CBD and THCV Could they assist with Weight Loss?
Many people believe that cannabis can help with weight loss or maintaining a healthy weight. Some even claim it is beneficial for diabetes. This idea might seem counterintuitive, as cannabis is often associated with laziness and cravings for junk food.
While users of cannabis often report an increase in appetite, studies indicate that regular cannabis users tend to have a lower body mass index (BMI) compared to non-users.
The theory behind this paradox centers on the medicinal properties of cannabinoids, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This suggests that cannabis might help reduce inflammation and related issues that contribute to obesity.
Inflammation is a natural process that aids the immune system in fighting infections and injuries. However, chronic inflammation can lead to severe health issues such as cancer, heart disease, and obesity. Experts note that obesity is often linked to low-grade inflammation, which can contribute to the development of various metabolic disorders.
What About CBD for Weight Loss?
Cannabidiol (CBD) has demonstrated a wide range of antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects on several cell receptors, indicating that it can influence multiple systems in the body, including those related to pain, memory, appetite, and mood.
On a practical level, cannabis may help with weight management by serving as a substitute for alcohol. Research indicates that quitting drinking can lead to various health benefits, including weight loss.
The Potential of THCV
Among the cannabinoids, THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) shows promise for weight regulation. THCV is similar to THC but requires much higher doses to produce effects. It is considered more of a medicinal cannabinoid with potential therapeutic benefits for obesity, diabetes, and addiction.
One human study found that THCV lowered blood sugar levels and improved markers of pancreatic function. Insulin is produced by beta cells in the pancreas, which can lose effectiveness over time, leading to Type 2 diabetes. In the study, beta cells worked less hard, potentially delaying the onset of diabetes.
Another study revealed that THCV caused significant changes in reward and aversion patterns in the brain, suggesting it may have therapeutic effects on obesity without the risk of depression commonly associated with other weight-loss drugs.
However, it’s important to note that THCV is typically found in low concentrations in most cannabis strains. Therefore, a standard cannabis joint may not contain enough THCV to be effective. Despite the encouraging evidence, further research is needed to fully understand the interactions between cannabis and the endocannabinoid system and to assess any potential side effects.
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Liz Filmer
