Cannabis & Eating Disorders

If there is one thread that is strung throughout humanity and continues through us all, it is the constant human need to survive. For most, eating is a natural and easy part of this instinct to survive. For some, like me, eating can be one of the most difficult battles we face. Anorexia and bulimia are emotional disorders that cause an obsessive desire to lose weight by refusing to eat or purging recently eaten meals. Years of this behavior only increase the stress caused by the sight of food.

In a world full of stimulation, it’s easy to distract ourselves from the stress food may cause. From one extreme to the other; someone with a compulsive eating disorder may binge on overly processed or sugary foods, indulging in the euphoria that the salt and/or sugar induce. Someone with Anorexia or Bulimia may choose to try appetite suppressing drugs or smoke cigarettes to avoid food entirely.

There are many current studies that show cannabis may be the answer to those who suffer from an eating disorder. For me, it absolutely was. In my experience, cannabis has helped relieve the anxiety food causes me and creates an open feeling in my stomach that allows me to eat. We have all heard of “the munchies,” that bottomless feeling in your stomach that turns your kitchen into a wonderland of snackdom. Though many assume any strain of cannabis will cause “the munchies,” there are many strains that do just the opposite. Strains high in THCV are actually an appetite suppressant. When looking for a strain to bring on hunger, choose an indica strain with a high amount of THC. For someone who suffers from an eating disorder, studies have shown that the functionality of CB1 receptors in the brain and nervous system, which bind with THC, are reduced. (‘Biological Psychiatry’) This means that we have fewer receptors that tell us we can eat whatever we want.

Here at The Higher Path, we have many options to help either end of an eating disorder. For those who have trouble losing weight, try Durban Poison, a THCv sativa strain that will keep you up and active and away from the snacks! If you are suffering from Anorexia or Bulimia, Harle-Tsu is a perfect CBD strain that helps induce hunger and relieve stress. Another great stress reliever strain that we carry is Blackberry Kush, my personal favorite for handling a panic attack brought on by food.

DISCLAIMER: The information on this site is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content, including text, graphics, images and information, contained on or available through this web site is for general information purposes only. Always consult a doctor before making any health changes, especially any changes related to a specific diagnosis or condition.

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