Most people are familiar with the two most prominent cannabinoids in cannabis: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). 

Far fewer people know about cannabigerol (CBG), another natural cannabinoid abundant in juvenile hemp flowers.

In this article, you’ll learn what CBG is and what effect it has on your desire to eat, according to the most current research.

Note: No clinical trials have ever been published on CBG, so the information contained below is merely theoretical based on the evidence currently available through scientific study.  

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First Of All, What Is CBG?

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a phytocannabinoid, meaning it’s a naturally occurring cannabinoid in cannabis plants. 

It’s commonly referred to as the “mother of all cannabinoids” because it’s one of the first cannabinoids to appear as the plant develops. CBG later breaks down into other common cannabinoids as the plants mature, including delta 9 THC (commonly just called “THC”), CBD, CBC, and others.

How Does CBG Interact With the Body?

Like most cannabinoids, CBG interacts with the body via a signaling system called ECS (endocannabinoid system), a series of receptors to which cannabinoids bind to and alter in different ways.

Specifically, we all have CB1 and CB2 receptors in our endocannabinoid systems, and CBG is known to bind directly to both. 

Does CBG Affect Our Desire to Eat?

Yes, anecdotal reports suggest CBG is not like many other cannabinoids and does not cause the “munchies,” and tends to cause the user to have less desire to eat while under the influence. Preliminary scientific research involving animals supports this hypothesis. The FDA has not approved the use of CBG for appetite.

Because of this, many people wonder if CBG could help with their diet program. There are no conclusive studies linking any cannabinoid with weight loss. Many experts theorize how compounds like CBG could be useful in a well-orchestrated, holistic lifestyle. Diet and exercise are the most important variables when it comes to weight loss. Unfortunately, cannabinoids are not a quick fix.

If you’re looking to lose weight, here are the factors associated with weight loss:

1. Lipogenesis

Lipogenesis is the process by which our bodies store excess energy as fat. When we consume more calories than our bodies need to function, the surplus is converted into fat and stored in adipose tissue throughout the body for later consumption if caloric intake decreases.

2. Metabolism

Metabolism refers to our capacity to convert stored energy in the form of sugars and fats into useable cellular energy such as ATP. Increasing metabolism through diet, exercise, and supplementation is one method medical professionals use to help patients lose weight.

3. Stress & Cortisol

There has long been a correlation between stress levels and obesity or weight gain. Stress tends to cause people to turn to food for comfort and might even lead an otherwise healthy individual to turn to fatty or unhealthy foods to relieve some of the stress.

Wrapping Up: CBG & Food

Cannabigerol (CBG) is a naturally occurring cannabinoid that appears primarily in young cannabis plants. It eventually breaks down to form THC, CBD, and other common cannabinoids in mature marijuana and hemp plants.

CBG is believed to not cause the “munchies,” or the desire to snack. In fact, it might take your mind off of food for a little bit — this goes in direct opposition to the classic experience of taking other cannabinoids. Even so, if you’re looking to lose weight, stick with a lifestyle change for guaranteed results. 

Resources Used:

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