Cannabis is a new hope in the treatment of obesity

Plant substances have properties to suppress appetite, increase metabolism, improve sleep and have anti-inflammatory effects

Cannabis sativa is already known for its use in treating conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, epilepsy, anxiety, insomnia, ASD, fibromyalgia, cancer and chronic pain. However, recent scientific advances have explored the use of compounds such as CBD, CNB and THCV, all derived from cannabis, to combat obesity.

“Obesity is a chronic, progressive and multifactorial disease, characterized by complex neuroendocrine-metabolic inflammation. The treatment requires a multidisciplinary approach and the use of cannabinoids has generated very positive results,” explains João Carlos Caruso Silveira, researcher and doctor at the Brazilian Association of Doctors with Postgraduate Experience (Abramepo).

A researcher in the fields of obesity and nutrition, the doctor is certified by the WeCann Endocannabinoid Global Academy and recently published an article on new perspectives on the treatment of obesity. He points out that the endocannabinoid system, present in all mammals, plays a crucial role in regulating physiological functions such as appetite, metabolism and fat accumulation.

“The interaction of cannabinoids with the endocannabinoid system has shown promise in the treatment of obesity on several fronts. In Brazil this treatment is considered off-label, but the resolution of CFM allows the use of cannabinoids to treat other diseases,” he comments.

Treatment must be multidisciplinary

Caruso details that recent research highlights THCV (tetrahydrocannabivarin) as an effective appetite suppressant, acting as an antagonist of CB1 receptors, which are often overactivated in people with obesity, resulting in reduced hunger and increased expenditure energetic.

“Several substances found in cannabis are used to treat obesity. CBD, in addition to its anxiolytic effects, can modulate the endocannabinoid system, regulating appetite and metabolism, and has anti-inflammatory properties, helping to improve metabolic health. Cannabinol helps improve sleep, indirectly contributing to appetite control and weight regulation,” he explains.

Legal access

Caruso points out that, unlike CBD, THCV is not produced on a large scale and must be imported with Anvisa’s approval. “It is a more difficult compound to find even abroad,” he comments.

Despite all the benefits, the doctor emphasizes that cannabis should not be seen as the only solution to obesity. “The complexity of the endocannabinoid system and individual variability require personalized approaches, combining the use of cannabinoids with other interventions such as incretin therapies, bariatric surgery and lifestyle changes including balanced diet, regular exercise and psychological support. Obesity is a complex challenge that requires a multidisciplinary and individualized approach, there is no ready formula,” he underlines.

Current panorama

In his article Caruso highlights the complexity of obesity, going beyond the traditional view of an imbalance between calorie intake and energy expenditure, and reveals the alarming costs of the disease. Obesity affects more than 2.3 billion people worldwide, making it one of the largest public health crises of the 21st century. Its consequences include chronic diseases such as type 2 diabetes and hypertension, as well as significant socioeconomic impacts.

Projections indicate that health care costs and disease-related lost productivity could exceed $2.8 trillion annually by 2030, taking into account medical expenses, lost productivity and premature deaths.

“This economic burden, added to the human suffering caused by associated diseases, reinforces the urgency for new therapeutic approaches for the disease. We must abandon preconceptions and address the problem of obesity with the attention and care it deserves,” he concludes.

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Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.