Is cannabidiol an appetite suppressant that actually works?
CBD, or cannabis oil, has been shown to have a number of therapeutic properties. By now, most people are aware of the compound’s remarkable anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects, in addition to its helpfulness for managing anxiety and insomnia.
But what many people don’t know is that CBD acts as an appetite suppressant, which may help you lose weight.
What Is CBD?
CBD, also called cannabidiol, belongs to a group of compounds called cannabinoids. Cannabinoids are natural, organic compounds found in cannabis and hemp plants. CBD is non-intoxicating and works by stimulating receptors in our endocannabinoid system (ECS). The compound also increases levels of our natural endocannabinoids.
The ECS helps keep many of our vital systems in balance, including helping to regulate our appetite and metabolism.
How CBD Can Help You Lose Weight
CBD can help reduce excess weight using several mechanisms.
CBD may help regulate appetite.
Some research has shown that CBD can help regulate appetite and food intake. It appears that the compound does this by simultaneously inhibiting CB1 receptors while stimulating CB2 receptors.
Several preliminary animal studies concluded that the administration of CBD produced weight loss in rats. A 2012 study found that rats given CBD exhibited a significant decrease in food intake. Another study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Neuroscience Letters, found that injecting CBD into overfed rats halted body weight gain.
CBD May Burn Bad Fat.
White fat is the kind we want to reduce as it is associated with heart conditions and metabolic diseases like diabetes. On the other hand, more brown fat means increased fat-burning capacity and less fat storage.
We can convert white fat to brown through exercise, but recent research shows that CBD may help speed up the process. A 2016 study, published in the peer-reviewed journal Molecular and Cellular Biology, found that CBD enhanced the expression of brown fat-specific marker genes. In other words, CBD helps us convert bad fat into good fat.
CBD Improves Mitochondrial Function
Another way CBD can help us lose weight is by regulating mitochondrial function. Mitochondria are the powerhouses of our cells. They produce energy and store it as adenosine triphosphate (ATP) until it’s needed.
Mitochondria play a critical role in keeping our metabolisms functioning properly. One of the biggest disruptors of mitochondrial function is the oxidation caused by free radicals. Studies have shown that CBD is a potent antioxidant that may have 30–50% more effectiveness than vitamin C.
CBD May Help Stabilize Insulin Levels.
Cannabis, in general, seems to have a stabilizing effect on insulin levels and body weight. The National Nutrition and Health Examination Survey (NHANES) used data derived from over 4,000 patients to conclude that regular cannabis users had smaller waists, a 16% reduction in fasting insulin levels, and insulin resistance levels that were 17% lower than their non-consuming counterparts.
Taking CBD Can Reduce Emotional Overeating.
Another way CBD may help you lose weight is through its mood-lifting properties. A 2021 study from the Journal of Cannabis Research found that cannabis can reduce anxiety and depression, both of which are linked to obesity and unhealthy eating habits.
As a result, those who suffer from chronic stress and anxiety may experience relief from their symptoms and an improvement in mood — which can also lead to healthier eating habits.
CBD improves athletic performance.
CBD may help improve athletic performance by reducing post-workout body aches and speeding up recovery times. A 2012 study found that cannabinoids like CBD target alpha3 glycine receptors, resulting in a marked reduction in neuropathic and inflammatory pain.
A 2016 animal study conducted on arthritic rats concluded that transdermal CBD reduces inflammation and pain-related behaviors. Since then, many prominent athletes have turned to CBD for enhanced performance. If chronic pain keeps you from exercising regularly, you may want to ask your doctor about CBD.
CBD can help us sleep better.
CBD’s anti-anxiety and mood-enhancing effects may help you get better sleep. Both physicians and fitness experts attest that getting adequate rest is crucial for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Experts at the Sleep Foundation found a direct correlation between weight loss and sleep.
How to Use CBD for Weight Loss
CBD is a natural appetite suppressant. And while it’s not a miracle drug, research shows that CBD can help to reduce hunger and cravings by manipulating the endocannabinoid system in your brain.
In a study published in the Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology, researchers found that CBD significantly increased levels of the appetite-suppressing hormone leptin in rats. Separate studies have shown that CBD increases levels of satiety hormones as well as serotonin, which may also help with weight loss because it lowers your desire for food.
In addition to helping you control your appetite, CBD offers many other health benefits. CBD has potential for treating insomnia, physical pain, mood disorders, and much more.
Conclusion
There are multiple ways to use CBD, but it seems to work best when used in combination with your diet and exercise regimen. For best results, start with low doses of CBD and increase the amount gradually until you find the right dose for you.
Please keep in mind that I am not a doctor, and this article is meant for educational purposes only. Consult with your trusted physician before adding CBD to your routine or beginning any weight loss program.
Written by Cat Winske
