Title: Why Smoking Pot Makes You So Hungry
Headings: Why Smoking Pot Makes You So Hungry
Why Smoking Pot Makes You So Hungry
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Content: The mice given THC also ate more. They also tried the experiment on mice which had been genetically engineered to lack the cannabinoid receptor in question, and the THC had not effect on those mice. Scientists believe that the same process is at play in humans who smoke pot. The specific receptors at play are part of the brain's endocannabinoid system that controls emotions, pain sensitivity, memory, and appetite, although marijuana affects other parts of the brain as well. This new research is similar to a 2005 study that looked at similar receptors in the hypothalmus that also stimulated hunger, and scientists believe that marijuana's effect on dopamine levels might also play a role. Speaking of dopamine, it's important to remember that marijuana has a whole host of effects on the body, many of which scientists are still trying to figure out. The appetite piece hold particular promise when it comes to clinical uses, since marijuana's been proven effective at helping folks like cancer patients get their appetite back during treatment. Scientists are hopeful that this new discovery will lead to more clinical research. If nothing else, it will leave you a little less curious about all those Pringles cans under your couch. [ Motherboard via Nature]
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special_k_side
2/10/14 4:37PM
Once made some wicked pot butter based banana bread for my buddy in palliative care (Liver cancer, wasn't eating) With the doctor/nurses permission, he could eat as much of the bread as he wanted, and spent the last month of his life eating everything that was brought to him.