Cannabis may help many things — manage pain, curb anxiety, change your mood, and, of course, make you munch your face off like some kind of eating machine. The munchies and weed go hand-in-hand; however, not always.
Strains for weight loss are a real thing for consumers wishing to avoid packing on extra pounds from excessive eating after getting high. Certain strain types, terpenes, and cannabinoids can potentially lend themselves particularly well to anyone exploring the delicate balance of consuming cannabis and suppressing appetite. Let’s explore the best cannabis strains for weight loss and why they are so efficient in doing so.
Cannabis remains federally illegal, so most information about its effects on metabolism comes from limited studies and individual anecdotal reports.
Weed strains are different varieties of the cannabis plant, or what researchers call “cultivars.” Different types of weed are unique not only in color, aroma, and taste, but also in genetics, such as cannabinoids and terpenes.
Some common weed strains include Gelato, Bubba Kush, and Sour Diesel. Each of those strains also falls into another category—hybrid, indica, or sativa.
People use sativa strains for energy because they’re known to produce more of a cerebral effect, put to best use in kick-starting the day with creativity and an uplifted feeling. Indicas have been said to create a stony, calming ‘couch-lock effect, perfect for the end of the day. Hybrid strains combine the best of both worlds into one variety that can feature effects from both an indica and a sativa strain.
Retailers still use these outdated terms, while researchers continue debating how to classify cultivars into more scientific chemovars and chemotypes based on cannabinoid and terpene profiles. Basically, there are THC-dominant strains, CBD-dominant strains, and others that feature higher levels of other cannabinoids such as THCV.
Researchers continue expanding on earlier findings that show people who consume cannabis have significantly lower rates of diabetes and obesity than non-consumers.
Researchers speculate that downregulating CB1 receptors—or cannabis’ anti-inflammatory effects on CB2 receptors—may explain the link. They believe CB1 receptors that are chronically overstimulated get downregulated, promoting the ironic weight-loss effect in the long term. The same study also determined that the correlation between cannabis use and lower body mass index (BMI) is definitely noteworthy.
Beyond CB1 and 2, recent studies note the endocannabinoidome (eCBome) is also at play through a host of other receptors and gut microbiome, further influencing weight and metabolism.
An additional recent study determined that cannabinoids can potentially minimize and improve inflammation and other symptoms related to obesity. These researchers also mention that cannabis improves metabolic processes via the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the ECS and PPAR and adenosine in the eCBome, which in turn regulate body weight while reducing the activation of stress and inflammation in cells and tissues. They also mention that cannabis consumers have a lower body mass index than non-consumers.
These studies collectively suggest a clear connection between cannabis use and human metabolism.
Some of the best cannabis strains for weight loss are varieties and cultivars you may already be familiar with; others you may not. Different types of weed offer varying potential results—some consumers reportedly reduce inflammation and stress on the body with certain cultivars, while others seek out strains that suppress appetite.
Something to keep in mind is that THCV strains usually also carry high THC. That’s because they both come from similar enzyme pathways in the plant that we haven’t figured out how to separate yet (i.e., THCA synthase vs. THCVA synthase). This will likely be the case until cannabis genetics become entirely selective for THCV one day, or if you use third-party tested THCV isolates or blends.
THCV is remarkable for its supposed ability to work as an appetite suppressant in smaller doses. The small doses qualifier is important—a hit here, or there, doesn’t overwhelm the CB1 receptors, therefore creating less of an urge to munch. Consumers puffing more than a few hits or a joint to the dome of THCV-rich weed supposedly negate this phenomenon. Lower CB1 receptor activity by THCV and downregulation from chronic THC can ultimately lead to weight loss.
Due to complex genetics described above, THCV strains are much harder to find in the cannabis marketplace; however, as more evidence grows concerning the potential benefits of the cannabinoid, more medical dispensaries are stocking products and strains with higher concentrations of it.
Some cannabis breeders, like Floyd at Hoku Seed Company in Washington state, specialize in varin cannabinoids like THCV. Anyone living in a state where homegrown is allowed has the option to grow their own, specialized THCV-rich strains that have higher than normal amounts of the cannabinoid compared to just what’s available from the dispensary.
