Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained significant popularity in the natural health world, with some believing it can aid weight loss. While research suggests that CBD may be a promising treatment for some health problems, including relieving chronic pain, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation, there is not enough evidence to prove that it is effective for any of these issues. Researchers are also looking at the possibility that CBD can help people lose weight and reduce their risk of issues associated with overweight, such as diabetes and metabolic disorder.
Understanding CBD
CBD is one of many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. Another cannabinoid, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), is responsible for the psychoactive effects of cannabis. There is no evidence that CBD causes a high. The only uses of CBD that are approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) are for treating rare forms of epilepsy and specific causes of seizures. All other uses are off-label.
CBD is sometimes confused with delta-9 tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another compound found in the Cannabis sativa plant that causes a high. If there’s more than 0.3% of THC on a dry weight basis, the government categorizes it as marijuana. Cannabinoid isolates are purified substances that contain no measurable amounts of other substances. For example, CBD isolate contains CBD and no other cannabinoids in detectable amounts. Distillate is oil that has been extracted from the plant and then distilled to improve its quality.
How CBD May Aid Weight Loss
CBD may aid weight loss due to how it affects the body and brain. The effects of CBD in the body are largely due to how it affects the body’s natural endocannabinoid system. This system responds to different chemicals in the body through two cannabinoid (CB) receptors, called the CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are most dense in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are mainly in the immune system.
In people with obesity, however, CB1 receptors become more widespread, especially in fatty tissue. Because of this, researchers believe that there may be a link between the activation of the CB1 receptors and obesity. CBD works with other cannabinoids to potentially activate many receptors, such as endocannabinoid and serotonin. This may play a role in weight loss or other critical metabolic functions.
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Reduces Appetite
Many proponents say that CBD can help a person lose weight by reducing their appetite. Most people associate cannabis with a stimulated appetite, as people tend to feel hungry after using cannabis. While THC may cause hunger, there is little evidence that CBD does the same. THC, when it stimulates the CB1 receptor, releases a hormone that increases food intake. On the other hand, as the authors of one 2018 study note, CB1 receptor antagonists may help reduce appetite and control obesity. This is because CB1 receptor antagonists block off or “deactivate” the receptor. The authors also note that stimulating the CB2 receptors decreases inflammation and reduces food intake, thereby possibly helping reduce obesity. An older animal study from 2012 found that exposure to CBD reduced appetite in rats. No direct studies that show that it reduces appetite in humans.
Turns Bad Fat into Good Fat
Proponents of CBD for weight loss also claim that it can convert white, or “bad,” fat into brown fat, which may help the body burn calories. White fat may increase the risk of many chronic conditions, such as heart disease and diabetes. A 2016 study helps back up this claim. The researchers found that CBD plays multiple roles in how the body interacts with fat. In the study, CBD helped convert white fat cells into brown fat cells. It also stimulated the body to break down fats more efficiently. The researchers note that CBD may be a promising therapy for preventing obesity, but more studies in humans are necessary. Research from 2018 helps explain how CBD might break down fats in the body. The process of turning white fat cells to brown fat cells actually changes how these cells act in the body. Brown fat cells may be a more active form of fat. They burn off energy as heat, meaning that they actually burn calories. As a loss of calories is important for weight loss, CBD may help burn fat if it turns white fat to brown fat in the body.
Reduces the Risk of Metabolic Disorders
As other 2018 research notes, there is a close link between obesity and several metabolic disorders, such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. Overactivation of the CB receptors in the body may be partly responsible for this. Overactivation of the CB1 receptors in the fat tissue throughout the body could contribute to obesity and metabolic risks. A review in Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research also notes some highlights of past studies surrounding CBD and metabolic factors in animals. For instance, a treatment using CBD reduced total cholesterol by 25% in rats with obesity. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of CBD also appeared to decrease blood sugar levels and increase markers for liver health.
