As more Canadians turn to CBD products for their health benefits, one area drawing interest is CBD’s effects on appetite and digestion. With limited research available so far, what do we know about how CBD oil influences eating and the gut?
What is CBD Oil?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-intoxicating compound found in cannabis plants. CBD oil extracted from hemp contains CBD along with other beneficial plant compounds. Unlike THC, CBD does not produce any “high” and is completely legal in Canada.
When ingested, CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates various functions like sleep, pain, mood, and appetite. This communication between CBD and the endocannabinoid system is believed to be responsible for many of CBD’s therapeutic effects.
CBD’s Appetite and Digestion Effects
Research shows CBD oil can influence appetite and digestion in contradictory ways:
Boosting Appetite
Studies demonstrate CBD can increase appetite by interacting with CB1 receptors, key regulators of food intake. This may help combat conditions involving appetite loss like cancer, anorexia, and age-related wasting.
However, CBD can also…
Suppressing Appetite
CBD is shown to suppress appetite through interactions with 5-HT1A serotonin receptors, which affect satiety. This may help obesity, compulsive eating disorders, and associated metabolic conditions.
Easing Nausea
Via its impacts on serotonin signaling, CBD can reduce nausea and vomiting. This helps side effects from chemotherapy, gastroenteritis, and other sources.
Reducing Intestinal Inflammation
Through its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD shows promise for inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s and colitis by calming immune activity in the gut.
So CBD interacts with multiple systemic pathways that drive either increased or decreased appetite and food intake. Effects seem to depend on CBD dosing, timing, and an individual’s physiology.
Considerations for Canadians
While intriguing, research on CBD for appetite and digestion is still very limited. Canadians interested in trying CBD should discuss potential benefits and side effects with their healthcare provider, especially if managing other health conditions. Most experts recommend starting with low CBD doses and monitoring effects closely.
As the science continues to evolve, CBD offers a promising natural option for Canadians struggling with appetite and digestive issues in either direction. With mindful use and ongoing learning, CBD’s potential can be harnessed while we await more definitive research.
