Are you looking to shed some unwanted pounds this year? You’re not alone. Research shows that half of Americans are actively trying to lose weight.
Slimming down can be challenging. Not to mention, all the conflicting advice can make it even harder to discern what you should and shouldn’t do.
Most of us know that a proper diet and regular exercise are essential for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. But have you considered the benefits of CBD for weight loss? Is it a scam – or can it be a total game changer?
Let’s get into what you need to know!
Table of Contents
How Does CBD Work for Weight Loss?
First of all, it’s essential to understand what CBD is and what it isn’t. Unlike marijuana, CBD is not psychoactive. Since there is no THC (or very small, negligible amounts), you won’t get high from using it.
When most people think about marijuana, they think about the stereotypical ‘stoner’ munchies. These munchies can be one of the side effects associated with THC.
Understanding CBD
CBD is a non-psychoactive component in the marijuana plant. It derives from cannabidiol, which is one of the most potent cannabinoids out there.
People have used it for years to help with a variety of medical ailments including:
- epilepsy
- smoking cessation
- chronic pain management
- anxiety
- depression
- cancer-related symptoms and relief
- acne and skin problems
- improved cardiovascular health
- diabetes prevention
- Neurological disorders
- Alzheimer’s disease and dementia
Unlike THC, there are little or no adverse reactions associated with CBD. Because it doesn’t intoxicate the user, there is limited concern about its safety. Furthermore, it does not impair one’s judgment.
It should be noted that CBD oil is not marketed as a weight loss tool in itself. However, it has numerous properties that may boost fat loss.
Is CBD Oil an Appetite Suppressant?
CBD works on the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which regulates basic functions like mood, energy, sleep, and appetite.
CB1 and CB2, the primary cannabinoid receptors, help preserve the body’s homeostasis. In other words, they keep your body in its natural balance.
What does that mean in terms of appetite? CBD can stimulate appetite in people who desperately need to eat (such as long-term cancer patients receiving chemotherapy). However, it can also suppress hunger in those who may need to lose weight.
In general, if you need to eat, CBD helps stimulate your appetite. However, if you need to eat less, CBD can act as a natural suppressant. That’s a win-win!
CBD as a Metabolism Booster
Chances are, you’ve heard of the term fast metabolism. After all, it’s what everyone seemingly wants!
Your metabolism involves the chemical reactions that maintain your cells and support energy production. It’s associated with nutrition and the breakdown of nutrients.
Most of us assume that we’re born with a ‘fast’ or ‘slow’ metabolism. However, research continues to show that we may have the ability to change our metabolic rate. This seems to be the case with CBD.
A 2016 study found CBD has three profound ways of impacting fat browning. What does this mean?
Most experts associate white fat tissues with diabetes, heart disease, insulin resistance, and other ailments. Brown fat, on the other hand, can accelerate weight loss by burning energy (aka increasing your metabolism).
These findings suggest that CBD may have the impressive ability to promote ‘fat browning,’ which refers to transforming problematic white fat into brown fat.
As mentioned, the ECS helps CBD interact with our body. However, research shows that the ECS connects with several metabolic functions like insulin response. This means that CBD can help metabolize the compounds absorbed from digested food.
When used regularly, CBD can boost your metabolic rate and help your body to use calories more effectively. At the same time, it may improve glycemic control and insulin sensitivity. These factors combined make it easier to lose weight and keep it off.
How to Use CBD for Weight Loss
Just like any other medication, CBD impacts each person differently. You need to take that into consideration before you start using this compound.
While five milligrams may have dramatic results on one individual, another may need 30 milligrams even to begin to notice its beneficial effects.
Like medication, you should start small. In other words, take the minimum effective dosage to see how it works. Maintain a small dose for several days and increase if necessary.
Remember that CBD is not a miracle cure. No pill or formula can help you slim down overnight. But when used in conjunction with healthy fitness and eating habits, it can be an incredibly helpful tool.
Are There CBD Scams?
Yes, just like with any booming industry, there can certainly be scams. Pure CBD oil is produced from industrial hemp via C02 extraction. However, some manufacturers mix pure oil with low-grade oil via ethanol among other unknown ingredients.
The premise here is simple. If you don’t know the ingredients (or don’t understand them), steer away from that brand. Any sensible business is happy to disclose the ingredients used.
Some companies may sell their products at a price that sounds too good to be true. However, they are also likely to oversell their claims. Nothing is a miracle pill, and you should be aware of that.
There are a few considerations to be aware of when purchasing CBD oil. Ethical companies:
- may offer money-back guarantees
- don’t provide free or trial products (because they stand behind their claims)
- stay fair in market value (are not the cheapest)
- avoid making incredible health claims
View here to learn more about what to look for when selecting your CBD oil.
What about Marijuana for Weight Loss?
We’ve already talked about the infamous munchies associated with marijuana use. We’ve also talked about the many benefits associated with CBD oil for weight loss.
However, what if you still want to enjoy a smoke and lose weight at the same time? Is it possible?
Yes, it is! You just need preparation and a willingness to hold yourself accountable.
For example, many people swear by preparing meals and snacks ahead of time. If the munchies tend to overtake your willpower, consider swapping them for healthier options.
What about snacking on baby carrots or fresh raspberries instead of tucking into chips or cookies? What about prepping yourself with delicious, flavored water instead of high-calorie soda?
Finally, consider other activites beyond eating. What about board games? Watching your favorite show in bed – far away from the fridge?
Using CBD Safely
CBD usage is a relatively new phenomenon in America. Although we’re seeing many health benefits, the research is continuing to develop.
That said, you should consider taking a few precautionary measures before using CBD.
Consult Your Doctor
You should always touch base with your physician regarding any supplements or drugs. This includes CBD.
Don’t be afraid to tell him or her about your intention to use cannabidiol – they need to know to make sure that it’s safe!
Drug Interactions
CBD can impact the effectiveness of some medications. It can either increase or reduce their potency, especially when taken in higher doses.
Some research shows that high concentrated CBD can interfere with the liver enzyme system. This system metabolizes many prescribed medications like antidepressants and blood thinners.
If THC is present in the CBD, there could be interaction problems associated with learning and memory loss. Always search for products that only contain CBD rather than the generic label “cannabinoids.”
Pregnancy and Nursing
There is very little evidence about the effects of CBD on pregnant or nursing mothers. However, we do know that cannabinoids can be passed from pregnant mothers to their fetuses.
The general rule of thumb is to avoid any CBD products when pregnant. Consult your physician to discuss your options.
Complement, Don’t Substitute
CBD tends to be most effective when used as an adjunct therapy. For weight loss, that means still adhering to all the golden rules like:
- drinking plenty of water
- eating a balanced, low-calorie diet
- limiting processed foods
- engaging in cardiovascular exercise
- engaging in strength training
- maintaining a healthy sleep schedule
- managing stress
If you’re taking other medications for weight loss, don’t stop them abruptly. You should always discuss any changes with your doctor.
Final Thoughts
Taking CBD for weight loss can be invaluable in your quest for better health and well-being. However, you still need to tweak your lifestyle habits and make healthy choices on a daily basis. This includes prioritizing clean eating, staying active, and getting plenty of rest.
Want to learn more about losing those stubborn pounds? Check out our guide for some helpful tips!
