Does smoking marijuana increase your metabolism?

Dear Munchie Metabolism, 

The jury’s still out on this one! Scientists haven’t been able to definitively say whether marijuana (also called pot, weed, dope, and cannabis, just to name a few) really increases your metabolism. Studies show that long-term users of marijuana are less likely to be obese compared to non-users. Some emerging research suggests that marijuana may affect hormones associated with metabolism and appetite. That said, the relationship between marijuana and metabolism is still unclear and likely influenced by many other factors. In addition, gobbling up goodies when you get the marijuana munchies may also affect your health and body in other ways, beyond metabolism and weight.  

So, why does marijuana give you the munchies? It has tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive chemical compound which causes the “high” you get no matter your mode of using it. THC activates the endocannabinoid receptors in your brain. These are thought to regulate bodily functions like hunger and eating. This interaction produces food cravings and promotes fat storage in the body. It also increases the release of dopamine, a chemical messenger which affects pleasure and reward in the brain. Additionally, studies have shown that consuming cannabis through food and drink may trigger higher levels of ghrelin, a chemical often known as the “hunger hormone.” Ghrelin’s role is to stimulate appetite and food intake. All of this might explain why those sweet, salty, and fatty treats may appear to have a heavenly glow about them when you’re high. 

Emerging research suggests that marijuana may affect insulin, a hormone that helps move glucose—sugar—into your cells so your body can use them for energy. Studies have found that smoking, consuming, and vaping marijuana all suppress insulin spikes after a meal. This could suggest that marijuana helps the body process glucose more effectively. That said, it’s unclear why this happens and what its precise effects are on your body’s overall metabolism.  

It’s hard to say if marijuana users have a lower obesity rate because it affects their metabolism since there are other factors that could also be involved. For instance, according to research, marijuana users are also more likely to smoke cigarettes. The nicotine in cigarettes can speed up the body’s metabolism by 7 to 15 percent and can therefore cause more burnt calories.  

While more research may be needed to fully understand the link between marijuana and metabolism, what you eat still matters. Regularly consuming trans fats, excess sugar, and excess sodium can still lead to increased risk of heart disease, type II diabetes, and visceral fat around your organs. If you’re looking for information on how to achieve an eating plan that best supports your body’s needs, consider speaking with a registered dietitian or health care provider.  

At the end of the day, if something seems too good to be true... it just might be!