Important Considerations
While initial results from studies on CBD and weight loss raise some interesting potential connections, there are a few important things to consider. CBD, or any other compound, supplement, or drug, is not a treatment for obesity. These supplements and compounds are not healthful replacements for a healthful diet and regular exercise. A person who adds CBD to their weight loss plan without also exercising and eating healthfully may not see any benefits. It is best to work directly with a doctor when using CBD for weight loss. Doctors will want to discuss any other medications the person is taking, as CBD may cause adverse interactions. Taking CBD in different forms, for example, as gummies instead of a tincture, shouldn’t significantly impact its physiologic effects on the body.
The FDA does not regulate CBD products in the same way they regulate drugs, so companies sometimes mislabel or misrepresent their products. That means it’s especially important to do some research and find a quality product. Beware of any company that promises extreme results, and remember that results may differ. A product that works well for a friend or family member may not have the same effects for you. If a product doesn’t work for you, consider trying another with different ingredients or a different amount of CBD.
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“Lifestyle modifications like diet and exercise should always be started first and included with any weight loss regimen,” explains Dr. Buck. Eat a healthy, balanced diet. This will vary depending on each person’s specific nutrient needs for their age, health status and any food allergies or intolerances, says Gulbin. Increase daily fiber intake. This can support weight loss in many ways, including by improving gut microbiota diversity, which can make you feel fuller longer. Improve fluid intake. Move more each day.
CBD Gummies: A Convenient Option
CBD gummies are a convenient and discreet way of ingesting CBD. Gummies are an easy and discreet way of ingesting CBD. Some prefer ingesting CBD by eating edibles like gummies. CBD gummies come in a variety of potencies. But generally, it’ll be about 30 to 60 minutes before the results begin, although it can take longer. When you eat a CBD gummy, your body will first absorb it in the digestive system. Next, the active ingredients can move into your bloodstream, reaching your liver. From here, your liver metabolizes the ingredients before they enter the bloodstream again and finally get to your brain. This is when people generally notice the results, although everyone’s experience with onset time may differ. Of course, if you eat a CBD gummy on an empty stomach, you might notice results faster than if you take it with a full stomach.
Most gummies come in packs of 20 to 60, dosed at 5 mg or more of CBD per gummy. If you’ve never tried CBD, start with a 5-mg gummy. Some gummies can be cut in half, so you can start with 2.5 mg. Wait up to 2 hours to experience the full effects, and if you feel like you need more, experiment until you find a dose that’s just right. You can consume gummies daily, but keep in mind that their effects tend to last 4 to 6 hours. Lastly, remember to store gummies in a cool, dark place away from sunlight.
Choosing the Right CBD Gummies
When buying CBD gummies, it’s best to use the following criteria:
CBD source: The first thing to consider when purchasing CBD gummies is the type of CBD, which features three specific types. CBD isolate is pure CBD, with no other cannabinoids. While isolates are suitable for consumers who want to avoid THC, this extraction method strips away the flavonoids and terpenes found in cannabis. This means the end result won’t provide the full range of health benefits. Products made with broad-spectrum CBD contain most cannabinoids, plus other cannabis compounds, but they generally don’t contain THC. Products made with full-spectrum CBD can contain all the plant’s cannabinoids, including THC. Full-spectrum products provide the most therapeutic benefits due to the entourage effect, meaning cannabinoids have a greater effect combined than when consumed alone. The best bet is to go for a full- or broad-spectrum product made with organic hemp grown in the United States. Hemp grown in the United States is subject to agricultural regulations and can’t contain more than 0.3% THC. Any product that doesn’t specifically say what type of CBD was used - for instance, listing only “cannabis extract” as an ingredient - is probably one to avoid.
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CBD potency: Doses vary widely across CBD products, and potency may depend on the CBD source. For example, a 5-mg full-spectrum CBD gummy may feel a lot more potent than a 5-mg CBD isolate gummy. If you’re unsure what dose to look for, the best bet is to start with the lowest available - generally 2.5 mg to 5 mg - and increase from there. The dose of CBD can be very different from patient to patient, noting that starting doses of 20 to 30 milligrams are usually appropriate, but individual dosage amounts should be discussed with your health care practitioner.
