Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound that’s found within the cannabis plant. CBD is widely used for a variety of different things and will likely continue growing in popularity as more benefits are discovered.1 Some people have found that CBD helps with weight loss, and there are a variety of different products you can consider if this is your goal.
However, weight loss is a complex issue, and research on CBD is still in its earliest stages. There isn't much that can be said for certain. That still won't stop people from turning to the popular cannabinoid for weight loss help. While the weight loss properties of these gummies may not be backed by science, they are among the most preferred options based on user reports and have properties that research suggests may help.
What is CBD?
CBD is a cannabinoid that’s naturally found in cannabis. Cannabinoids are specific compounds that interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body. It is through this interaction that individuals can experience a variety of different benefits.
It’s important to note that there are a few differences between CBD and THC, which is another popular cannabinoid. While THC will produce a "high," CBD will not.
When it comes to purchasing CBD products, it’s important to check the ingredients and see if it contains any THC. CBD products purchased at state-licensed dispensaries may contain THC, and the concentration is usually marked as a ratio of CBD to THC, like 2:1.
With federally legal hemp-derived CBD products, things get a little trickier. These products must contain less than 0.3% THC, an amount low enough not to produce the plant's well-known "high."Some of these CBD products are marketed in a way that makes it seem like it doesn’t have any THC when, in reality, it might. Broad-spectrum and CBD isolate products should contain no detectable levels of THC, while full-spectrum ones will likely contain the federally allowed maximum of 0.3%.2 Checking for THC is especially important if you get drug tested at work or are going to be driving, so make sure that you’re aware of what’s in the product(s) that you’re going to be purchasing.
There are a variety of different benefits that can come from using CBD, including relief from pain, nausea, and spasticity.3 Many individuals use CBD for symptoms of anxiety, sleep problems, stress, and overall health.4 It’s also possible that CBD and THCV could help in the treatment of diabetes.5 Understanding the various benefits that CBD can provide is essential, especially if you have specific health goals that you’re looking to achieve.
Before beginning to take CBD, it’s essential to speak with your doctor. Checking with a medical professional is always a good idea when you’re adding or removing something from your health and wellness routine.
How Can CBD Help With Weight Loss?
If you’re currently trying to lose weight, you may be wondering if CBD could help. While there isn’t a large amount of definitive research in this area, a few different studies are worth noting.
It’s possible that CBD could work as an appetite suppressant through its interaction with the CB1 receptors within the body. In addition, CBD mediates obesity through the CB2 receptor. While this may make CBD an option for weight loss, its abilities are likely largely dependent on the dose. There hasn’t been enough research to understand what dosage is right for weight loss, so consider your biology and tolerance when deciding what amount of CBD is right for you.
CBD may also create changes in the gut that could factor into weight loss. There isn’t much research to back this possibility up, but some professionals believe this could be a possible solution for losing weight.6
We’ve already discussed how CBD may be able to help individuals lose weight, but could it also prevent them from gaining weight in the future? Possibly.
One study on rats that were given CBD found that even when fed a high-fat diet, they were protected from weight gain. The researchers suggest this is due to the ability of CBD to mediate the overactive cannabinoid receptors present during obesity. However, this study points out an exciting possibility, potentially showing that CBD could have a wide range of benefits in gaining and losing weight. In fact, in the early 2000s, a CB1 antagonist was developed, Rimonabant, and while the drug did cause some severe side effects, causing it to be pulled from the market, it demonstrated the potential of CB1 antagonists for weight loss.7
Anxiety and stress levels are at an unhealthy level for most Americans, and that can influence someone’s weight. Interestingly, CBD is a potential option for reducing anxiety and helping individuals feel more calm.8 CBD takes time to build up to its most effective dose within the body, so it can take some acclimation before feeling the true potential of CBD. Either way, you may get various potential health benefits and notice that your anxiety symptoms are also lower.
Another wellness factor that can influence weight is sleep. CBD for sleep might be an extremely effective way to calm down at night's end and ensure you’re relaxed enough to get some Zs. If you’re using CBD for sleep, consider what dosage is right for you. Some people choose to start with a lower dosage and then work their way up if necessary, as this can be a good way to avoid taking too much CBD at one time.
How to Choose the Best CBD Gummies for Weight Loss
If you’ve ever researched edibles for weight loss, you understand just how many options are out there. It can quickly be overwhelming to shop for cannabis products, especially if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Below are a few things to consider the next time that you’re shopping for edibles.9
Lab-Tested CBD: One of the most important things to consider when it comes to buying CBD products is whether or not they were lab-tested. Look for a certificate of analysis (CoA) when you’re considering purchasing a product, as this will give you more information and peace of mind. If you’re considering buying a product from a brand that doesn’t test its products rigorously, that might not be the right product for you.
Reputable Brands: Shopping for reputable brands is essential. There are so many different CBD and cannabis companies out there, but not all of them are the same. Some brands cut corners and use ingredients that aren’t preferable, so consider learning more about a brand before purchasing their products. Most brands will have information about their testing practices, ethics, and procedures on their website. Taking a look at this information can be an excellent way to learn more about which products are the right choice for you.
