There are calories in everything that people eat and drink, even cannabis. But when you use marijuana, it’s easy to avoid consuming too many calories. Users can reap the health benefits of cannabis without consuming any calories by smoking or vaping it.
On the other hand, consuming cannabis extracts combined with sweet baked goods is sure to provide some calories. Another problem is that THC causes the release of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger, which may lead to people having the munchies—eating when high.
Fortunately, cannabis users can lead healthy lives by combining a balanced cannabis regimen with a nutritious diet, frequent exercise, and enough sleep.
What Is the Caloric Content of Cannabis?
Despite the lack of well-studied precise calorie counts for the cannabis plant, the calorie content of hemp provides some reliable approximations. For every gram of cannabis, there are probably about two calories. Therefore, 203 calories approximately make up 100 grams. But most people either smoke, vape, or consume cannabis-infused food and drink instead of consuming it raw.
Edible brownies, gummies, and cookies can pack a lot of calories, depending on the recipe. For example, a brownie that has been infused with marijuana might contain exactly the same amount of calories as a regular brownie.
Does Smoking Cannabis Have Any Calories?
You might be shocked to hear that smoking marijuana does increase your daily calorie intake by one. However, bear in mind that high THC strains can enhance appetite, leading to weight gain if the user consistently overindulges while elevated.
The psychoactive cannabinoid in marijuana that gives people “the munchies,” THC, is what we previously discussed. THC elevates our senses of taste and smell, increases dopamine, and increases the hunger hormone ghrelin. This increases the pleasure of indulging.
Contrary research indicates that marijuana users typically have lower body mass indices, despite the clear science supporting the munchies. Furthermore, eating does not appear to be impacted by low dosages of marijuana in any way.
According to research, smoking marijuana raises metabolic rates, which leads to an increase in resting-state calorie expenditure. For those who are mindful of reducing or maintaining their calorie intake, smoking cannabis occasionally can be a useful option.
How Many Calories Are in Edibles?
Edibles’ calorie content is entirely dependent on the sugar, fat, salt, and carbohydrates that go into making them rather than the marijuana itself. The amount of calories in a recipe varies significantly based on serving size and recipe. Additionally, there are a ton of calorie-efficient vegan or sugar-free edible options available that are less expensive than traditional treats.
Prior to eating cannabis edibles, it is advisable to read the nutrition labels. An average serving size can range from 50 to 200 calories, depending on the recipe. A weed gummy made with fruit juice and natural sweeteners will have fewer calories than a brownie made with butter and sugar. A single gummy bear typically contains 20 calories.
The Conclusion
Cannabis contains incredibly few calories. The method of consumption determines how many calories you consume.
While occasionally indulging in an edible won’t likely have a significant impact on your weight, regularly consuming high-THC products may increase your likelihood of experiencing the munchies. Other lifestyle choices, such as diet and exercise, can also have a significant impact on an individual’s weight gain or loss.
According to research, the majority of cannabis users smoke less than the typical non-smoker. Maintaining an active lifestyle while tracking your THC intake is a simple way to stay well.
