The Surprising Link Between CBD and Weight Loss
CBD, or cannabidiol, has taken the health and wellness world by storm in recent times. It is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that interacts with our body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS).
CBD offers a variety of health benefits, including weight management.
You can come across a lot of confusing answers when you search for questions like:
- Does CBD make you lose weight?
- Does CBD help with weight loss?
- Does CBD cause weight gain?
So, can CBD help you shed those pesky pounds and maintain a healthier lifestyle? Or does CBD increase your appetite?
Let’s find out…
How CBD Works To Help You Lose Weight
CBD and Appetite
When it comes to appetite, CBD is a bit of a paradox. We know that CBD has the potential to minimize appetite, yet it can also evoke appetite in some individuals.
The key lies in how CBD interacts with our body’s endocannabinoid system, which plays a crucial role in regulating appetite and food intake.
CBD balances our endocannabinoid system, and the effects depend on what each person requires.
Say you don’t have much appetite, CBD can get your appetite going. Or if you’re trying to shed a few pounds, it can help control your hunger.
CBD may help kick-start your appetite by easing symptoms like nausea, discomfort, and stress that might otherwise hamper your desire to eat.
Research has also shown that CBD can help suppress appetite by interacting with CB1 receptors in the brain, which are involved in regulating food intake.
CBD and Metabolism
CBD can help boost your metabolism, making it easier for your body to burn fat and maintain a healthy weight. This is because the endocannabinoid system plays a significant role in energy metabolism and storage.
A 2015 study suggested that CBD can increase the activity of mitochondria, the cellular powerhouses responsible for energy production, leading to a more efficient metabolism.
In addition, CBD has been found to stimulate the expression of genes and proteins involved in fat oxidation, enabling the body to more effectively break down and burn fat.
Tips for Using CBD to Control Appetite
- Choose the right CBD product: Opt for a high-quality, full-spectrum CBD oil, which contains a wide range of cannabinoids that can work together to help regulate appetite and boost metabolism.
- Find the right dosage: Begin with a low dose of CBD and gradually escalate it until you notice the desired effects on your appetite. Keep in mind that individual responses to CBD may vary.
- Time it right: Experiment with taking CBD at different times of the day to determine when it works best for you in terms of appetite control. Some people may find it most effective to take CBD before meals to reduce hunger.
CBD and Fat Cells
CBD can influence the type and function of fat cells in the body, potentially promoting the browning of fat cells and reducing inflammation. This can have a positive impact on our overall weight management and health.
A 2016 study found that CBD can aid the conversion of white fat cells, which store energy, to brown fat cells which generate heat by burning energy. This process, known as “browning,” can help increase the body’s energy expenditure and facilitate weight loss.
In addition, CBD has potent anti-inflammatory properties that can help reduce inflammation in fat cells, which is a key contributing factor to obesity and related health issues.
FAQ
Is CBD safe for weight management?
CBD is safe and well-tolerated, with few side effects. However, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional if you experience side effects or if you have any pre-existing conditions or are taking medications.
Will CBD get me “high?”
No, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it does not produce the “high” associated with THC, the primary psychoactive compound in cannabis. CBD is derived from hemp, which is required to contain less than 0.3% THC.
How long does it take to notice the effects of CBD on weight management?
The time it takes to notice the effects of CBD on weight management varies from person to person, as individual responses to CBD may differ. It is important to start with a low dose and escalate it until you notice the desired effects. Consistency in your daily CBD intake is crucial, and it may take several weeks to months for some individuals to experience noticeable changes in their weight management and overall health