Ingredients: Just as with anything you’re going to consume, it’s important to look at the ingredient lists of CBD products. Especially if you’re looking to lose weight, opt for choices that are low in sugars and fats (two things that are common in gummies). When it comes to buying edibles for weight loss, it’s best to stick with products that have natural ingredients, so you won’t have to worry about any adverse effects that they may have.
Benefits: Certain CBD products are marketed with specific benefits in mind, such as weight loss or anxiety reduction. However, it is important to take caution with companies that recommend their CBD product for any ailment as they are not FDA-approved for such. This doesn’t take away from other potentially beneficial ingredients that have demonstrated potential in weight loss, such as low sugar and healthy options. Taking a look at a product’s particular ingredients can give you a better understanding of how your body might react to it and if it’s the right product for you.
Dosage: One of the most important factors to consider when looking for an edible product is the dosage that it comes with. Some gummies contain 10mg of CBD, while capsules may be higher or lower, and tinctures vary widely. Especially if you’re new to using CBD, consider a product that has a lower dosage, as you can always take more, but it can be difficult to portion out a product accurately if it’s too much.
Ask a Budtender: What Are the Best CBD Gummies to Lose Weight?
Below are four of the top picks for the best CBD gummies that consumers have reported trying to help them on their weight loss journey. Take a look at the following products and see if any of them could be the right choice for you. As always, make sure to do your own research and speak with a doctor if you have any concerns.
Smokiez Sugar-Free Tangerine CBD Gummiez 10 pack
When you’re trying to lose weight, choosing a sugar-free option is a great idea. These gummies (or should we say “gummiez”) are sugar-free and don’t have gelatin, gluten, or dairy. If you have dietary restrictions, this might be the right product. These gummies are available in multiple different flavors. Each one of these gummies contains 25mg of CBD.
medterra Daily Delight CBD+THC Gummies
If you’re looking for an option that you can take daily, this could be the right choice. These gummies were created with consistency in mind, so they’re a great option if you want to add something to your daily health and wellness routine. It’s important to note that these gummies do contain THC (though the majority of their cannabinoids are CBD). These gummies are known for their potency, so keep that in mind when you’re deciding what dosage is right for you.
+PlusCBD CBD Gummies
These gummies are known for their great taste, but that doesn’t mean they’re unhealthy. In fact, they have no artificial sweeteners or gluten. One great aspect of these gummies is that they’re third-party tested, so you can trust that they’re quality and you’re actually getting what you’re paying for. There are multiple different sizes and flavors available. If you want a product you can rely on, check out this great option.
Bluebird Botanicals CBD Gummies
This hemp supplement is a great choice for a few different reasons. Not only do these gummies contain organic cane sugar, but they also promote healthy skin and relaxation. This company recommends that individuals take one to two gummies daily, not exceeding two. The brand also recommends that people keep a log of the changes and benefits that they notice. This brand is very open with its test results, so take a look at its lab findings and see if this could be the right purchase for you and your weight loss journey.
References
- Corroon J, Phillips JA. A Cross-Sectional Study of Cannabidiol Users. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. 2018;3(1):152-161. doi:https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2018.0006
↩︎ - Cather JC, Cather JC. Cannabidiol primer for healthcare professionals. Proc (Bayl Univ Med Cent). 2020;33(3):376-379. Published 2020 Jul 6. doi:10.1080/08998280.2020.1775437
↩︎ - National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, Health and Medicine Division, Board on Population Health and Public Health Practice. Therapeutic Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids. In: The Health Effects of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: The Current State of Evidence and Recommendations for Research. National Academies Press (US); 2017. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK425767/
↩︎ - Moltke J, Hindocha C. Reasons for cannabidiol use: a cross-sectional study of CBD users, focusing on self-perceived stress, anxiety, and sleep problems. Journal of Cannabis Research. 2021;3(1). doi:https://doi.org/10.1186/s42238-021-00061-5
↩︎ - Iffland K, Grotenhermen F. An Update on Safety and Side Effects of Cannabidiol: A Review of Clinical Data and Relevant Animal Studies. Cannabis and Cannabinoid Research. 2017;2(1):139-154. doi:https://doi.org/10.1089/can.2016.0034
↩︎ - Pinto JS, Martel F. Effects of Cannabidiol on Appetite and Body Weight: A Systematic Review. Clin Drug Investig. 2022;42(11):909-919. doi:10.1007/s40261-022-01205-y
↩︎ - Bielawiec P, Harasim-Symbor E, Chabowski A. Phytocannabinoids: Useful Drugs for the Treatment of Obesity? Special Focus on Cannabidiol. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2020;11:114. Published 2020 Mar 4. doi:10.3389/fendo.2020.00114
↩︎ - Henson JD, Vitetta L, Quezada M, Hall S. Enhancing Endocannabinoid Control of Stress with Cannabidiol. J Clin Med. 2021;10(24):5852. Published 2021 Dec 14. doi:10.3390/jcm10245852
↩︎ - VanDolah HJ, Bauer BA, Mauck KF. Clinicians' Guide to Cannabidiol and Hemp Oils. Mayo Clin Proc. 2019;94(9):1840-1851. doi:10.1016/j.mayocp.2019.01.003
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The information in this article and any included images or charts are for educational purposes only. This information is neither a substitute for, nor does it replace, professional legal advice or medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have any concerns or questions about laws, regulations, or your health, you should always consult with an attorney, physician or other licensed professional.
