How to Stop the Munchies

Has cannabis ever caused the munchies to overcome you? What did you think of that feeling? If you enjoyed it, then keep doing you my friend! However, if the munchies are something that makes you want to steer clear of cannabis, this is the read for you. Both CBD and THC from cannabis can stimulate one’s appetite, for the better or the worse. For some people, this can help them tremendously when they are unable to eat due to various reasons, but for others, this can be a pretty negative side effect of using cannabis.

Some people may find that THC increases their appetite more than CBD (stay tuned for more information on why THC makes you hungry), but they have both been found to produce this feeling. Many people are trying to live a healthy lifestyle, which includes good eating habits, so having the munchies can certainly throw that off. Extra calories can mean weight gain, and, if you’re raiding the pantry at night, it can also lead to heartburn, indigestion, and interrupted sleep. So, here are some tips and tricks to putting a stop to the munchies:

1. Eat and drink enough during the day
   • Although it may sound like silly advice, many cannabis users admit that they often fail to eat properly leading up to the main event, or consuming cannabis. For those who like to use cannabis at nighttime, it is important to make sure you eat enough meals, and even snacks, during the day to keep yourself full and avoid the munchies. If consuming infused edibles is part of your meal plan for the day, be sure to not go overboard. Instead of doing something like a brownie or sweet treat, try using cannabis cooking oil as a healthier dish option. It is also really important to make sure that you are staying hydrated during the day. If you feel the munchies coming on, try drinking water first and see what happens as it may help to alleviate the feeling.
2. Consume vegetables in your meals or as snacks
   • Vegetables are a food group that really fill you up as they are loaded with fiber and tend to move through your digestive system slower than other food groups. Eating vegetables throughout the day or before you indulge in cannabis can help to keep your stomach feeling full and keep the munchies away.
3. Keep yourself busy
   • Keeping yourself busy and distracted is a great way to avoid the munchies. It’s totally normal to let your mind wander while you’re high, but if you start thinking about the cannabis munchies, turn your brain onto something else. Try to train yourself to pivot to another activity when the thought of eating comes to mind. You can literally do any sort of activity that will keep your mind focused on it and off of the thought of wanting to eat. Typical activities that people like to do can include playing video games, coloring, getting chores done around the house, or a favorite “go-to” activity.
4. Eliminate temptations
   • If you know that you are prone to the munchies, it might be a good idea to get rid of all the junk foods that you may crave and replace them with healthy options. This way, if you do give in and reach for a snack, it’s at least something healthy and good for you rather than something high in calories and sugars. It is important to create a situation for yourself where the temptation is eliminated.
5. Get the taste out of your mouth
   • Some people like the taste of weed and some don’t. Whatever, it’s not important. But hey, even the best flavor can start to taste gross when it’s been sitting in your mouth for a while. A lot of the time, this is why we start eating: To get the taste of cannabis out of our mouths. You may find yourself appreciating toothpaste and mouthwash when it comes to this. Not only will you enjoy the minty freshness, it can help you forget the thought of snacking. Have you ever eaten or drank something after brushing your teeth? It generally tastes weird and pretty awful. So in this case, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and some mouthwash can be your best friend.
6. Try out THCv
   • THCv is a different form of THC that is not psychoactive on its own, and has been found to act more as an appetite suppressant rather than a stimulant. Research has shown that strains high in THCv have the ability to block the reward sensation in the brain which triggers overeating. This side effect is great news for consumers looking to maintain or lose weight while still consuming cannabis.
7. If all else fails, use the munchies to your advantage
   • Finally, if you can’t beat your cannabis munchies, make them work for you! Say you’re not a big fan of leafy greens like spinach or kale that are quite beneficial for your health. Wait until you’ve taken hits or the gummy kicks in, then whip up, say, a sautéed spinach frittata. You’ll probably find it to be way more delicious while elevated, and your body will be very thankful for the addition of leafy greens to your diet.