Cannabis and the munchies are an iconic duo, but have you ever wondered why? The munchies will vary in intensity depending on your cannabis strain and method of consumption but there are other factors that induce the munchies.
1) Ghrelin
Ghrelin is one of the hormones found in the human body. It is often referred to as the “hunger hormone” and high levels of ghrelin lead to an increase in appetite and food intake. THC has been found to stimulate the release of the ghrelin hormone, which in turn increases your appetite.
2) The Hypothalamus
This is a part of your brain that controls certain functions and links the nervous system to the endocrine system through the pituitary gland. One of the functions it controls is appetite. When cannabis is consumed, the THC binds to local receptors and can increase cravings for food.
3) Dopamine
Dopamine is a chemical that acts as a neurotransmitter, carrying signals between your brain cells. Acute exposure to THC has been said to cause an increased dopamine release. This surge of dopamine increases the pleasure we get from activities like eating.
4) Smell
The sense of smell and taste are closely tied. Cannabis consumption increases your sense of smell which makes the aromas of food more appetizing. This increase in smell also makes food taste better.
One thing to keep in mind is that the munchies will arrive differently when consuming cannabis via smoking as compared to eating edibles. And while you may think the munchies will cause an increase in weight, studies have found a slight weight loss over time in steady cannabis users! Makes you think, doesn’t it?