In recent years the epidemic of obesity has become a hot topic in the United States. It has become a huge problem because this has a significant impact on the health of our citizens. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services “35.7% of adults are considered to be obese. More than 6.3% have extreme obesity.” However, recent studies show that it may not fully be the fault of the individuals. The body may be working against itself. This would occur through the reward response of the endocannabinoid system. When this response is dysfunctional, food addiction can be the result.
The Endocannabinoid System and the Reward Response
The two major endocannabinoids that have been extensively studied are N-arachidonoylethanolamine (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG). These are both derivatives of arachidonic acid, which is a lipid transmitter. These endocannabinoids can be made on demand by multiple synthetic pathways. Once they are released they can bind to either the CB1 or CB2 receptors in the body. The CB1 receptors are found in neurons and organs such as the heart and liver. The CB2 receptorsare not as prevalent and are found in the immune system.
One of the main functions of the endocannabinoid system and the CB1 receptor is to maintain energy balance. When the CB1 receptor is activated it causes a person to eat and if it is over stimulated it can lead to over eating. Over activation of the CB1 receptor causes increased food intake and can lead to obesity. This is because it is closely related to the reward system in the mesolimbic system. Basically, the more a person eats the more the reward system is activated leading to wanting to eat more. One important thing to note is that endocannabinoids are at their highest levels in the brain when a person is hungry and at the lowest after a person has eaten.
What is CBD?
Cannabidiol, also known as CBD, is one of 113 different active cannabinoids in Cannabis (marijuana). It can comprise up to 40% of the plant’s total extract and has a different action than THC. CBD is different from THC in that it lacks the psychoactivity (alterations in perception and mood) component and can even combat the psychoactive effects of THC. Also, it does not interfere with psychomotor learning and other physiological functions.
CBD is already being used to treat a severe form of epilepsy. It is taken orally and has shown some efficacy in helping with seizures.
CBD effects on Endocannabinoid System
As I have stated earlier over activation of the CB1 receptor can cause a person to over eat and prolonged activation of the CB1 receptor can lead to obesity. CBD acts as an antagonist of CB1 receptor agonists. Basically, what this means is that CBD prevents binding of things that activate the CB1 receptor. This results in a reduced activation of the CB1 receptor and can lead to less food intake. CBD can also directly bind to the CB1 receptor and stop it from being activated, but this is very rare. CBD also acts as an inverse agonist on the CB1 receptor. All this means is CBD can cause the opposite action of the CB1 receptor (tell a person not to eat). Cannabidiol can decrease the food intake of a person by the inactivation of the CB1 receptor.
Is CBD the answer?
Cannabidiol has been shown to have promising effects on the body and a decrease in weight gain. However, it has not been significantly studied in this capacity and further research needs to be done to determine if this is a possible cure. In the coming years make sure to keep your eyes open for CBD as a treatment for obesity.
Is Cannabis a Possible Cure for Obesity?
