The munchies are accepted as an inevitable byproduct of cannabis consumption to many. For decades, people who consume cannabis for both recreational and medical purposes have wondered why that’s exactly the case.
Due to more research being conducted on cannabis because of the advent of medical marijuana, finding out the facts behind why medical marijuana causes the munchies has become much easier for scientists. A few reasons why medical marijuana causes the munchies in patients include:
Medical Marijuana Activates the CB1 Receptors Present Within Body Tissue
One of the reasons why medical marijuana is so effective in relieving pain is also a reason why it can cause the munchies. When patients use medical marijuana for conditions like chronic pain relief, THC latching onto the CB1 receptors is key in patients experiencing the relief they desire.
While the cannabinoid is latched onto the CB1 receptor, the appetite becomes stimulated due to the fact that it activates a group of neurons called proopiomelanocortin neurons. Those neurons can be instrumental in boosting appetite or decreasing appetite based on which pathway is being stimulated. The secondary pathway is responsible for increasing appetite, and recent research displayed evidence that THC has the capability of stimulating it without affecting the primary pathway.
Medical Marijuana Can Produce Hunger-Causing Hormones
Medical marijuana also stimulates appetites by facilitating the release of a hormone called ghrelin. Typically only released by the stomach once it’s empty, in order to alert the brain that it’s time to get something to eat. Recent experiments have shown that the consumption of marijuana can cause a higher than usual release of the hormone which provides more credence to the mystery behind why medical marijuana can make people feel so hungry.
In fact, some research states that cannabinoids including THC serve as the biggest influence on the release of ghrelin.
Medical Marijuana Can Heighten Senses Like Smell and Taste
Most people who are curious about medical marijuana probably have had someone explain to them about how it just makes things better. There’s at least a scientific explanation behind why medical marijuana makes food seem to taste and smell better. The reason is because THC interacts with the brain’s olfactory bulbs which lead to an increased sense of taste and smell which can lead to a more active appetite.
Another reason why marijuana can help make food (particularly junk food) tastier is because THC has the capability of enhancing the taste of sucrose once it's attached to the CB1 receptors. Even though medical marijuana can make unhealthy food more appealing, staying away from unhealthy foods while using medical marijuana is still possible.
Medical Marijuana Use While Maintaining a Healthy Diet is Easier Than You Think
It’s not uncommon for medical marijuana use to conjure up images of the couch locked stoner who eats a never-ending smorgasbord of junk food. Taking that into consideration, it’s worth noting that by and large, people who use cannabis on a regular basis gain weight at a slower rate than people who don’t.
It’s also worth noting that there are numerous options for healthy snacks to manage your diet while using medical marijuana to satisfy the munchies. Ohio medical marijuana patients also have access to CBD products that don’t produce an intoxicating “high” that leads to the munchies at dispensaries located throughout the state. In order to access them, Ohioans should apply to receive their medical marijuana cards.
For Some, Munchies Can be a Good Thing
Even though the munchies aren't a side-effect that many medical marijuana patients are eager to experience, there are some Ohioans who can benefit from medical marijuana’s ability to stimulate the appetite. Conditions where patients may need assistance stimulating their appetite include HIV and AIDS.
Medical marijuana can also be effective in stimulating the appetites of patients who are in the process of undergoing chemotherapy for cancer. It does so by making it easier for patients dealing with symptoms of nausea to eat.
Look for Products Containing THCV to Reduce or Eliminate Munchies
THCV is similar to THC, but provides effects that offset the characteristics of normal THC. Strains that are high in THCV are known for reducing appetite and potentially playing a role in stimulating bone health and regulating blood sugar levels. A few strains that are high in THCV include Jack the Ripper, Durban Poison and Pineapple Purps.
Obtain Your Ohio Medical Marijuana Card So You Can Begin Experiencing the Relief Cannabis Can Provide Today
Concerns about managing the munchies are fairly common, but they don’t have to stop you from experiencing the relief medical marijuana can provide. If you’re living with a condition that entails dealing with constant pain or discomfort, there’s no need to rely on over-the-counter drugs that provide mixed results.
There are knowledgeable and friendly patient support experts with Ohio Marijuana Card who can answer any questions you have about medical marijuana by calling (866)457-5559. They could be instrumental in helping you construct a course of action that consists of making an appointment with a licensed medical marijuana physician that can approve you for a medical marijuana card that allows you to access the multitude of cannabis products that are capable of improving your quality of life.
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
Here at Ohio Marijuana Card, our goal is to help everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
If you have any questions, call us at (866) 457-5559, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
Check out Ohio Marijuana Card’s Blog to keep up to date on the latest medical marijuana news, tips, and information. Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to join the medical marijuana conversation in Ohio.
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