Why Weed Gives You The Munchies

If someone who’s never smoked asked you what getting high is like, what would you tell them about? Chances are you’d tell them about “the munchies”.

Like, ever notice how getting high makes you really hungry? Like, so hungry that a whole pizza couldn’t stand up to you? There are even some users that say they don’t even feel hungry until after they consume cannabis.

But just what is at play here? Why does weed make you hungry? Today, Chronic Haze gets to the bottom of this mystery.

The Science

Researchers have determined that THC is the chemical responsible for increased appetite. As for why, there are a couple of theories.

Firstly, a 2014 study found that mice administered with THC exhibited increased appetite and a more sensitive sense of smell. After engineering some mice to lack certain cannabinoid receptors, the researchers found that the mice did not exhibit these changes. They deduced that experiencing the munchies was dependent on the olfactory cortex, making subjects more sensitive to taste and smell.

Furthermore, another study found that THC interacts with the hypothalamus. This interaction causes the release of ghrelin from the stomach, which produces feelings of hunger.

Overall, it seems experiencing the munchies involves the weed “tricking” your body and brain. Of course, this isn’t a bad thing. Cannabis’ ability to trigger the munchies is why it’s used in the treatment of eating disorders, as well as chemotherapy patients.

On top of that, it’s been suggested that cannabis regulates energy use. In this case, it’s speculated that it allows users to burn through food and energy quicker. Of course, this doesn’t mean you should be eating massive meals every day. However, it just goes to show how many of the effects of cannabis are beneficial to users.

The Technique

So how should you go about smoking? Are you trying to avoid getting the munchies? Or are you trying to make your next meal more enjoyable? Whatever the case, you’d best pick a strain that fits your scenario. What you smoke can have a real impact on your experience with the munchies.

If you’re trying to avoid the munchies, stick to a sativa or sativa-dominant. Sativas typically contain a higher amount of THCV. This cannabinoid can actually suppress one’s appetite, dodging a run-in with the munchies. Something like our Purple Haze would help; its moderate THC level is just what you need to get that burst of inspiration without the lag.

And if you want to have the munchies? You guessed it. Indicas are the way to go. If you’re looking for a strain to reap these benefits, our new strain Pink Tar may be just what you need. It’s a full-on indica with a respectable THC level, leaving you relaxed and ready to gorge yourself.

But what about edibles, you ask? Compulsive eating of edibles isn’t something we’d recommend, unless you’re a high-tolerance OG. If you’re dead set on it, try some gummies. These Westcoast Teddies by Mary’s would do the trick. Being indica gummies with a lower THC cap and even THC to CBD ratio, they’d be perfect for snacking on as you get your fix.

Wanna Learn More?

Did you find this enlightening? What’s your favourite thing to eat when you get the munchies? Whatever it is, Chronic Haze hopes to get you to that feeling quicker. We carry a wide selection of stellar cannabis products, and offer same-day delivery and curbside pickup in certain Ontario locations. If you’re looking for amazing deals on amazing cannabis products, check out our selection today!

Also, if you’re looking for some more recommendations on edibles, check out this blog post for three edibles to bring to your Halloween party!