New research shows that people who use marijuana tend to weigh less than those who don’t. These findings run contrary to a common perception that cannabis users end up becoming obese.
The researchers took data from the National Epidemiologic Survey of Alcohol and Related Conditions and analyzed the BMI (body mass index) of 33,000 participants in the survey.
The analysis showed that out of all the cannabis users, 15 percent could be categorized as obese while the fraction of obese people among non-users of cannabis stood at 20 percent.
The data studied indicated that during the three-year period under scrutiny, all the participants registered an increase in weight. However, that increase was higher among those who didn’t use marijuana.
Granted, the weight difference between cannabis users and non-users was modest. For example, the difference was just two pounds for individuals weighing 200 pounds at the start of the research. However, that difference was observed throughout the study population.
These findings seem to suggest that people who use cannabis consistently have a lower likelihood of becoming obese over the years.
The lead author of the study, Assistant Professor Omayma Alshaarawy, wasn’t certain why those who use marijuana are less likely to become obese.
One of the possible reasons that he advances is that marijuana users may become more conscious about their eating habits due to the “munchies” associated with marijuana consumption. This behavioral factor can then explain why their weight stays in check.
Another possible reason that the researchers present is that marijuana may affect cells or receptors on cells to the extent that the tendency to gain weight is curbed. The researchers weren’t sure about the causative factor for this weight difference, so they called for more research to be done on the matter.
Alshaarawy was also quick to warn that their research should not be used as a reason for people to consume cannabis in order to manage their weight. He cautioned that the full extent of marijuana’s effects on the body hasn’t been understood yet, so people should use other methods of managing their weight instead of consuming cannabis as a weight-management technique.
For those who may be doubtful about the motivation of the researchers, remember that the study was funded by the National Institutes of Health, so there was no motivation to present marijuana in a favorable light.
Chemistree Technology Inc. (CSE: CHM) (OTCQB: CHMJF) and Canopy Rivers Inc. (TSX.V: RIV) (OTC: CNPOF) welcome the research which will help to dispel some of the misconceptions that have surrounded cannabis for long.
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