This THCV-rich strain features a Durban Poison lineage capable of producing anywhere from 5-10% THCV. It also features a ~1:1 THC:THCV profile and a candy gas appeal to complement its rather large concentration of THCV compared to many other strains containing the unique minor cannabinoid.
Kannadaze V is another 1:1 THC:THCV strain from Hoku that crosses a landrace sativa with THCV. The results are not only potential clearheadedness and abundant energy from the landrace sativa but also a nice entourage effect from the 5:1 – 1:1 cannabinoid ratio.
This skunky autoflower plant is capable of some energizing, yet balanced effects due to its 1:1 THC:THCV ratio. It also has some of the highest THCV levels available on the market to grow and consume, according to the breeder.
Many consumers use sativa strains for energy; however, they also utilize these strains to suppress appetite—sativas overall are one of the best cannabis strains for weight loss. The effects are more active and uplifting, inspiring activity, compared to the sedative, couch-lock nature of indica strains. Sativa strains also contain higher concentrations of THCV cannabinoids compared to Indicas.
Landrace sativas are often very cerebral and uplifting, so it makes sense that Durban Poison is one of the best sativa strains for energy. There isn’t too much endless doomscrolling on the couch while polishing off a bag of chips with this strain, so combining a microdose of it can potentially provide activity and appetite suppression simultaneously.
The ever-popular and readily available strain, GSC, is a cross of Durban Poison. Its sativa genetics contain some THCV cannabinoids as well as humulene, a terpene that supposedly interacts with the human endocannabinoid system to suppress appetite.
Tangie’s lineage includes Skunk #1, one of the OG THCV-containing sativa strains, so it’s no surprise that this sativa-dominant cross, in small doses, helps to clean and organize the snack cupboard, not devour it.
The name says it all; this sativa strain was bred to contain higher than average levels of THCV for folks looking for one of the best cannabis strains for weight loss available on the market. A THCV range supposedly somewhere in the 3-5% range can be expected, so if you’re interested in sativa strains for energy AND potential weight loss, look no further.
A systematic review of 11 different peer-reviewed clinical trials related to CBD and appetite and body weight published in 2022 discovered that most findings correlate cannabidiol intake with reduced appetite and lower body weight. CBD ingestion may suppress hunger in people with higher BMI, which could explain these results.
ACDC isn’t just a legendary band that salutes those about to rock; it’s also one of the top, readily available CBD strains for medical and recreational consumers. The non-psychoactive, potentially medical effects of the strain provide the inflammation and stress relief that researchers link to receptors in the brain responsible for reducing appetite.
The ball is in your court regarding which strain to complement a healthy diet, exercise, and sleep regimen. That court, however, may only be as big as what’s available. Some states have very robust medical marijuana programs that can provide optimal marijuana strains for weight loss and appetite suppression—others provide their patients with a limited and inconsistent selection, regardless of medical needs.
Choosing the right strain for weight loss is a matter of utilizing what’s available to you. Sometimes growing your own is the best route if the market in your area is only providing the sound of crickets in the way of weed strains for weight loss.
There are plenty of THCV-rich cannabis seeds available to choose from online, as well as sativas and CBD-dominant strains. Meanwhile, many different sativas are usually available in most markets and can potentially help with losing weight—in small doses, of course!
Strains and products containing sativa-dominant terpene genetics, THCV, and CBD cannabinoid concentrations can potentially be the best choices concerning the correlation between cannabis and metabolism. Tinctures containing many of those whole-plant compounds are potentially more medically efficient, but avoid edibles and chocolates due to their high sugar content, THC distillate use, and proinflammatory, artificial additives.
Consumers often choose sativa strains for energy, which also ties in with their more active and motivating potential compared to indica strains, which are more sedating. These differences lie in their terpene profiles, with sativas carrying more energizing citrus-type (limonene) and indicas carrying sleepy myrcene.
