An eating disorder is a mental health condition in which a person has an unhealthy relationship with eating. People with eating disorders may restrict their food intake, engage in binge-eating, and/or make themselves vomit after eating (purge).
The two most common eating disorders are:
- Anorexia: Extreme restriction of food
- Bulimia: Consuming large amounts of food (binging), then making yourself vomit (purging)
Eating disorders can lead to health complications, including:
- Malnutrition
- Heart issues
- Anxiety
- Poor bone health
Cannabis may help people with eating disorders by addressing underlying causes like anxiety and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), as well as possible byproducts, such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), nausea, or appetite loss.
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Research on cannabis for eating disorders
Studies suggest that cannabis may help increase appetite and reduce anxiety in people with eating disorders. Research shows that tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the dominant compound in cannabis, may help stimulate appetite and hunger to improve food intake.
Studies also show that cannabis may help with both HIV/AIDS and cancer-related anorexia. Dronabinol, a synthetic form of THC, is available through prescription for HIV/AIDS and cancer-related anorexia and cachexia (wasting syndrome).
Of the two clinical trials for anorexia, one found that dronabinol increases weight, while another found no effect. Dronabinol has also been shown to increase physical activity in people with anorexia.
Some research suggests that cannabidiol (CBD)can decrease appetite. However, CBD may help with underlying causes like anxiety.
More studies are needed to understand how cannabis affects eating disorders and whether it’s a safe and effective treatment. So far, the evidence is positive but limited.
Using cannabis for eating disorders
Cannabis’s effects can vary from person to person. Before using cannabis for an eating disorder, talk with your doctor to ensure it’s a safe option.
Benefits
Benefits of medical cannabis for eating disorders include:
- Increasing appetite: THC may help people with anorexia feel hungrier by stimulating the release of the hunger hormones leptin and ghrelin.
- Reducing anxiety and depression: Cannabis’s potential calming effects may ease food-related stress and help with underlying emotional factors.
- Improving sleep:Research suggests that sleep patterns play a role in anorexia. Cannabis may help improve sleep.
Risks and side effects
Potential risks and side effects of using cannabis include:
- Overeating: Using cannabis can sometimes lead to binge-eating, which may not be helpful for those with bulimia.
- Mental effects: High doses of THC may cause paranoia or increased anxiety.
- Dependence: Some people become reliant on cannabis to manage their symptoms.
Is it legal?
Cannabis laws vary across the U.S. In some states, an eating disorder is a qualifying condition for a medical cannabis card. In other states, you may qualify through a related condition like PTSD, depression, or anxiety.
Depending on state laws, state-approved caregivers may be able to access medical cannabis for minors with eating disorders.
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved some cannabis-based medications like dronabinol and nabilone for appetite stimulation, but they are not widely prescribed for eating disorders.
More about eating disorders
Around 9% of the US population, or 28.8 million Americans, will develop an eating disorder in their lifetime.
Eating disorders can be caused by a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors.
To diagnose an eating disorder, your doctor will perform a physical and psychological evaluation.
In extreme cases, eating disorders can be fatal. But with the right treatment, recovery is possible.
Other treatments for eating disorders
Treatment focuses on restoring healthy eating habits, managing mental health, and improving overall well-being.
Traditional therapies
Therapies for eating disorders include:
- Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT): CBT can help change negative thought patterns about food and body image.
- Nutritional counseling: This can guide you toward healthier eating habits.
- Medications: Some antidepressants and antipsychotics may address underlying emotional factors.
Cannabis as part of your treatment plan for eating disorders
Cannabis may help manage some symptoms of eating disorders, but it should be part of a broader treatment plan. If you’re considering medical cannabis, talk to your doctor to see if it’s right for you.
You may be able to qualify for medical cannabis if your state allows it for eating disorders or related health conditions. Contact a professional at Leafwell today to start the process of getting your medical cannabis card.
Frequently asked questions
Find answers to common questions about cannabis for eating disorders.
Can weed help with appetite loss in eating disorders?
Yes. THC in cannabis may help stimulate hunger (physiological) and appetite (psychological), which could help people with anorexia. However, it should be used carefully and under medical supervision.
Can cannabis lead to binge eating?
One study found that most people who use cannabis do not develop binge-eating habits. But more research is needed to understand if cannabis can lead to binge-eating.
What’s the best way to use weed for an eating disorder?
Cannabis can be consumed in various forms, including:
- Smokable flower
- Vaporizers
- Edibles
- Tinctures
The best method for you depends on your personal preferences and medical needs.
Are there cannabinoid-based medications for eating disorders?
Yes, but only for people whose anorexia is caused by chemotherapy or HIV/AIDS treatment.
Dronabinol (Marinol) is an FDA-approved THC-based medication that may help increase hunger and appetite. But it’s not commonly prescribed for eating disorders.
Can CBD help with anorexia?
Because CBD might reduce appetite, high-CBD products are usually not recommended to people with anorexia. However, combining small-to-moderate amounts of CBD with THC may help with anxiety and stress.
