Marijuana Eating Affects

Marijuana can have both positive and negative effects on people. Often, the benefits of the positive effects need to be weighed against the risks. Depending on the person, various effects can be either. One of the most common effects of marijuana is an increased appetite.

Effects of Marijuana Addiction on Eating Habits

Marijuana, like other drugs, affects the body in a multitude of ways. It does this by binding to specific receptors inside the central nervous system. Specifically, cannabinoids react with the CB1 receptor. The CB1 receptor increases appetite in several ways.

The CB1 reactor primarily effects the brain in three places. The effects on the hind brain include an increased desire to take in food. The reward center of the brain makes food more satisfying. The limbic portion of the forebrain makes food seem more palatable. Marijuana also affects the hypothalamus and the stomach, intestinal lining and hypothalamus.

All of this adds up to make what can be the best, or worst effect of marijuana. This is commonly known as “the munchies.” In patients with HIV or cancer, the increased appetite can allow patients to minimize weight loss and increase survival rates. In those who abuse the drug, this increased appetite can cause undesired weight gain, leading to an unhealthy weight.

How Eating Habits Change When Marijuana is No Longer Used

When marijuana use is stopped, appetite is often lost. This effect is more common in patients who use marijuana heavily over many years. Other withdrawal symptoms, including irritability, sleeplessness and aggression, are also common.

Treatment for Marijuana Addiction

These symptoms typically peak within days of stopping the drug. Medically serious symptoms of the withdrawal process are rare. Because of this, medications and other medically based treatments are not typically prescribed. May addiction specialist recommend exercise, saunas and other natural methods to reduce the symptoms of marijuana withdrawal.

After completing a drug rehabilitation program, many people go on to do great things. Programs can last anywhere from 30 days to two years. Typically, longer programs have better success rates. Continued follow-up is essential for maintaining sobriety.

It is difficult to overcome an addiction on your own. Thankfully, qualified addiction specialists are available to help. Thousands of people enter both inpatient and outpatient treatment programs each year to help overcome addictions. If you, or someone you love, need help overcoming an addiction, getting help is the single best thing you can do. Click the links below for more information.