Almost everyone who has ever indulged in cannabis is familiar with this phenomenon: the sudden insatiable hunger that often leads to uncontrolled binging.
In this article, you’ll learn about the scientific roots of this effect and how to keep it in check or even prevent it. We’re bringing you handy tips and strategies to tackle the munchies after smoking weed.
A Summary for Those Who Prefer a Quick Read
Munchies after smoking weed are triggered by THC and its effects on the endocannabinoid system. To manage these hunger pangs, prepare healthy snacks in advance, drink plenty, distract yourself and keep active.
Even though you might not fancy this piece of advice: cut down your cannabis consumption or consider CBD as an alternative.
The Science Behind the Munchies
The Endocannabinoid System and Sense of Smell
A study by the University of Bordeaux discovered that THC (Tetrahydrocannabinol) – the psychoactive component of cannabis – interacts with our olfactory system, significantly enhancing our ability to smell food.
This stimulates appetite as we can perceive food odors and tastes more intensely. This effect is due to the endocannabinoid system, which among other things is responsible for regulating emotions, pain sensations, and appetite.
Dopamine and the Nucleus Accumbens
Another study pointed out that cannabis also interacts with receptors in the nucleus accumbens, a part of the brain. Here, cannabis boosts the release of neurotransmitter dopamine, which gives us a feeling of pleasure and reward.
This feeling is also experienced when we eat, prompting us to eat more to prolong this pleasant sensation. Essentially, our reward system is activated, and our craving for food intensified.
Possible Health Consequences of the Munchies
Weight Gain and Obesity
If you consistently succumb to the munchies, this can lead to an increased calorie intake, which in turn heightens the risk of weight gain and obesity.
Especially problematic are often unhealthy foods that we tend to consume during a munchie attack, as they generally contain high levels of sugar and fat.
Blood Sugar Fluctuations
Binge eating can also result in sudden blood sugar fluctuations, particularly if lots of sugary foods are consumed. In the short-term, this can cause an energy surge but can just as quickly plunge into an energy slump when blood sugar levels drop again.
Tactics to Dodge or Manage the Munchies
Prepping Healthy Snacks for Munchies
One strategy to counteract those pesky munchies is to have healthy snacks ready beforehand. Instead of reaching for junk food, set aside fruits, veggie sticks, nuts, or yoghurt. It becomes much easier to opt for healthier alternatives when the munchies hit.
Feeling the Munchies Coming? Distract Yourself!
Distractions can be a great way to manage the munchies. Engage yourself in a thrilling movie, some music, a good book or any creative activity that diverts your brain from those hunger pangs.
Keep Hydrated
Often, we mistake thirst for hunger. Make sure to drink enough water or unsweetened drinks to meet your fluid needs and possibly soften the blow of those munchies.
Exercise and Fresh Air
A stroll in the fresh air or a bit of physical activity can also assist in curbing the munchies. Exercise can lessen food cravings by suppressing feelings of hunger while boosting well-being at the same time.
Long-Term Solutions: Cut Down on Consumption or Switch to Alternative Cannabinoids
Reduce Cannabis Consumption
A long-term tactic to avoid munchies involves cutting down on cannabis consumption or stopping entirely. This could be crucial if you notice the munchies affecting your health or overall comfort negatively.
CBD as an Alternative
If you still want to enjoy the positives of cannabis without having to deal with munchies, CBD (Cannabidiol) may be an alternative for you.
CBD is a non-psychoactive cannabinoid that does not trigger munchies but still offers some of cannabis’s medicinal benefits, such as pain relief, relaxation, and anxiety alleviation.
Summary and Concluding Thoughts on Munchies
Munchies after toking up are a common side-effect of cannabis consumption, triggered by THC’s effect on the endocannabinoid system and the involved neurotransmitters.
Potential health implications like weight gain, obesity, and blood sugar fluctuations should not be overlooked.
To control or avoid munchies, you can adopt various strategies like prepping healthy snacks, keeping yourself distracted, staying hydrated and regularly engaging in outdoor activities.
In the long run, reducing cannabis consumption or using CBD as an alternative can be beneficial to dodge munchies and still reap the positive effects of cannabis.
Overall, it’s crucial to consciously deal with your cannabis consumption and its associated effects.
By understanding the reasons behind your munchies and following the tips above, you can keep those cravings at bay and maintain a healthier lifestyle.
The munchies are primarily caused by THC’s interaction with the endocannabinoid system, enhancing your sense of smell and appetite.
Prepare healthy snacks, stay hydrated, keep yourself busy with activities, or consider using CBD, which does not trigger munchies.
Yes, regularly succumbing to munchies can lead to weight gain, obesity, and fluctuations in blood sugar levels.
Opt for fruits, veggie sticks, nuts, or yogurt instead of high-sugar or fatty snacks.
Drinking enough water can help curb hunger, as sometimes thirst is mistaken for hunger.
Yes, physical activity can suppress hunger and increase feelings of well-being, helping to control munchies.
