Does CBD make you lose weight?
I would like to be thinner! I wish I could lose weight! If only I had a few pounds less...
These are phrases that we hear very often, especially during the summer months. However, it is not always a question of vanity: overweight and obesity are real social problems that have numerous health impacts. As it can be difficult to achieve the slimming goals we set ourselves, "miracle solutions" that promise effortless weight loss are proliferating on the net. The latest one: CBD as a slimming ally. Fact or fiction? To find out, let's take a look at the latest scientific studies!
How does CBD interact with the body?
CBD has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly due to the therapeutic properties that scientists attribute to it. Among its main effects are its painkilling, anti-stress and anti-inflammatory properties. But what is this substance?
What is CBD?
The cannabis plant contains more than 80 components, called cannabinoids, of which the best known are cannabidiol (CBD) and tetrahydrocannabinol(THC). Unlike THC, CBD does not cause any psychotropic effect and is therefore used for therapeutic purposes. Indeed, the latest scientific studies tend to prove the benefits of cannabidiol on pain - recurrent or occasional -, epilepsy or anxiety and stress.
The endocannabinoid system
CBD is a molecule that occurs naturally in the human body. It interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates physical sensations, such as hunger and pain, but also the way the body spends energy.
The endocannabinoid system is made up of different neuroreceptors that have an impact on pain sensations, mood and appetite. Among these neuroreceptors are CB1 and CB2. They are the target of several scientific studies that seem to show a real correlation between these neuroreceptors and obesity. But how?
The CB1 receptor is naturally - and almost exclusively - present in the brain and nervous system. It is not usually found in the rest of the body. However, research conducted by Professor Francesca Rossi seems to show a proliferation of CB1 receptors in the bodies of obese people. An important finding in the fight against obesity. CBD would play a role in all this, as it would contribute to blocking CB1 receptors and reducing appetite.
As for the CB2 neuroreceptor, it is found naturally throughout the body. It regulates moods, food intake, and also has anti-inflammatory properties. Its interaction with CBD stimulates the transformation of fat into energy.
CBD and weight loss
As mentioned earlier, obesity and overweight are social phenomena that seem to affect a growing proportion of the population. This phenomenon is problematic; indeed, being overweight tends to favour the development of chronic diseases, such as diabetes or cardiovascular diseases. It is therefore important to remember that a balanced diet and daily exercise are two essential elements in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Cannabidiol will never replace a healthy lifestyle. However, the scientific community has noted that CBD consumption can promote weight loss.
Reduction of appetite
Cannabis has long been regarded as a substance that increases hunger. Some THC-based drugs were developed to help cancer patients regain their appetite and gain weight.
However, this process does not apply to CBD. As mentioned above, cannabidiol helps to stimulate the CB1 neuroreceptors, and thus promotes a loss of appetite. Reduced hunger leads to less food consumption, so calorie intake is naturally reduced.
Impacts on overweight-related diseases
According to research by Professors Hilal Ahmad Parray and Jong Won Yun, CBD helps to transform bad (white) fat into good (brown) fat. Since brown fats are more easily converted into energy than their white counterparts, such a change facilitates weight loss.
In addition, too much white fat is bad for your health and will, for example, lead to problems such as high cholesterol or the development of type 2 diabetes.
Another phenomenon to note is that the interaction of CBD with CB2 neuroreceptors will have an anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effect, which will reduce blood sugar levels.
The question remains as to how much CBD will be most effective in weight loss: Some studies show the importance of an appropriate dose of cannabidiol for optimal effectiveness. However, they all agree that CBD sensitivity and effects vary from person to person, so there is no universal dosage. However, some general principles remain applicable. We detail them in our article " CBD oil for which dosage?
We've learned a little more about the link between CBD and weight regulation. However, we mustn't forget that scientific research into the effects of CBD on the body is still in its infancy. That said, thanks to the growing popularity of this substance, we can certainly expect an upsurge in this type of study. And we're delighted!