Consuming marijuana has a reputation for giving you the munchies, which may be beneficial for some. When you are on a mission to get your weight under control, the last thing you want is to feel like you could eat your entire house.

Not every cannabis strain stimulates appetite. You can still use it on a regular basis and it can have the complete opposite effect. Both cannabinoids and terpenes play a significant role in how cannabis can make you feel. Furthermore, smoking marijuana has been linked to faster metabolisms in some people.

While cannabis can be helpful, I am not claiming that weight loss will be because of the use of cannabis. The key to successful weight loss is mindful nutrition and movement/working out. I encourage both while incorporating cannabis. It is to be used as a support system for your mind and body and to be used with intention.

I’m going to share potential benefits as well as tips on how to incorporate cannabis into your fitness routine.

Boosts Energy     

Wait, what? It doesn’t completely couch lock you? NO! The cannabis plant is so complex.

You have to consider the strain, terpenes, and cannabinoids present and what works for your body’s chemistry. Furthermore, cannabis has been known to boost energy and provide you with the ability to power through your workouts. Specifically sativa strains are known for their uplifting and energizing effects. Making them a popular choice for pre-workout supplements. It can make you feel motivated, and can even enhance your focus in the gym, for the ultimate mind-muscle connection.

Reduces Inflammation

Cannabis has anti-inflammatory properties that can reduce inflammation in the body. This can be especially useful for athletes who experience inflammation and soreness after a workout. CBD, a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis, has been show to effectively treat inflammation. Terpenes can help reduce inflammation symptoms, such as myrcene, pinene and linalool.

Reduces Pain   

It’s no surprise that cannabis has been used as an effective pain reliever for thousands of years. THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, can help reduce pain by binding to cells in the body that are responsible for pain.

CBD has been shown to have natural pain-relieving properties as well. Unlike many prescription pills, which can be addictive and come with a hell of a lot of side effects such as upset stomach, dizziness, nausea, and can potentially be addictive. Long-term use of these medications can also cause liver and kidney damage.

Cannabis can be a healthier option for pain relief because of its natural properties and fewer side effects.

It is important to speak with a medical professional before using cannabis as a pain relief as it can interact with other medications and may not be suitable for everyone.

Enhances Recovery         

The compounds found in cannabis can also speed up the recovery process after a strenuous workout.

Specifically, CBD has been shown to aid in muscle recovery by reducing inflammation and promoting the growth of new cells. This can help reduce downtime needed between workouts. Cannabis can also help you unwind and relax after a workout, which can be helpful if you feel tense or stressed. This helps reduce muscle tension and promotes faster recovery.

Cannabis can also help improve sleep quality which is essential for recovery. Poor sleep can affect your body’s ability to repair and rebuild muscle tissue. So, getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for your overall fitness and health goals.

Reduce Anxiety                 

Cannabis has been shown to have a positive effect on anxiety levels by calming the mind and reducing stress. This can be super useful for those who experience pre-workout out jitters.

It can help calm your overactive mind and allow you to focus on your workout with ease. Cannabis interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system to ease anxiety and stress. However, if dosed improperly, can have adverse effects and cause more anxiety. It’s important to start slow and learn about which terpenes are effective to your body’s chemistry.

Tips on how to incorporate cannabis into your routine

Start off slow.

If you are new or just easing back into cannabis usage, start with a strain lower in THC and higher in CBD. You could even just start with CBD and go from there. Start with microdoses, small hits before diving in full force, bong rips before the gym. If you prefer edibles, perhaps start with a 2:1 CBD/THC edible. It will take the edge off and pre-gym anxiety away and still give you the energy and focus to power through your workout.

Daily CBD usage.

CBD has been shown to promote weight loss, along with so many other benefits. CBD products containing no THC and are the purest form of cannabinoid available. Some options are tinctures as they are fast-acting, edibles, CBD syrups, flower, vaporizers, and concentrates.

I recommend starting your day with a high-CBD, low-THC sativa strain, That way, you’ll tackle your appetite first thing in the morning, potentially feeling less hungry throughout the day.

Keep notes of the strains you are using.

Knowing what strain works for is so helpful. You can narrow down which terpenes are effective to your workouts and overall goals.

Work out at the same time every day.

That way you can utilize the correct strain and it won’t impact your entire day. For example, if you work out in the morning, using a strain with 1:1 thc/cbd will produce an uplifting and energizing effect.

Maybe you strength train in the evening or afternoon, I would recommend a strain to ease your muscles enough to power through a workout and relax them enough to unwind after it’s done.

Read your body signals.

If you are feeling uneasy, take a seat and slow down. Make sure you are eating before smoking or consuming cannabis if you are sensitive to the plant. Stay hydrated and make sure you are drinking plenty of water. Check your surroundings and the people around you, if any. Do what you are comfortable with.

Find strains with higher concentrations of THCV and lower in THC.

Higher levels of THC can tend to lead to the munchies and increased hunger.

Some studies have shown THCV to have energetic and appetite-suppressing properties. Higher levels of THC have also been linked to anxiety so take it easy at first.

Look for strains with higher appetite-suppressing terpenes such as Humulene, Ocimene, and Limonene. These have been shown to wort off a case of the munchies.

Consume with intention.

When you are mindlessly smoking just to get “high” it takes away from the experience you could potentially endeavor. Before you consume ask yourself why and how is it helping for the task you are conquering, whether it be, relaxing, pleasure, focus or sleep, have a REASON.

In conclusion, cannabis can be an effective tool to add to your workout routine. It has anti-inflammatory properties, boosts energy levels, reduces pain, enhances recovery, and reduces anxiety.

However, it is important to note that cannabis affects everyone differently and it is important to talk to your healthcare provider before incorporating cannabis into your routine. Most of all, HAVE FUN! Fitness should be fun, and working out shouldn’t have to be a chore. Enjoying your daily routine while is essential for a healthy mind and body.

 Iron And Herb

*Disclaimer: I am not a medical professional or cannabis expert. Please consult your doctor before ingesting, smoking, or vaping cannabis if you have never consumed it. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant, nursing, or at risk of serious health conditions including but not limited to: heart disease, high blood pressure, and respiratory illness or taking any medication for asthma. Cannabis products are intended for use only by adults 21 or older. For lawful use only. Cannabis is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.