Title: Can Marijuana Help You Lose Weight? - Leaf Science
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Content: What About The Munchies? (Photo: Shutterstock)
Although there are a few studies out there proving marijuana to be beneficial towards weight loss, one can’t ignore the infamous “munchies” that often occur after smoking marijuana. The “munchies” refers to an increased appetite and intake of food after smoking marijuana. THC — the cannabinoid that gets you high — is the reason behind the munchies phenomenon. What causes the munchies? In a 2014 study by the University of Bordeaux, it was found that THC activates the CB1 receptors in the brain’s olfactory bulb, which increases the ability to smell food and leads to greater food consumption. The CB1 receptors are part of the body’s endocannabinoid system and are most abundant in the brain and spinal cord. When activated, CB1 receptors can cause many effects including appetite regulation. Scientists have also shown that turning on the CB1 receptors in the brain leads to the release of a hunger hormone known as ghrelin, increasing the user’s appetite.