Why does weed cause the munchies?

You’re enjoying a tasty joint or taking a hit from a vaporizer, either alone or with friends. Once you’re properly high, the munchies hit and you reach for a bag of chips or other treats. Before you know it, the whole bag is gone. Afterwards, you regret your binge – but hey, you had the munchies. So where does this sudden craving come from, and can you do anything about it? This blog will tell you more.

Table of Contents

Why does cannabis make you hungry?

Cannabis can interfere with signals in the brain. For example, you might feel hungry even though you’re actually full. The main substance responsible for this is THC – the most important active compound in cannabis. THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the brain – especially the CB1 receptors, which help regulate appetite. Cannabis also enhances smell and taste perception by affecting the bulbus olfactorius (olfactory bulb). As a result, food smells and tastes more intense and pleasant. Suddenly, toast with peanut butter and pickles becomes a gourmet meal. [1][2]

Why do you crave junk food specifically?

Okay, so we know that being high makes everything taste better. And we know it’s hard to tell if we’re really hungry or if it’s just the weed. But the question remains: why do we reach for unhealthy, processed food instead of a healthier alternative?

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See – it can be done differently!

Once again, THC makes things tricky. It activates the brain’s reward system and stimulates the release of dopamine – the neurotransmitter that makes us feel pleasure and reward. Foods high in sugar, fat, and salt give us a quick dopamine boost. Our body craves dopamine – and junk food delivers that sweet hit of satisfaction.

To top it off, THC also lowers activity in the prefrontal cortex – the area responsible for rational thinking and self-control. This makes it even more likely that we’ll open and empty the bag of chips, simply because it’s harder to resist. [3]

Does every strain cause the munchies?

No, not every cannabis strain triggers a food craving. Certain properties determine whether and how strongly the munchies kick in.

Indica vs. Sativa

Indica weed originates from the Hindu Kush mountains in Afghanistan and is recognizable by its short, broad leaves. Indica is known for its relaxing, calming effects and is considered especially appetite-stimulating.

Sativa weed comes from warmer regions and has long, narrow leaves. Sativa is said to be more energizing and creativity-boosting – with less impact on appetite.

These days, most strains are hybrids – crosses between the two types. Looking for a 100% Indica strain? Try our Master Kush from our house brand!

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THC vs. CBD

As mentioned above, THC is a major trigger for hunger. High-THC weed strongly affects appetite. Another important compound is CBD. CBD doesn’t bind directly to CB1 receptors but modulates them – making it harder for THC to bind. In practice, this means the THC-to-CBD ratio plays a big role in whether you get hungry or not. Want to avoid the munchies? Then go for Grapefruit CBD, a clear-headed strain with high CBD content and almost no THC.

Terpenes

Terpenes are aromatic molecules found in many plants – including cannabis. They determine the scent, flavor, and effects of the strain. In addition to high THC levels, the terpene profile can also influence hunger. Strains with lots of myrcene, linalool, limonene or beta-caryophyllene are particularly appetite-stimulating. [4]

Want to learn more about terpenes? Read this blog.

Individual differences

Finally, personal factors play a big role – everyone reacts differently to cannabis:

  • Genetics: Some people have less sensitive cannabinoid receptors.
  • Tolerance: Your body gets used to the compounds and reacts less strongly over time.
  • Diet: Whether you’ve eaten or have nutrient deficiencies affects your response.
  • Mood: Stress, depression, or distraction can suppress hunger.
  • Medications: Some medications influence the endocannabinoid system or appetite.
  • Hormones: Your menstrual cycle and stress hormones can impact hunger.

So cannabis never works the same for everyone – responses can vary significantly from person to person.

What can you do about the munchies?

It can be really hard to resist those tasty snacks – especially when you’re staring at a bag of chips with red, glazed eyes. If you’re trying to stick to a diet, it’s even more frustrating. That’s why we’ve gathered a few tips to help you prepare for the munchies. [5]

7 tips against the munchies

1. Eat at regular times
Sticking to set meal times helps normalize your hunger and fullness cues – and reduces random snacking.

2. Exercise before lighting up
Exercise is good for you and helps balance calorie intake. A cardio session before getting high can help.

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3. Choose healthier snacks
Snacking doesn’t have to be unhealthy. Stock up on smart alternatives like unsalted nuts or baby carrots – you’ll be surprised how good they taste when you’re high.

4. Try a different strain
If you often get hit with food cravings, try switching strains. Our tips above can help you choose the right one.

5. Keep yourself busy
Less temptation through distraction: read a good book, play a game, or get creative. You’ll forget about food in no time.

6. Brush your teeth
Brushing your teeth or using mouthwash after smoking helps refresh your mouth – and the minty taste can reduce the urge to snack.

7. Don’t get high on an empty stomach
Eat something beforehand to prevent later cravings. Also, keep a bottle of water nearby – it helps with dry mouth too.

Are the munchies dangerous?

No, the munchies aren’t dangerous. But over time, they can affect your eating habits, weight, and insulin regulation. A pizza with peanut sauce or popcorn with chocolate spread now and then is fine – as long as you generally take care of your health.

Fun fact: cannabis is also used medically – for example in cases of eating disorders or during treatment. So the fact that weed triggers hunger isn’t always a bad thing.

Sources

  1. Kirkham, T. C. (2009). Cannabinoids and appetite: Food craving and food pleasure. International Review Of Psychiatry, 21(2), 163–171. https://doi.org/10.1080/09540260902782810
  2. News: Why does smoking pot give you the. . . (CNN News) - Behind the headlines - NLM. (n.d.). NCBI. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/search/research-news/8942/
  3. Manipulation Checking the Munchies: Validating Self-Reported Dietary Behaviors during Cannabis Intoxication – ISHE. (n.d.). https://ishe.org/volume-34-2019/manipulation-checking-the-munchies-validating-self-reported-dietary-behaviors-during-cannabis-intoxication/
  4. Kalcheff-Korn, S. (2023, November 21). 5 Terpenes to Boost Your Thanksgiving Appetite. Realm Of Caring Foundation. https://realmofcaring.org/5-terpenes-to-boost-your-thanksgiving-appetite/
  5. Keating, C. (2022, September 30). How to stop the munchies when you’re high. Leafly. https://www.leafly.com/news/lifestyle/how-to-stop-munchies-when-high