With rates of eating disorders increasing, it’s no surprise that people are turning to cannabis as a treatment option. Research has shown cannabinoids, a plant-derived chemical in cannabis interacts with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Cannabinoids can be helpful for treating symptoms of some mental health conditions. Let’s take a look at how cannabis helps with eating disorders.
What is an eating disorder?
Eating disorders are a group of mental health conditions characterized by a disturbed relationship with food and a desire to control one’s body image. Individuals with an eating disorder may exercise extreme control over their diet or exercise, purging food from their body or vomiting it back up. Some may even starve themselves or engage in excessive exercise. Individuals with eating disorders have an intense fear of gaining weight, or in some cases a fear of becoming overweight. Eating disorders can affect anyone, regardless of their age, gender, race, or socioeconomic status. Unfortunately, there’s no cure for an eating disorder. However, effective treatments may help individuals with eating disorders cope with symptoms and lead a healthy, productive life.
What is cannabis?
Cannabis is a plant that contains a range of chemical compounds called cannabinoids. The two main cannabinoids in cannabis are THC and CBD. CBD is the cannabinoid that has shown the most potential for eating disorders. It has been shown to reduce anxiety, improve mood and improve sleep, all of which are common symptoms of eating disorders. THC, the compound that generates the “high”, has been shown to have some potential as a treatment for eating disorders, especially restrictive eating disorders.
Why does cannabis help eating disorders?
Research suggests that cannabinoids, including THC and CBD promotes homeostasis. What this means is that cannabinoids promote a state of balance in the body by regulating the endocannabinoid system (ECS) as well as various neurotransmitters. This chemical system is responsible for regulating our emotions, memory, sleep, immune system, and more, and when imbalanced (commonly caused by stress and a high carbohydrate diet) it can have a negative impact on mental health. Cannabinoids can reduce stress and anxiety, which may explain why they’re so helpful for treating eating disorders. They can also increase feelings of relaxation, reduce feelings of worry, and promote sleep. Working together with brain chemicals and receptors, cannabinoids can make you feel less anxious, less stressed, and more relaxed. These effects can help restore a sense of balance and normalcy in individuals with eating disorders.
Medical benefits of using cannabis for eating disorders
Cannabinoids may have powerful effects on metabolism, causing the body to burn calories more efficiently and increase feelings of hunger. This could be beneficial for some individuals with eating disorders who often experience significant stress and anxiety about their body image, weight, and shape. Other medical benefits of using cannabis for eating disorders include:
- Promoting sleep, which could be beneficial for individuals with eating disorders who struggle with insomnia.
- Reducing pain, which could be useful for some individuals who experience chronic pain as a result of their disorder.
- Reducing inflammation, which could be helpful for some individuals with eating disorders who develop chronic inflammatory conditions.
- Improving mood and reducing the impact of stress and anxiety, which could be helpful for some individuals suffering from eating disorders.
Summary
Early studies suggest that cannabinoids may be beneficial for treating some eating disorders. However, it’s important to remember that eating disorders are serious conditions and should be treated by a healthcare provider. Eating disorders are often a sign of a deeper underlying issue, and it’s important to seek help before further complications develop. Marijuana, like all drugs, has risks and may not work for everyone. Before trying marijuana to treat an eating disorder, be sure to speak with your doctor, Visit BCMedichornic.co online dispensary for all your cannabis needs.
