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Every cannabis enthusiast will certainly have experienced it one or more times. The infamous craving, or 'munchies', that occurs during and after smoking weed with THC. For some, this effect is not necessarily detrimental, and for many medicinal users it is an important plus. However, it can also be an unpleasant side effect for some cannabis users, which is best avoided, or at least better controlled. In this blog we explain why you can get such a craving after using weed, and what you can do about it.

Hungry due to cannabis, how?

Weed consists of a lot of different molecules, each with its own function. The answer to the question 'why does weed make you crave?' must therefore be found in one of these molecules that has a well-known reputation. The psychoactive substance THC is the main cause of this. Scientific research has been conducted into the effects of cannabis, including the well-known phenomenon of 'food cravings'. One conclusion is that THC affects the CB1 receptors of the endocannabinoid system, and these receptors are responsible, among other things, for stimulating cravings.

Preventive approach to prevent binge eating

Once your brain gets under the influence of the munchies, it is very difficult not to give in. It might also be easier to prevent those munchies from arriving altogether. A good way to avoid a binge is to make sure you have eaten a lot before you start with your first joint. This way you already feel satisfied, and there will be less room for new cravings. It is also a good measure not to have snacks and other delicacies in the house. If you know you don't have anything to satisfy your bad cravings, you don't have to get into an argument with yourself that is doomed to failure.

Another thing that is definitely worth doing is different ones cannabis strains trying out. For example, try a strain with a lower THC content, as that is the substance believed to be responsible for cravings. In addition, different species often contain a very different chemical profile in terms of cannabinoids and terpenes. These can also have other effects.

How do you reduce the effects of a binge?

If it's too late and you really can't control your hunger anymore, there are some tricks you can try. One of these things is brushing your teeth. This ensures a somewhat neutral taste in your mouth, making it easier to get over the binge than if you still have all kinds of tasty flavors from previous food in your mouth.

It can also help to drink enough water if you suffer from munchies. This leaves less empty space in your stomach, which can suppress the need to eat. In addition, it is important to keep busy with something if you want to control that nagging voice about eating. For example, get moving, pick up a musical instrument or play a board game.

Interestingly enough, another great tool also comes from cannabis, namely: CBD. This is the non-psychoactive substance that is commonly found in cannabis. According to some studies, CBD may counteract the psychotropic effects of THC, including that infamous food craving. Definitely worth a try!