Can Cannabis Help You Lose Weight? New Study Says Yes
Could your next weight loss breakthrough come not from the gym, but from a tiny cannabis-infused strip? A new placebo-controlled study led by Dr. Gregory Smith suggests that a combination of two cannabinoids—THCV and CBD—might offer real metabolic benefits. Over a 90-day period, participants who took a daily mucoadhesive strip containing these compounds experienced significant weight loss, reduced waistlines, lower blood pressure, and improved cholesterol levels—all without changing their diet or exercise routines.
The study involved 44 adults with an average age of 52, split into groups receiving either a placebo, a lower dose of THCV and CBD (8 mg/10 mg), or a higher dose (16 mg/20 mg). The results were compelling. About 67% of the low-dose group lost an average of 5.7 pounds, while 70% of the high-dose group lost an average of 9 pounds. Meanwhile, the placebo group lost virtually no weight. Even more impressive, reductions in waist circumference and LDL cholesterol were also observed, suggesting improvements not just in body weight but in overall metabolic health.
What makes these findings particularly exciting is that participants weren’t asked to modify their diets or exercise more—they simply took the cannabinoid-infused strips once a day on an empty stomach. This reinforces the potential of THCV and CBD to support weight loss by acting directly on metabolic pathways, rather than relying solely on calorie restriction or increased activity.
The science behind this is fascinating. THCV acts as a neutral antagonist of the CB1 receptor, a key player in regulating appetite and fat storage. CBD complements this effect by reducing inflammation and modulating the same receptor through different mechanisms. Together, they may help the body burn fat more efficiently and reduce the chronic inflammation that contributes to metabolic syndrome—a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke.
However, there’s a catch. Despite the promising outcomes, the study’s small sample size means we should interpret the results cautiously. Larger, more diverse studies are needed to confirm the long-term safety and effectiveness of this cannabinoid combination. Another practical concern? Participants using the higher-dose strips tested positive for THC on standard urine drug tests, even though the strips contained no detectable THC. This suggests that THCV metabolites might trigger false positives, which could have implications for anyone subject to drug screening.
This research aligns with a growing body of evidence that cannabis compounds can play a meaningful role in metabolic health. Other studies have found that regular cannabis users are less likely to be obese and more likely to engage in physical activity than non-users. Cannabinoids like CBG have also shown potential in supporting metabolic health by increasing the body’s fat-burning capabilities and reducing appetite.
While we’re still in the early stages of understanding how these compounds can be used therapeutically, the potential is clear. For those struggling with weight management and metabolic issues, cannabinoid-based therapies may one day become a powerful addition to the health and wellness toolkit. As always, moderation and consultation with healthcare providers are key, but the future of weight loss might just be greener than we ever imagined.