Ingredients: There is a lot more to CBD gummies than just CBD - other ingredients can vary widely. Pay attention to additives, such as artificial ingredients and preservatives. You may also want to avoid high fructose corn syrup, and if you’re vegan or have allergies, look for products that match those needs. Consider CBD gummies made with organic, non-GMO ingredients, real sugar, and natural flavorings. Although you can purchase CBD products that contain vitamins or adaptogenic herbs, it may be best to avoid these. This is because experts are unsure how CBD interacts with vitamins, minerals, or supplements.
Third-party testing: Currently, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn’t guarantee the safety, effectiveness, or quality of over-the-counter CBD products. Only Epidiolex is FDA approved; all other CBD products are not. However, to protect public health, the FDA can take action against CBD companies that make unfounded health claims. It’s important to do your research and find a quality product. Take a look at the COA and make sure the product has been tested for contaminants like heavy metals, pesticides, and molds. You can also use the COA to verify that the product actually contains the amount of CBD and THC that the label says it does.
Dosage and Usage
There is no recommended CBD dosage for retail CBD products, including gummies. Starting “slow and low” is important when it comes to CBD dosing, says Dr. Williams. “For those new to CBD, it’s wise to start with a low dose to gauge how your body reacts,” she adds. For retail CBD gummies, Dr. McNally recommends looking for a product that contains a water-soluble (or emulsion) form of CBD rather than a CBD oil to assist with increased bioavailability.
After consuming a CBD gummy, it can be as soon as 30 to 60 minutes or up to a couple of hours before the effects kick in. It may take longer to notice the effects of CBD gummies compared with CBD oil. Gummies must travel through your digestive system before the effects can occur. If you’re looking for faster absorption, go for CBD oil.
Some CBD gummies come in higher doses and are meant to be taken only once daily, while others are less potent, meaning you can slowly take more as you get used to CBD and find the result you’re looking to achieve. Some CBD gummies are free from THC, but there’s always a risk that they contain trace amounts, which can result in a positive drug test. Full-spectrum CBD includes all the plant’s cannabinoids, meaning it contains THC. To be sure there’s no THC in your CBD gummies, select an isolate - also known as pure CBD.
As far as strength in effects, some 2022 research finds that CBG may exert more influence on pain receptors.
Potential Side Effects
CBD is non-intoxicating, meaning it will not get you “high.” Experts generally recognize it as safe, and there are few side effects, though they do occasionally occur. Potential side effects include fatigue, diarrhea, appetite changes, and weight changes. Research from 2017 suggests that CBD may interact with liver enzymes, potentially interfering with the metabolism of other medications or the breakdown of toxins. Always consult with a clinician before using CBD products, especially if you take any medications or supplements. Additionally, keep in mind that some research suggests that consuming CBD with high fat meals could increase your risk of side effects. This is because high fat meals can increase CBD blood concentrations. If you’re pregnant or nursing, avoid CBD.
Examples of CBD Gummies
Some options from our range of the best CBD gummies include:
- Cornbread Hemp Berry CBD Gummies
- Sunday Scaries Extra Strength CBD Gummies
- CBDfx Gummies
These options offer various flavors, doses, and CBD types. Some are also suitable for smaller budgets. Eating cannabidiol gummies is an easy and discreet way of taking CBD for stress relief, sleep support, and more.
The Legal Status of CBD
The Farm Bill, signed into law in the United States in late 2018, states that hemp and hemp-derived products with a THC content of less than 0.3% are legal. The legal status of CBD and other cannabinoids, however, varies by state. If someone is thinking of trying CBD, they can check their local laws.
The 2018 Farm Bill removed hemp from the legal definition of marijuana in the Controlled Substances Act. This made some hemp-derived CBD products with less than 0.3% THC legal at the federal level. However, CBD products containing more than 0.3% THC still fall under the legal definition of marijuana, making them federally illegal but legal under some state laws. Be sure to check state laws, especially when traveling.