CBD has surged in popularity -- especially in the health and fitness world. Everyone from athletes & fitness junkies to moms & dads are reaching for this natural remedy to reduce stress, inflammation and anxiety. Research has also shown that this plant has the potential to aid in weight loss. What can’t this plant do?! (If you’re skeptical about how this plant can help with such a variety of issues (I was too!), read the first few paragraphs of our blog titled CBD as a Sleep Aid to help put things in perspective.) 

CBD may promote weight loss by:

Suppressing appetite 

Reducing stress

“Browning” fat cells

Exhibiting antioxidant properties

 

Photo credit: The Marijuana Times

The endocannabinoid system explained 

Within our bodies, we have a system known as the endocannabinoid system (ECS) which is made up of cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2). CBD is a cannabinoid which interacts with the cannabinoid receptors located throughout our body. 

Researchers believe a link exists between the activation of CB and obesity. In those who are obese, CB receptors are more widespread since more fatty tissue exists. CBD (phtocannabinoids) will naturally affect our body’s own cannabinoids (endocannabinoids) to activate or block receptors. That’s why researchers believe CBD may play a role in weight loss and other metabolic activities. 

Suppress appetite

CBD can suppress appetite. You are probably scratching your head because marijuana (another plant within the cannabis family) has a bit of a reputation when it comes to your appetite. CBD has been found to stimulate genes and proteins to enhance the breakdown of fat, increase the number and activity of mitochondria increasing the body’s ability to burn calories and decrease the release of the proteins involved in fat cell generation. As mentioned above, CBD causes molecules to activate or block receptors reducing your hunger. The shut down of these receptors can prevent overeating and reduce appetite. 

Reduce stress

The body has a system of hormonal checks and balances that may promote weight gain when you're stressed out. The stress chemical, cortisol, is a big health problem! Chronic or poorly managed stress may lead to increased cortisol levels that stimulate your appetite, with the end result being weight gain. This can also make it difficult to lose weight. 

You've guessed it - CBD helps to protect against excess stress. As an effective anti-catabolic substance (a substance which protects muscle mass in the body from being broken down), CBD counteracts cortisol from being released. Helping to keep cortisol levels in check allows for muscles to recharge and grow!

“Browning” fat cells

CBD plays a role in how the body interacts with fat. We have white fat and brown fat. Brown fat is “good” fat as it is more metabolically active since it has a large number of iron-containing mitochondria (the cell’s heat-burning engine). The purpose of brown fat is to burn calories in order to generate heat. 

White fat is the “bad” fat caused by poor diet and overeating. White fat is important for energy and protection purposes (to an extent) but it matters how much and where its located. PS - we do not want too much white fat!  CBD helps convert white fat cells into brown fat cells, referred to as “browning.” While many believe that white fat can increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and more, brown fat, on the other hand, can potentially promote weight loss by burning energy. 

Photo credit: CNN

Exhibit antioxidant properties

The National Institute of Health suggests CBD exhibits antioxidant properties meaning that it inhibits oxidation - a chemical reaction that produces free radicals (including those associated with the development of cancer) that eventually damage cells and lead to illnesses and chronic diseases. Antioxidants play an important role in a nutritious diet to maintain health and proper biological function. CBD was found to be a more powerful antioxidant than both vitamins C and E!

Studies show that CBD has anti-inflammatory properties (shutting down inflammation and reducing chronic pain), decreases blood sugar, decreases appetite, lowers abdominal obesity, and facilitates a good night’s sleep.  Although more human studies are needed, researchers note that CBD may be a promising therapy for preventing obesity. 

With all the benefits and no side effects like pharmaceuticals, see for yourself how CBD can help you! Plants still seem to be better chemists than humans...

Disclaimer: This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources: 

1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324733.php
2. https://ergohempco.com/blogs/news/hemp-cbd
3. https://www.medicinenet.com/does_stress_make_you_fat/ask.htm
4. https://www.womenshealthmag.com/health/a19896462/fat-facts/