"Current cannabis use was associated with lower BMI in analyses stratified by women and men. People who'd used cannabis within the past month were 31% less likely to be obese than non-users, after adjustment,” the study says
The relationship between cannabis use and weight management for African American women represents an emerging area when researching obesity and cannabis. While cannabis appears to have some beneficial effects on metabolism that could counteract aspects of ultra-processed food consumption, research specifically focused on this demographic remains insufficient.
Despite the well-known phenomenon of “the munchies,” epidemiological studies have consistently found that regular cannabis users have lower BMIs, smaller waist circumferences, and lower rates of obesity compared to non-users. This paradox may be particularly relevant for African American women. The potential benefits must be weighed against legal concerns, possible adverse effects, and the need for comprehensive approaches to addressing obesity. Most importantly, cannabis should not distract from addressing the fundamental social determinants of health that contribute to obesity disparities, including food apartheid, economic inequality, and healthcare access.
Recent studies have begun examining specific applications that may be relevant to African American women:
- CB1 Receptor Modulation: Selective compounds that modulate cannabinoid receptor activity without psychoactive effects show promise for metabolic health.
- Microbiome Interactions: Cannabis appears to influence gut bacteria composition, which plays a key role in metabolism and may be disrupted by ultra-processed foods.
- Hormonal Interactions: Preliminary research suggests cannabis may affect estrogen metabolism, potentially impacting weight distribution patterns in women.
As legal barriers to research diminish, more targeted studies may reveal specific recommendations for this demographic group.
For African American women considering cannabis for weight management:
- Strain Selection: Strains higher in THCV and CBD rather than THC may provide more beneficial metabolic effects.
- Consumption Timing: Using cannabis after, rather than before, meals may help prevent appetite stimulation.
- Holistic Approach: Cannabis should be considered as one component of a comprehensive approach that includes improved food access, stress management, and physical activity.
- Healthcare Communication: Open discussions with healthcare providers about cannabis use can help monitor for both beneficial and adverse effects.
- Health Disparities Context: Cannabis should not be viewed as a substitute for addressing the systemic inequities that contribute to higher obesity rates in this population.
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