Anecdotally, humulene is the terpene most related to encouraging weight loss, although research is lacking. It’s alleged effect on the CB receptors in the brain supposedly suppresses appetite and hunger, but this is not yet proven in animals. This uncommon terpene is found in some strains as a secondary terpene.
Researchers have uncovered evidence that THCV uniquely interacts with CB receptors in the brain to help suppress appetite, potentially leading to metabolic and anti-inflammatory improvements, leading to eventual weight loss. These findings, however, also underscore the importance of consuming lower doses to maintain the weight loss dynamic.
Low doses containing THCV can potentially be the best cannabis strains for weight loss. Landrace and sativa-dominant strains like Durban Poison are always top choices as strains that reportedly suppress appetite and contribute to a healthier overall lifestyle.
Cannabis is just one aspect of a healthy overall regimen to reduce weight. Proper diet, hydration, exercise, and sleep are most important—low doses of the right strains of cannabis can potentially assist, but overall, making smart choices is paramount.
Sativa strains containing high levels of THCV are the most optimal types of cannabis to act best as a potential appetite suppressant. CBD strains and products can also potentially work best as an appetite suppressant in higher doses than THCV; however, more research is needed to determine optimal dosing and efficacy.
GREAT article!! Very interesting.
Are there any edibles that contain THCV ? I have COPD and thought maybe an edible or oil would be better ?
Good day Christine,
Strans with THCV include: Durban Poison, Doug’s Varin, Girl Scout Cookies. You can find out more by reading this article. https://www.veriheal.com/blog/exploring-thcv-the-energizing-and-appetite-suppressing-cannabinoid/
I think that edibles and oils wil both be beneficial for you COPD. Just remember to start small with the edibles to avoid comsuming a potency which is too high, which will result in undesired effects.
Is the cannabis that promotes weight loss available in edibles?
Great question! There are THCV enriched edible products available in regulated markets. But they usually come in the form of sublingual tablets.
Does the type that helps with weight loss also help with PTSD/anxiety?
Hi Casey 🙂
People with PTSD sometimes experience a lack of appetite, so a strain suppressing appetite may not be the best. Please feel free to check out our article on cannabis for PTSD.
https://www.veriheal.com/blog/using-cannabis-to-help-treat-the-symptoms-of-ptsd/
Yeasss unless it’s making you want to eat your feelings….
Is there a weight loss strain THCV available in a vape?
You would need to consult with a dispensary as far as vape product availability. But ‘Durban Poison’ and ‘Jack the Ripper’ are popular strains that have high THCV content.
Definitely i saw the edibles here that can help you with that
https://stiiizy-lsd-dispensary.com/
I never knew of this study for weight loss. 2011 I was fit at 6’6″ 285lbs. I had a surgical procedure that put me in a bed for 5 months even learned to walk again but also the got me very heavy at about 400+lbs. After healed up I wanted to loose my gained weight. I tried all the gizmos and gadgets to loose weight and seriously nothing was working. I then got a MMC Oregon for treating my addiction to prescribed painkillers (opioids). A great thing about most of the weed I consumed was Girl Scout Cookies GSC. I got the best munchies every and thought if I’m getting hungry from just smoking then how about just not eating anything or at least something small for the time I have (The Munchies). I wasn’t starving myself I just didn’t eat while that affect munchies taking over. 2020 6’6″ 280lbs did the weed help loose weight I think so. PS… I’ve been about 275-300lbs. since 2014
I really liked this, thank you . ✌🏼💕
I never studied the strains in detail. I think my weight is not reducing even with cannabis. And now, reading this article, I came to know I had been using irrelevant strains. I think my weight is stubborn and constant. Moreover, I have fear. Many articles are saying THC is causing lung injury. That THC contains vitamin E acetate, which is injurious to health. What do you suggest? And one more question, are these weightloss cannabis available in edible form? I have never used anything in combination with cannabis except chocolates. I feel like edible cannabis is not that soothing as smoking cannabis. I really need some good edible cannabis recipes to lose weight or some blends or shakes, which could help in weight reduction. Though it’s very tough to leave my sugary treats and jump to a diet plan, all of a sudden, I’m going to try these tips seriously. Thanks.
