It’s no myth that consuming cannabis stimulates the appetite. However, not all the cannabinoids present in this plant have the same effect. While THC tends to induce cravings, CBD (cannabidiol) and CBG (cannabigerol) act more as appetite regulators. Let’s take a closer look at the effects of these molecules.
How does it work in practice?
To function, our bodies need energy, i.e. calories. Once this fuel has been ingested, the body sends us signals to let us know that it is full and that digestion can begin. This well-oiled mechanism kicks in as soon as we eat, sending a multitude of chemical messages to our body (serotonin, neurotensin, glucagon and cholecystokine…) activating the satiety center located in the brain (ventromedial hypothalamus.) THC, which acts on cannabinoid receptors in the hypothalamus, inhibits satiety messages and instead excites the receptors responsible for feelings of hunger and thirst. Hence the compulsive need to eat and hydrate after smoking cannabis. Cravings – in other words, the sudden urge to swallow food, preferably fatty, sweet or salty, and to drink in quantity – are legion among stoners. Who hasn’t experienced that irrepressible urge to empty the fridge after a good joint?
CBG, or Cannabigerol, is a molecule present in Cannabis in very small quantities (less than 1%), and is the source of CBD. It is said to have the same properties as THC, but without the psychoactive effect. In 2016, British researchers studied its effects on rat appetite. They discovered that rodents ate much more under the effect of CBG, without experiencing the drawbacks of THC: drowsiness, highs. Interesting, then, for people with poor appetites, or even eating disorders.
What about CBD?
While THC and CBG stimulate our taste buds, CBD is said to play a completely different role. Cannabidiol acts on our organism’s homeostasis, in other words, it plays a part in our body’s self-regulation. It interacts above all with our immune system, preferring the CB2 receptors which manage sensations of pain, craving and stress. Its relaxing and analgesic virtues act as a natural calming agent on our body’s various alerts. Hunger is no exception. By increasing levels of serotonin and amandanides, the happy hormones, CBD helps us feel calmer and fuller. Cannabinoids also have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, helping to regulate blood sugar levels.
Let’s not forget that a healthy, balanced diet is the first step towards well-being.
