The cannabinoids CBD and THC have an influence on metabolism when you consume them together and this can be easily noticed when you consume THC rich marijuana products. It results in increased appetite, commonly called munchies. However, cannabidiol (CBD) does not lead to munchies, but studies have found that it has an effect on metabolism.
CBD is consumed in the form of health and wellness products for reducing the symptoms of various illnesses. The purpose of this primer is to give you a better understanding of the influence of CBD on metabolism.
Cannabidiol And Its Effects
CBD benefits are due to its effect on the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is a network of chemical messengers and neurotransmitters spread throughout the body. The ECS regulates homeostatic functions like appetite, core body temperature, metabolism, mood, etc. This is achieved when CBD interacts with CB2 receptors of the ECS. Moreover, due to CBD’s influence on the ECS, it also affects the endocrine system, the network of glands that secrete hormones that control organs, organ systems, as well as metabolism.
Metabolism And CBD
Scientific studies have shown that cannabidiol (CBD) affects metabolism and this is the reason for its effect of reducing weight. According to research, it affects the conversion of immature fat cells or pre-adipocytes into brown fat cells. Fat is stored in the body in the form of white fat cells and a higher percentage of it causes obesity. Brown fat cells are used to generate heat when you are cold, they contain a higher number of mitochondria that generate energy in cells. Moreover, the conversion of white fat cells into brown fat cells requires calorie burning.
CBD benefits of increasing metabolism and reducing weight are due to cannabidiol’s influence on the proteins and genes that are responsible for the fat breakdown in the body. Besides, it increases the activity of mitochondria and this results in an increase in metabolic rate. As a result, the body burns down more calories causing a reduction in weight as well. Apart from this, it also reduces the activity of a protein that is involved in the creation of white fat cells. In short, consuming CBD promotes the browning of fat cells which results in weight loss.
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) And Metabolism
The ECS is involved in the transportation of nutrients, storing of energy and also has an influence on insulin sensitivity due to which it has an effect on metabolism. Cannabidiol (CBD) through the interaction with ECS influences the serotonin levels in the brain, which indirectly has an influence on nutrient absorption and breakdown in the GI tract.