Hi Jessica,
Thank you for reaching out. The debate on whether cannabis is causing damage to lungs has been ongoing for some time now. Some suggest that it is harmful, while other suggest that cannabis actually improves air up-take in the lungs. Again, we can’t give a definite response because of the lack of research. But I may suggest that some of the studies suggesting cannabis is harmful have been conducted using synthetic cannabinoids, which do not accurately represent the botanical ones. Most strains can be either found or put into edibls. We have some recipes for you to make your own cannabis coconut oil, which is easy to add to food. I hope this helps.
Can you fine the cannabis that promotes weight loss in capsule form for purchase at local dispensary shop.
Me too… I have asthma so I also need edibles… unfortunately…. everyone I have tried give me incredible munchies… and I had weight loss surgery… lost over 100 pounds… and now with the pain I have everywhere… I have gained 20 back…
Hi Corina and Dolores,
Most cannabis strains can be either be found or made into a form better for ingestion. Have a look at our recipe for coconut cannabis oil, which can easily be added to food and drink.
I was discussing this very subject with a friend the other day. Thanks for the information!
I will say one thing about alternative snack choices you posted.
Popcorn is what is considered a slider food. It slides through your stomach fast and doesn’t sustain energy, or surpress hunger. It will not fill the need. You’ll keep eating.
Thank you so much I have been looking for something that can help me lose weight and also help with my extreme pain. This post gives me a lot of wonderful information that I have had so much trouble finding.
Also is there a place I can buy these plants to grow myself in Canada.
Thank you Again
Hi Dolores, we are so happy you found this to be so helpful! A local dispensary should be able to point you in the right direction for locating seeds and plants.
Thank you so much
Where can I get deals
Look in weed maps for daily deals in your area. Once u visit a dispensary they usually get ur info along with ph# and u will also get texts from any & all visited dispensaries
What cbd seeds should I buy to plant for private use for weight lost and anxiety?
Hello. What strain would help me with muscle weakness. I have MS, Fibromyalgia, anxiety & depression. Thank you, I appreciate your help.
Hi Laura,
We have an article coming out soon which will be most helpful for you. In the meantime check out this article on fibromyalgia. https://www.veriheal.com/blog/using-cannabis-to-help-ease-the-symptoms-of-fibromyalgia/
How can you purchase THCV if you do not have a medical card. I live in ND.
What are some sativa brands that are appetite suppressants
The experience is good i have recover from mine too, i lost alot of weight.
This article was great and got me looking into how to microdose for weight loss. I’m in Los Angeles so the definitely not a shortage. The problem I’ve found is that the only strain available is Durban Poison. However, I was told that you can’t get tinctures, only can smoke or vape bc the tinctures are generic like Setiva and not actual strains. They said they are unaware of any strains that do this (Idk if they’re brands or how it works but the brand names only come in smokeable forms). So, you’d have to microdose by smoking. I do not do drugs and am only looking at doing this for the appetite suppressant, so not sure how to use this article to microdose and regulate it perfectly to not get high. Appreciate more explanation on how this can be accomplished. Thank you.
Hi Tori,
The strains include Tangie, Jack The Ripper, Skunk #1, Willie Nelson, etc. You can puchase the flower and consider making a coconut oil to aid to edibles. It can be hard to locate these strains but there are some applications you can use to search your area for specific strains or products, especially if its legal in your area.
Yes! People like this exist. I smoke and I’ve been a smoker for years. Most of the time I am surrounded by people who do not smoke at all. Doesn’t amaze me. I have some close friends, we hangout together internationally and vacation parties but they both have never smoked weed and I am a regular smoker and this thing doesn’t affect our friendship at all. It’s not about something being legal or illegal. If a thing is facilitating you either way it is totally okay for the other person to use it. I started using it for my chronic pain and eventually ended up like this. Being a marijuana enthusiast I keep on researching for good material and here I came. Have a nice day
Do you have any references where I can find these strains? None of the dispensaries in my area (PA) carry them.
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