Can CBD Oil Help You Lose Weight?

First you may be wondering what does CBD stand for and what is it? CBD stands for Cannabidiol. One of the over 100 cannabinoids commonly found in cannabis. CBD is the second most abundant cannabinoid, after THC or tetrahydrocannabinol. THC is the infamous psychoactive molecule, whereas, CBD is non-psychoactive and still holds many possible therapeutic benefits.

Cannabidiol may stop the break down of anandamide, often referred to as the “bliss molecule”, in your brain. In turn, this allows for anandamide to remain in your body longer, which helps relieve some pain and boost overall brain function. Furthermore, CBD may also regulate your bodies production of small inflammatory causing proteins, called cytokines. 

Can CBD Promote Weight Loss?

New research suggests that CBD may boost metabolism and reduce food intake. Which in turn could promote weight loss. To elaborate, some animal studies indicate that CBD affects weight by interacting with the CBD1 and CBD2 receptors in the brain and in the lymphoid tissue, which is part of your bodies immune system.

In the two week animal study, rats were injected with a rather large doses of CBD daily . The first groups dose was 2.5 mg/ per kg of body weight and the second groups dose was 5mg/kg (1.1mg/lb and 2.3mg/lb). Both doses produced significant findings in terms of body weight reduction. The higher dose had a more profound effect. **Two very important facts that stand out to me about this study are: 1) The CBD was injected directly into the rats. 2) The dosage of CBD was much higher than what a human would typically take.

May Promote Browning of Fat Cells

To start, what exactly are the different types of fat cells? Well there are two types of fat cells, brown and white, that exist in your body. White fat is more commonly known form of fat that is responsible for storing energy and supplying it when need be. Furthermore, while white fat cells are also good for protecting and cushioning your organs, they are also commonly associated with chronic illnesses like heart disease.

Contrarily, brown fat cells burn calories to generate heat. Individual’s who are healthier tend to have more brown fat cells than overweight individuals. Some ways you may be able to convert your white fat cells to brown fat cells is by exercising, exposing yourself to cold temperatures, and getting enough sleep. Fascinatingly, research shows that CBD may promote this process of “ browning.” One test tube study suggested that CBD enhanced the expression of certain protein and genes that promote “Browning” of fat cells.