Cannabis And Its Derivatives: A Potential Tool For Obesity Management?

A recent study titled "Effect of Cannabis and Subproducts on Anthropometric Measures: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis" published in the International Journal of Obesity, explored the impact of cannabis and its derivatives on anthropometric measures in obese adults.

The study involved 27 selected trials comprising 4,394 participants from various countries, including France, the UK, the US, Canada, Argentina and others.

As first reported by News Medical Life Sciences, cannabis derivatives, such as rimonabant, hemp oil, cannabidiol, caryophyllene, and tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), demonstrated promise in reducing body weight, body mass index (BMI), and waist circumference.

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Participants using these cannabis products experienced an average weight reduction of 1.87 kg and a 2 cm decrease in waist circumference. However, the impact on BMI was marginal, and body fat increased by 0.58%. Notably, longer follow-up periods were associated with more significant reductions in BMI.

Sub-group analyses highlighted that participants using cannabinoid receptor 2 (CB2) antagonist/agonist achieved a greater weight reduction, while those using cannabinoid receptor 1 (CB1) antagonist/agonist saw a notable decrease in both BMI and waist circumference. The CB1 receptor is known to be involved in appetite regulation and energy balance, while CB2 receptors play a role in immune and metabolic functions.

It's worth noting that cannabis oil resulted in only a minimal reduction in body fat, while other products, especially CB1 antagonist/agonist, increased body fat.

The study suggested that "cannabis and subproducts could be considered adjuncts in obesity treatment by helping to reduce relevant anthropometric measurements."

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Image by Diana Polekhina On Unsplash