Does CBD Make You Hungry? Munchies, Hunger & More Skip to content
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Does CBD Make You Hungry?


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CBD does not induce hunger like THC does, as it lacks an affinity for binding to CB1 or CB2 receptors, which are key in triggering “munchies.” Instead, CBD helps regulate the body’s natural processes by inhibiting enzymes that break down cannabinoids, allowing the endocannabinoid system to function efficiently.

Out of our 10000 customers, only 0.05% have mentioned experiencing changes related to hunger or appetite.

The sensation of hunger is a balance of hormones and chemicals controlled by the hypothalamus in the brain. Every time external or internal influences activate the lateral thalamus, it causes us to feel hunger. The ventromedial thalamus controls satiety. Whenever the ventromedial thalamus is stimulated, we feel full.

If currently, you're not on a regular eating schedule, it can help to return your body to a state of homeostasis that can improve your eating habits.This can be helpful if you're experiencing a lack of appetite. Consuming CBD could help to support regulating your diet.

And for your diet, the positive news is that CBD shouldn't give you the munchies or incite hunger, but research shows that CBD may have some influence on your appetite.

neurogan cbd capsules with girls hand in bottle grabbing a capsule

    Do CBD Product types give you the Munchies?

    CBD products are often used to regulate appetite, but they don’t induce the intense hunger known as the “munchies” associated with THC. Depending on the type of extract and the form of CBD, the effects on appetite can vary.

    Does Full-Spectrum extracts Cause Munchies?

    Full-spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC (less than 0.3%), which may subtly influence appetite through the entourage effect, but not enough to trigger strong munchies. Broad-spectrum CBD, which is THC-free, focuses more on regulating appetite without the craving-inducing effects of THC. Both types can help maintain balanced appetite levels through their interaction with the endocannabinoid system.

    Do CBD Gummies Lead to Intense Munchies?

    CBD gummies typically do not lead to munchies. While they can help with mood and stress relief, they do so without stimulating appetite in the same way THC products do. Keep an eye out on the cannabinoid profile, to ensure there isn't a high amount of THC, as that could contribute to higher cases of munches.

    Does CBD Oil Make You Hungry?

    CBD oil, available in high and low dosages, does not cause sudden hunger spikes or cravings. It works by promoting stress relief and improving mood, which can contribute to regulated eating habits. Unlike THC, CBD oil’s effect is more subtle, supporting balanced appetite management without inducing munchies.

    Why Is Boosting The Appetite Important?

    What can CBD do for Hunger?

    CBD Can Improve Hypothalamus Sensitivity

    Remember, the ECS is involved in maintaining homeostasis in our body's vital systems, our metabolic function being one of them. CBD can suppress a ravenous appetite by improving the hypothalamus' sensitivity. Sometimes external factors and even physiological changes in hormones can alter our sensitivity to hunger and satiety signals [8].

    If our body has enough energy stores, we shouldn't feel the urge to eat, so improving the hypothalamus sensitivity can curb unnecessary cravings.

    Regular CBD Use May Improve Mitochondrial Function

    CBD has been shown to target mitochondria to regulate Ca2 levels [9]. As we know, the mitochondria are the "powerhouse of the cell." Improving mitochondrial function makes it a more efficient powerhouse to convert fat and sugars into energy, meaning we're using the energy we consume much more efficiently and don't crave other energy sources, making CBD oil and gummies for weight loss a great product to add to your optimal health journey.

    neurogan full spectrum cbd oil with cbd smoothie in the background

    CBD for Hunger, Munchies Recap

    Everyone may have a different experience with CBD depending on their health condition, genetics, and experience with CBD oils. When we look at the studies for how CBD may affect your urge for munchies, there's not enough information to prove that CBD directly activates hunger-inducing pathways the same way THC does.

    CBD has a unique effect on the endocannabinoid system. Rather than binding to the main receptors, CB1 and CB2, CBD increases the levels of endogenous cannabinoids, helping the ECS perform its job better as a master regulator of vital systems. 

    CBD may subtly increase your hunger by toning the ECS if you need to be consuming more food. At the same time, if you're over-consuming food, CBD may help suppress your appetite by increasing the sensitivity of your satiety signals. 

    FAQ

    Does CBD make you hungry?

    No, CBD will not make you hungry. But If you need to eat more, CBD may slightly enhance your appetite by tuning the ECS. Simultaneously, if you overeat, CBD may help decrease your appetite by boosting the sensitivity of your satiety signals.

    How does full spectrum CBD oil make you feel?

    THC concentrations in broad spectrum CBD oil can reach 0.3%. This trace amount of THC should not be enough to trigger hunger or intoxication. However, people who are new to CBD oils or who are taking heavy dosages of CBD oil indicate a desire to munch on food.

    Resources:

    1. Walter, C., Oertel, B. G., Ludyga, D., Ultsch, A., Hummel, T., & Lötsch, J. (2014). Effects of 20 mg oral Δ9‐tetrahydrocannabinol on the olfactory function of healthy volunteers. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology78(5), 961-969.
    2. Martz, M. E., Trucco, E. M., Cope, L. M., Hardee, J. E., Jester, J. M., Zucker, R. A., & Heitzeg, M. M. (2016). Association of marijuana use with blunted nucleus accumbens response to reward anticipation. JAMA psychiatry73(8), 838-844.
    3. Di Marzo, V. (2011). Endocannabinoids: an appetite for fat. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences108(31), 12567-12568.
    4. Bermudez-Silva, F. J., Romero-Zerbo, S. Y., Haissaguerre, M., Ruz-Maldonado, I., Lhamyani, S., El Bekay, R., ... & Cota, D. (2016). The cannabinoid CB1 receptor and mTORC1 signalling pathways interact to modulate glucose homeostasis in mice. Disease Models & Mechanisms9(1), 51-61.
    5. Ryan, D., Drysdale, A. J., Lafourcade, C., Pertwee, R. G., & Platt, B. (2009). Cannabidiol targets mitochondria to regulate intracellular Ca2+ levels. Journal of Neuroscience29(7), 2053-2063.
    6. Kirkham, T. C., & Williams, C. M. (2001). Endogenous cannabinoids and appetite. Nutrition research reviews14(1), 65-86.
    7. Parker, L. A., Rock, E. M., & Limebeer, C. L. (2011). Regulation of nausea and vomiting by cannabinoids. British journal of pharmacology163(7), 1411-1422.
    8. Maroon, J., & Bost, J. (2018). Review of the neurological benefits of phytocannabinoids. Surgical neurology international9.
    9. Ryan, D., Drysdale, A. J., Lafourcade, C., Pertwee, R. G., & Platt, B. (2009). Cannabidiol targets mitochondria to regulate intracellular Ca2+ levels. Journal of Neuroscience29(7), 2053-2063.

    Disclaimer

    The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product.

     

    view Katrina Lubiano author page
    BY
    Katrina Lubiano

    BA in English Katrina has always had a passion for health sciences and literature. She works as a content writer, editor, and strategist in the health and wellness space, primarily focusing on cannabis education. She’s written well over 400,000 words on the subject—including demystifying laws a...


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