Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is coming into its own. Indeed, it’s becoming wildly popular for supporting many aspects of well-being. But can CBD help you shed excess weight?
We can't answer a firm "yes" or "no" as the evidence is just emerging. But a slimming effect is quite possible. Read on about how CBD impacts our body's treatment of fat—and decide for yourself.
A Great Balancer: CBD and the Body's Response
Our bodies’ natural cannabinoid receptors respond to CBD. Two key receptors, CB1 and CB2, play an important role in preserving homeostasis. This means they help regulate the intricate, interwoven functions that keep our body's systems in balance.
CBD is a great balancer. That’s why the use of cannabinoids can stimulate hunger in people undergoing chemotherapy—even while CBD use reduces appetite for people who have extra weight to shed.
And while marijuana might give you the munchies, pure CBD is not psychoactive and won't make you suddenly ravenous. In fact, reducing anxiety through CBD can decrease nervous eating, according to Rachna Patel, MD.
CBD has subtle, safe pain-relief effects, too. Less pain usually means more physical activity. That also helps regulate weight—naturally.
Quick Guide: How to Use CBD Oil for Weight Loss
So, you should use how much CBD oil for weight loss?
First, no amount is enough unless you select high-quality, pure CBD oil, preferably extracted with CO2, and tested by a third-party laboratory.
Now that you have found a quality oil, here's how to use it.
- First-timers might begin with 2.5 milligrams of CBD a day.
- Next week, increase your dosage to 5 milligrams.
- Work up to 10-20 milligrams a day—find your "sweet spot" where you sense subtle changes.
- Take your time. Effects can take up to a month to feel, as your internal receptors become conditioned to the CBD.
CBD Metabolism Research: Not a Bad Start
Can CBD work with your endocannabinoid system to lower the likelihood of a metabolic syndrome or diabetes? CBD potentially reduces the risk of metabolic disorders and regulates insulin levels. The Journal of Neuroendocrinology published findings that our internal cannabinoid receptors support metabolism through the gastrointestinal tract, the muscles, and other tissues. Not a bad start for the emerging science.
What about claims that it actually burns fat, or turns bad fat into good fat? It's not just an urban legend. A 2016 study did find CBD changing the body's interactions with fat, helping to convert white fat cells into more active brown fat cells, encouraging fat breakdown. Following that research, a 2018 study in the journal Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry showed that brown fat cells burn energy, using up calories—a key element of obesity reversal.
Risks and Considerations
CBD is not an FDA-approved weight loss supplement. Result aren’t guaranteed, meaning your results may differ from someone else’s.
The good part is that you can try it for yourself, because CBD is safe to use.
We hope our information empowers you to speak knowledgeably with your healthcare professional, and to learn whether CBD may play a supportive role in your beneficial lifestyle changes.
