Meet THCV: The Cannabinoid for Appetite Suppression

It is no secret that marijuana offers therapeutic benefits when used the right way. With that said, the use of medical marijuana has dramatically increased since, and the two most common ones are CBD and
THC. Medical marijuana is known to reduce anxiety, good respiratory health, and ease pain to name a few. However, THC is known to cause the “munchies” or increase the feeling of hunger, which is frowned upon by cannabis users wanting to lose weight. Fear not, meet THCV, a less popular cannabinoid that has appetite suppressing qualities perfect for cannabis enthusiasts wanting to lose or maintain a certain weight.

What is THCV?

THCV, short for
Tetrahydrocannabivarin is a homologue of THC that has different effects due to a propyl (3-carbon) side chain. THC has a pentyl (5-carbon) group on the molecule. The primary effect of THCV is to suppress appetite, making the user crave for food less.

This cannabinoid is often found in very Sativa dominant strains. THCV has shown to cause a quick onset psychedelic effect or feelings of euphoria, but wears off rather quickly compared to THC.

You can find THCV in these cannabis strains:

• Girl Scout Cookies
• Cherry Pie
• Face Off OG
• Jack the Ripper Doug’s Varin
• Pineapple Purps

Read more:
THCV Strains

Can THCV get you high?

Just like THC, it can get you high, but only when consumed in significantly high doses. Some more potent strains produce psychoactive effects that are stimulating, euphoric and eases brain fog or mental clarity.

How does THCV suppress appetite?

According to various studies,
THCV may help in weight loss and promote wellness in general. THCV interacts with our endocannabinoid system (ECS), the molecular system of receptors and metabolic enzymes that cannabinoids interact with the human body and trigger health benefits.

The ECS consists of two main types of receptors, CB1 and CB2. The more popular THC activates the CB1 receptor, which prompts the release of hunger-promoting hormones. On the other hand, THCV does the opposite, blocking the CB1 receptor and suppressing appetite, making you eat less and lose weight.

Who Should Avoid THCV?

THCV is recognized to have potential health benefits, but not everyone can consume it, especially if there are existing medical conditions. It is best to consult your doctor if you have underlying medical issues before consuming THCV.

People With Appetite Loss or Eating Disorder

It is best to note that a major side effect of THCV can either help or hurt the appetite suppression. THCV may work well for someone trying to lose weight, it may be dangerous for people with appetite loss or suffering from any type of eating disorder.

People with Insomnia or Sleeping Issues

In addition, consuming high amounts of THCV to help you sleep may not work too well for you either. Since THCV tends to promote energy and euphoria, it can make it more difficult for certain consumers to get a good night’s sleep.

Related: THCV Benefits

How Efficient is THCV for Weight Loss?

Several studies claim that cannabis can actually help in weight loss and suppressing appetite.

THCV lowers the CB1 receptor’s activities, but can activate it if you take it in significantly higher doses. According to a 2018 cannabis study, a decrease in the activation of these receptors is associated with a healthier weight.

Have you heard of the stereotype that cannabis users are skinny? The reason behind this is marijuana burns calories in the body. This claim is backed by a 2016 study published in
Springer’s Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry Journal which concluded that the use of cannabis and its components help convert bad fats into good fats, which helps in burning calories.

It is true that THCV has appetite suppressing properties, but it will be more effective if the user pairs it with proper diet and exercise for a more sustainable weight management.

Is THCV right for you?

The weight suppressing quality of THCV is proved by numerous claims, and it can help in kickstarting good eating habits. Albeit less popular than THC and CBD, THCV might be the next big thing in the fitness and wellness industry due to its energy-boosting and appetite-suppressing qualities. The bonus part, THCV is completely safe when taken in the right doses.

With all the weight loss supplements out there, it may be hard to distinguish which one is safe. THCV may be a good appetite suppressing supplement that is heavily studied by experts in the field. As mentioned and with emphasis, it’s not like a cure-all miracle drug that takes all of your weight loss woes away fast. A rule of thumb, always consult your doctor if you have underlying medical conditions before taking any supplement.

Along with THCV, a healthier shift in your lifestyle, good eating habits and daily exercise would surely make a difference in your weight loss journey.

Ready to get your hands on THCV? Shop FreshBros’ THCV Distillate today!