Fascinating Link Between Marijuana and Food Cravings

If you smoke or eat marijuana, you might have encountered the “marijuana munchies,” or the desire for salty, sweet or fatty carbohydrate-rich foods when using the drug (source). But what exactly are those cannabis-related cravings all about? Why do they happen?

The Role of THC in Food Cravings

Well, you can blame them on the drug’s active ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC. THC is responsible for the “high” many people experience when using cannabis. But it’s also primarily responsible for the increase in food cravings people get when taking the drug (source).

The brain is divided into regions, and when THC enters the areas that affect mood, it stimulates euphoria. Additionally, when THC reaches the region that influences appetite, it stimulates hunger (source). This stimulation can lead to an increased desire for food.

The Complex Mechanisms at Play

While the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, research has shown that THC stimulates the endocannabinoid system in the brain, which regulates feeding behavior and energy balance. This stimulates appetite-related pathways and influences our desire to eat (source). THC also interacts with receptors that regulate emotions, pain, smell, and taste, further contributing to increased hunger (source).

Furthermore, THC can enhance our sensitivity to smell, making aromas from food more potent and causing us to eat more. Neurons that typically control satiety also stimulate increased eating when marijuana is used (source). Increased dopamine release from THC enhances the pleasure of eating and can lower inhibitions, leading to the consumption of unhealthy foods (source).

Weight and Appetite

Individuals who carry extra pounds may have a more significant response to the increased dopamine release caused by THC, resulting in larger appetite responses, known as the munchies (source). People have reported relying on marijuana to boost appetite in cases of illness or chronic pain, as it can stimulate hunger and improve eating habits (source).

The Importance of Cannabis in Appetite Regulation

Ultimately, the role of marijuana in appetite control is crucial for our survival. The brain’s main tasks are to ensure the survival of its owner and procreation, both of which require eating. THC’s interaction with the brain’s endocannabinoid system helps regulate food intake and ensure we consume enough to stay alive (source).

Managing the Munchies

For those concerned about weight gain when using cannabis, nutritionists recommend keeping healthy snacks available. Satisfying the munchies with options like popcorn, veggie sticks with hummus, whole-grain crackers with a low-fat dip, or tortilla chips with salsa can help control sugar and calorie intake (source). With the right choices, it’s possible to enjoy the benefits of marijuana without compromising a healthy eating routine.