Can Cannabis Be The Secret To A Slimmer Waist?

Can Cannabis Be The Secret To A Slimmer Waist?

It’s summer and everyone has their minds on the beach and that perfect summer body. Fad diets are always in trend but what if there was a healthier and more natural way to lose those extra pounds? I think we can all agree that cannabis is a better option than participating in a juice cleanse or cutting out all carbs.

Wait, Doesn’t Cannabis Give You the Munchies?

Cannabis is full of our favourite psychoactive compound, THC, which does trigger hunger. It’s used as an appetite stimulant in a lot of cases and is known to cause what we call the “munchies”, that insatiable need for snacks after sharing a joint. Even though this leads to higher calorie intake it also leads to a lower BMI (body mass index). In 2011 there were two studies done where researchers concluded that rates of obesity were higher in people that did not smoke cannabis at least a few times a week.

How Does That Work?

There are a couple of reasons why people that regularly partake in the enjoyment of cannabis may have lower BMI’s. One reason that is specific to North America is the excessive intake of the fatty acids that are in things like butter and vegetable oil. This love of indulgent snacks causes the body to store more fat which leads to inflammation. This is where cannabis comes in and saves the day with its powerful, natural ability to lower inflammation throughout the body. This is known to help combat aches and pains but also reduces the chances of putting on some extra pounds. On top of this THC improves the biomes that live in every person’s stomach. They conducted a study at the University of Calgary that shows how this works in mice. Researches gave obese rodents, who were on a high-calorie diet, THC. This addition to their diets normalized their gut bacteria levels and they stopped gaining weight.

You Still Have To Eat Healthy Food

Cannabis isn’t a miracle cure-all. If your expectation is to stay slim while binge-watching a Netflix series with a bag of chips you won’t have much success. If you are smoking marijuana to relax at the end of the day or to pass the time away then try to surround yourself with healthier snacks. Try not to reach for that coveted tub of ice cream but instead make sure you have something easy to eat that your body will benefit from. My go-to snacks are tortilla chips and salsa, popcorn, or veggies and hummus. They curb the cravings and are so satisfying you almost feel guilty.

The best way to harness the full effects of this green medicine is to incorporate an uplifting sativa strain into a health and wellness routine. This boost of mindfulness and energy will lead to more focused, intense workouts. Healthy looks different on everyone and lifestyle will have a huge impact on the goals vs. the outcome.

Strains That Curb The Munchies

A strain with a higher level of CBD to THC will help lower the chances of ordering a whole large pizza to eat to yourself (not speaking from experience…). Another cannabinoid that diminishes some of the strong effects of THC is THCv.

It works by lessening some of the feel-good sensations that come with eating your favourite comfort foods.

This can help cancel out some of the appetite-stimulating effects of THC

Lemon Jack: This uplifting strain is energizing and perfect for daytime use. It’s a cross between Jack Herer and Lemon Kush with a strong zesty scent. It’s described as feeling like a big cup of coffee and can help you get on with your day and get active to burn off those extra pounds.

Durban Poison: Durban is known as one of the most pure-feeling, classic strains you can find. Smoking this green flower during the day will lead to a noticeable lift in mood, creativity, and sociability. It is high in that special cannabinoid THCv which combats hunger while having an extremely long list of medicinal benefits. Smoking Durban Poison can provide you with energy and relief from migraines while supplying a delicious lemon, herb flavour.

God’s Green Crack: A nearly perfect hybrid strain (55% Indica/45% Sativa) manages to keep you uplifted and calm. This strain is also high in THCv which helps to cancel out the THC’s effect on your appetite.

Most strains in the Sativa category have some THCV in them. The uplifting high that we all love about Sativas could be partly due to this compound. You don’t have to go looking for exotic strains to find some of this strange cannabinoid—so don’t let us stop you.

A Reduction In Anxiety Helps

One thing that cannabis does best is, reduce anxiety. Many people turn to this natural medication to fight their overwhelming feelings of stress and the calm marijuana supplies can stop the need to stress eat. Many times getting hazy helps with weight loss simply because of its ability to reduce stress levels.

Top Tips For Munchies and Weight Loss

As we all now know the best strains to choose to help with your health goals are going to be the ones with high levels of THCv. If it isn’t possible and you end up with those green flowers that lead to the munchies then don’t lose hope! I have some tips that will help you take advantage of your larger appetite.

1. Stick to healthier snacks!

2. Eat slowly so that you enjoy your snack more and avoid overeating.

3.Prepare everything in advance so that you aren’t drawn to easier, less healthy options.

4. Stay active and keep that body moving.

Is It Legal?

This is dependant on where you live. I have the good fortune of living in Canada where cannabis is legal country-wide but if you live elsewhere make sure to check the laws for your area. CBD is legal almost everywhere so that is always an incredible go-to option. If you are feeling overwhelmed with anxiety and feel like this may be the leading reason for your weight gain talk to your doctor about getting a medical marijuana prescription.