CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is a cannabis compound becoming increasingly popular for its various health benefits. From reducing pain, stress, and anxiety to promoting a healthy heart and brain, CBD is being researched extensively.

However, when it comes to weight loss, there is not much research to go by. Since people are looking at CBD for everyday wellness, it was only a matter of time before they started wondering whether CBD can help with weight loss.

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CBD and losing weight: an indirect connection

What the CBD1 and CBD2 receptors does in the body — *The Endocannabinoid System was first discovered in 1992. It controls the most important organs and functions in humans and animals, such as metabolism and sleep.*

CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike its crazy cousin THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD will not get you high or alter your mind.

As a result, researchers and authorities in Thailand have been quick to legalise its use and make it available to the general public.

CBD interacts with your body via the endocannabinoid system. The system’s receptors – CB1 and CB2 – are present throughout the body, including the brain, immune system, muscles, bones, etc. CBD targets these receptors to produce different effects that vary across suppressing inflammation, improving mood, reducing anxiety and pain, among others.

However, there are no such direct links in the context of weight loss. What we do know is:

CBD may alter serotonin levels and help promote weight loss

CBD to decrease anxiety is one of the most well-known uses of the compound. There is growing research that states that CBD can directly activate the serotonin receptor in the brain and produce the anti-anxiety effect. As a result, the impact of the serotonin is increased.

Now, it is worth noting that serotonin is crucial for weight loss. It is nature’s appetite suppressant, and this powerful chemical can dictate your food cravings. High serotonin levels cause a loss of appetite, while low serotonin levels (associated with anxiety and depression) can increase appetite.

Hence, a chain reaction can be seen here, which starts with taking CBD to tweak serotonin levels which, in turn, triggers the change in appetite.

Moreover, the shift to a positive mood can motivate you to work out and follow through with your diet plans.

Boost metabolism, reduce appetite

Some research also dictates that taking CBD can boost your metabolism and subsequently reduce your appetite.

Unlike THC, which increases food cravings, a.k.a munchies, CBD is not the case. Cannabidiol targets the CB1 and CB2 receptors differently than THC and triggers responses that reduce the food intake.

As a result, it is currently being studied to treat obesity.

Fat browning

There are two types of fat that exist in our bodies: white and brown.

White fat is considered unhealthy, often linked with chronic conditions like diabetes and heart diseases. It is the fat responsible for storing and supplying energy and insulating your organs.

Brown fat is the healthy fat, which is primarily there to generate heat by burning calories. Healthy individuals have more brown fat than white fat.

A 2016 study showed that CBD could help convert this white fat into brown fat and trigger the body to break down the fats more efficiently.

In addition to this, CBD can also reduce the risk of obesity-related disorders like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol.

Improved sleep

Sleep is crucial when it comes to losing weight – there is overwhelming research to support this claim. A lack of sleep will translate into increased appetite, loss of motivation, and poor metabolism.

Since CBD is a popular sleep remedy, taking it regularly can help you get a proper, restful snooze and prime you well to achieve your fitness goals.

How CBD can help your weight loss journey

At this point, it is safe to say that CBD is not a weight-loss supplement. There is not a lot of research to back this claim, although its indirect links with several processes in our bodies can ultimately help you reach your weight goals.

For example, a good mood will motivate you to hit the gym more regularly than a depressed state of mind. The same holds good for proper sleep and no pain too.

To be honest, there is no substitute for a good diet and exercise. These are the things that will help you lose weight – you should look at CBD as a partner to help you in your journey.

It is there to keep you on track and ensure everything is going well with you to continue to work on your health goals.

As for taking CBD, there are many ways to do so:

Cannabidiol oil
Gummies and edibles
CBD tea

For best results, we recommend going with tinctures like CBD oil. It is easily absorbed and has a powerful concentration for maximum effects. As for the dosage, you can check out this article here.

The bottom line is just taking CBD will not help you lose weight. You will need to put in the effort and follow a proper diet – CBD is more like your girlfriend/boyfriend that will help you stay motivated and follow the course.