pressure\r\n* Increased waist circumference \r\n\r\nBasically, metabolic syndrome is when someone experiences all of these conditions together, which makes them more susceptible to diabetes, stroke and heart disease. \r\n\r\nAdults between the ages of 20–59 were surveyed with respondents totaling 8,500. Some had never consumed cannabis, others had previously consumed marijuana, and another group comprised current cannabis consumers. The researchers found that less than 14% of current marijuana consumers were affected by metabolic syndrome, compared to 22% which is the national average for adults in the United States.\r\n\r\nResearchers concluded, “Current marijuana use is associated with lower odds of metabolic syndrome across emerging and middle-aged U.S. adults.” \r\n\r\nThese findings are promising for people with health issues that increase the risk of obesity such as:\r\n\r\n* Postpartum depression\r\n* Insulin resistance\r\n* Hypothyroidism\r\n* Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)\r\n* Cushing’s syndrome \r\n* Heightened stress \r\n\r\nIf you’re dealing with one of these issues and are worried about possible weight gain, cannabis could be a natural way to counteract that side effect. \r\n\r\nThere’s way more to the story when it comes to cannabis and your weight. Not only does marijuana appear to help you shed the pounds, but [it can also be used to make exercising more enjoyable](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a550d2ec7e0180007a78265/how-to-add-cannabis-to-your-fitness-routine). Some people actually find cannabis motivates them before and during a workout—yet another way marijuana can promote weight loss. Let us know in the comments if cannabis has helped you lose weight and how you incorporate marijuana into a healthy lifestyle. \r\n\r\nPhoto Credit: [Patricia Serna](https://unsplash.com/@sernarial)\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":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/14b42/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg","srcSet":"/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/f836f/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 200w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/2244e/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 400w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/14b42/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 800w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/47498/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 1200w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/0e329/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 1600w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/1e649/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.jpg 1981w","srcWebp":"/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/58556/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/61e93/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 200w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/1f5c5/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 400w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/58556/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 800w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/99238/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 1200w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/7c22d/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 1600w,\n/static/5f7f8d453b5e59f74f78ff2bb100c250/8aa02/8ef94233b6e436c499b26ce41b0eedb8.webp 1981w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":1,"currentPage":1,"id":5923,"name":"Weight Loss","slug":"weight-loss","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}