Cannabis and weight loss might not seem like they belong in the same sentence, but some strains are flipping the script. While the plant is primarily linked to increased appetites, certain cannabis strains continue to show valuable potential for supporting weight loss.
These strains for weight loss are simply varieties of the cannabis sativa plant that contain compounds that may induce weight loss. Some of these compounds, which include cannabinoids and terpenes, interact with the body’s Endocannabinoid System (ECS). It triggers reactions that regulate appetite, support healthy metabolism and energy levels, and play anti-inflammatory roles in the body.
Imagine puffing a strain that contains compounds that may induce weight loss, but can also be taken after workout routines because of its anti-inflammatory effects. Helping to ease pain in the muscles caused by some routines in the gym.
These weight loss support strains contain specific compounds, including cannabinoids like tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), cannabidiol (CBD), and terpenes.
The most prominent compound, tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV), may support weight loss by acting as a CB1 receptor antagonist (or inverse agonist) in the Endocannabinoid system (ECS).
The CB1 receptors, widely distributed throughout the brain and the body, play a vital role in the regulation of appetite, food intake, and energy balance in the body. Activating these receptors signals the brain to crave more food, increasing appetite and often triggering the urge to eat high-calorie snacks, commonly known as the ‘munchies’.
However, the THCV functions by blocking the activity of the CB1 receptor, helping to halt these hunger signals. This action of the THCV may decrease the desire to eat and reduce overall food intake, which makes for weight loss.
Research has also suggested that THCV plays a significant role in improving insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism. These factors are important for weight management and are particularly beneficial to Obesity and type 2 diabetes patients.
The cannabidiol (CBD) compound found in cannabis may also play a significant role in inducing weight loss in the ECS. Although it does not bind with the CB1 receptor directly, unlike THCV. Through inhibition of fatty acid amide hydrolase (FAAH), CBD may support metabolic balance in the body.
CBD may induce weight loss directly by showing some ability to contribute to the ‘browning’ of fat cells. The ‘White Adipose Tissues’ (WAT) are fat cells that store energy and contribute to weight gain. Brown Adipose tissue (BAT) is a metabolically active fat cells that burn calories to produce heat.
CBD may encourage the conversion of these white fat cells into brown fat cells. Increased levels of these brown fat cells may potentially help the body burn more energy, which may lead to weight loss.
CBD also interacts with other receptors involved in metabolism, which may lead to increased fat burning and increased glucose and lipid metabolism.
Apart from THCV and CBD, other aromatic compounds in cannabis, like terpenes, may help with weight loss. These molecules are responsible for the unique scents and flavors of different cannabis strains, and they also possess some therapeutic properties.
Terpenes like limonene and humulene have shown promising potential for weight management support. Humulene, a compound found in various herbs, may support appetite suppression. Researchers also believe it could help promote a feeling of fullness, which may lead to calorie intake reduction. While limonene is not only associated with mood elevation, it may also help reduce appetite and influence metabolism. This may offer beneficial attributes for muscle recovery after exercise.
Among the many cannabis strains, Durban Poison has its origins in the coastal city of Durban, South Africa. This pure sativa strain may support weight loss due to its high levels of THCV.
As a CB1 receptor antagonist, THCV interacts with the body’s Endocannabinoid system by potentially blocking signals that stimulate hunger and increase the desire for food, which may reduce appetite for food or the need to overeat. This heightens its potential for patients who struggle with obesity.
Durban poison also contains terpenes like limonene and humulene. Aside from the rich citrus aroma of limonene that contributes to the strain’s appealing scent, limonene also possesses anti-inflammatory qualities beneficial for post-workout recovery and may function as an appetite suppressant. Humulene works with THCV by suppressing appetite and boosting metabolism, enhancing the strain’s weight management effects.
The legendary Sour Diesel strain, believed to be a powerful cross between Chemdawg 91 and Super Skunk, originated in California in the 1990s. This sativa-dominant strain stands out for its fuel-like aroma, layered with hints of citrus and earth.
Its potential weight loss benefits stem from its rich terpene profile, especially limonene, the dominant terpene in Sour Diesel, which may help curb appetite and support a healthy metabolism. Myrcene, another terpene found in the strain, may reduce inflammation, enhance energy levels, and further support metabolic function.
Doug’s varin stands out because of its high concentrations of THCV. This makes it one of the best cannabis strains for weight loss support. Doug’s Varin can be incorporated into meal plans when there’s a goal to lose some weight.
THCV interacts with the body to support a healthy appetite, which may reduce the desire to eat. Because of its high levels of THCV, it may not induce the ‘munchies’.
The added attributes of potential energy and cognitive support may inspire more physical activity, complementing a perfect weight management routine.
Read Also: Best Marijuana strains for seizures
This indica-dominant hybrid possesses a sweet cookie-like aroma, which is well known for. The strain is a crossbreed of the highly rated Duban Poison and OG Kush. Girl Scout cookies, or GSC, have high levels of THCV due to their Durban Poison lineage.
It contains terpenes like humulene, which may support appetite suppression and possess anti-inflammatory qualities.
However, because of its dominant THC levels, it may override the potential appetite-reducing effects and possibly cause ‘the munchies’. Individuals looking to manage their weight loss journey may need to be mindful of its dominant THC effects.
Team Green Avenger Seeds (TGA Subcool Seeds) developed this sativa-dominant strain by crossing Space Queen’s male version (known as Space Dude) with Jack Cleaner. Its ability to support weight loss sprouts from its cannabinoid contents, like THCV, in the Endocannabinoid system.
Although ‘Jack the Ripper’ contains THC, which stimulates hunger, the presence of THCV may be enough to suppress the ‘munchies’ effect.
Comprising a mixture of the candy mango flavor from Space Queen and the lemon tart flavor from Jack Cleaner, it is highly known for its unique flavor.
The more we study cannabis, the more we find out about its wide range of therapeutic benefits. We’ve seen how THCV, CBD, and terpenes like humulene and limonene found in the cannabis plant play vital roles in the endocannabinoid system by stimulating signals that support weight loss.
However, it’s important to note that these cannabis strains that support weight loss work best when you eat healthy meals and exercise regularly. It is also important to always talk to a doctor before using cannabis for health reasons.
Humulene is the Terpene that may help suppress appetite. It is also believed to promote a feeling of fullness, which could reduce calorie intake, making it useful for individuals aiming to manage their weight and avoid the ‘munchies’.
Possibly, THCV may support weight loss by blocking the activity of CB1 receptors, which may aid in decreasing hunger signals. Additionally, THCV may also enhance energy metabolism and insulin sensitivity, potentially helping the body handle glucose more efficiently. This could contribute to weight loss and overall metabolic strength.
Sativa is more likely to support hunger reduction due to its high THCV content; Indica is mostly associated with increased appetite.
However, some popular sativa strains may induce ‘the munchies’ due to high levels of THC found in them.
Potentially, CBD may play a role in weight loss support. There is some evidence that CBD may help to facilitate the conversion of white fat cells to metabolically active brown fat cells, which helps the body burn more energy, leading to weight loss.
Some edibles to consider for weight loss support are Durban Poison, Girl Scout Cookies, Jack the Ripper, and Doug’s Varin, among many others.
No Information on MarijuanaDoctors.Com should be used to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition. You can view our Full Disclaimer here.
Please allow us to access your location to find local dispensaries.
VIEW ALL DISPENSARIES ➔
