The myth of marijuana use often involves “the munchies,” but a new study finds that marijuana users don’t gain weight. According to a study at Michigan State University, those who smoke cannabis, or marijuana, weigh less compared to adults who don’t.
In a 3-year prospective study, new and persistent users are less likely to be overweight or obese overall compared to individuals who did not smoke marijuana. Researchers used data from the National Epidemiologic Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions and looked at the data of 33,000 participants, ages 18 and older.
Most likely, this is a function of the endocannabinoid system with an activation of the CBD2 receptor, reducing vagal outflow and reducing metabolic inflammation, despite the “munchies” some patients describe. See tomorrow’s post for something even stranger.
Published in the International Journal of Epidemiology
Omayma Alshaarawy, James C Anthony. Are cannabis users less likely to gain weight? Results from a national 3-year prospective study. International Journal of Epidemiology, 2019
