The Munchies
We will explore the most famous myths, as well as provide techniques and tips so that the slump is not a problem in your life.
What is munchies?
We will begin by unraveling the term, from its Anglo-Saxon origin as “Munchies” to its roots in Latin America as the “Bajón”. This phenomenon is defined as the inordinate increase in hunger after consuming cannabis, a connection that dates back to 300 BC according to historical sources.
The Endocannabinoid System and Hunger
Discussing the biological need for hunger, we will explore how the endocannabinoid system, that favorite system of all, regulates biological functions, including appetite. We will discover how THC, the “funny” molecule in cannabis, binds to CB1 receptors, located in different parts of the body, triggering increased hunger. A curious study from 1994 will teach us that the method of consumption can influence the intensity of the comedown, even mentioning pot suppositories.
Hormones and the Role of the Hypothalamus
Diving deeper, we will address the crucial role of the hypothalamus and the hormones ghrelin and leptin. Ghrelin, known as the “hunger hormone,” is released into the blood after consumption, increasing appetite, while THC reduces leptin levels, suppressing the feeling of fullness. We will discuss how the comedown depends on factors such as the method of consumption, tolerance and potency of the substance.
Therapeutic Uses of Munchies
Beyond the wolverine jokes, we will explore the therapeutic uses of bajon. From helping patients with post-chemotherapy nausea to those with weight loss due to HIV or anorexia nervosa, the comedown is revealed as a valuable medicinal attribute of cannabis.
How to curb munchies while smoking
Munchies may be a consequence of smoking, but they are not a prerequisite. There are several ways to put an end to these cravings during your smokes:
Keep busy
Here we can fall back on another useful saying: “laziness is the mother of all vices”. You smoke, sit down and watch an ad for chicken wings on TV. Soon after, you're placing an order for fried chicken delivery, all for yourself. To make matters a little worse, you throw in a few beers and a tub of ice cream. To avoid a wild night out, try to keep busy. Watch a documentary. Learn something new. Write in your journal. Get some exercise. Meditate. Listen to music. Do anything that isn't minimally related to junk food, and you'll thank yourself later.
Brush your teeth
Some foods leave a good taste in your mouth for a long time. For example, a plate of pasta Bolognese with mushrooms and garlic. Or a piece of a tasty and creamy chocolate cake. There is no doubt that if you smoke with these lingering flavors on your palate, you will instantly crave for more. But you know what can kill these flavors right away? A dab of refreshing mint-flavored toothpaste. Rinse with a little water and brush your teeth before lighting up a joint. It's very difficult to crave food with a strong minty taste in your mouth. This should get rid of it for the next few hours.
Stay hydrated
Sometimes our mind can play tricks on us, especially when we're in the middle of a psychotropic trip. Dehydration and thirst can make us think we need to eat. So, we take action by reaching for a chocolate chip cookie. Hours pass, and the package of cookies you opened is now practically empty. Save yourself this situation by staying hydrated. If you feel like eating something, drink a glass of water. This should satiate you for quite a while. Drinking water is also a good way to combat annoying dry mouth.
How to fight the munchies after smoking
You're spending Friday night smoking nonstop and vegging out in front of the TV, but you're starting to get really hungry, more and more. Don't worry, you're doing great and it's not time to give in. There's still time to avoid a full-blown munchie attack.
Get some exercise
We've talked about this briefly already, but it bears repeating. Exercise might be one of the most productive activities you can practice while you're high. And some varieties can help you with it. In fact, some athletes prefer to train under the influence of their favorite herb. And, at least according to some testimonials, THC can make workouts more enjoyable. Do your research and choose strains that pair well with physical exercise. But don't do anything too extreme while you're functionally limited. Hit a punching bag? Yes. Rock climbing? Probably not a good idea.
Try CBD oil
You know what else can prevent munchies after smoking? A good CBD oil. If you're about to suffer a bout of those cravings, you can always turn to THC's non-psychotropic cousin to curb them. Studies have highlighted CBD's potential to modulate the psychotropic effects of THC[2]. That, of course, includes munchies. So, the next time you feel like succumbing to fast food after a night of smoking, reach for the bottle of CBD oil. You'll feel so much better about yourself in the morning.
Go to bed
Here's the situation: you're about to return from your THC-fueled interstellar trip. You're on the couch in a horizontal position, in the living room. The kitchen is a few steps to your right. You see a box of donuts on the counter - are you going to give up? Of course not! But the best recourse is to get away from that room. Get up and go straight to your room. Don't even look at that little package full of refined sugar and remorse. Pretend it's not there or that you didn't see it.
When you get to your room, pat yourself on the back for your hard work. It takes a lot of willpower to say no to a craving, but you've done it.
What to do if you can't beat the munchies
Regardless of how much willpower you have, sometimes the munchies beat you. Even Superman has his kryptonite. But as we've said before, the potential problem is not in the act of eating, but in what you eat. We hope we have helped you with this post to control those pesky munchies! Good luck!
