Cannabis, for all its medicinal use, is now being studied for its role in energy metabolism and weight management. Recently, researchers have begun to reveal the role cannabis plays in appetite regulation and managing blood sugar levels. Cannabidiol (CBD), delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), and delta-9-tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV) are the major cannabinoids (chemical compound components) derived from hemp. Among all these components, THCV has registered itself as a potent cannabinoid for weight loss.
Of late, the discussions around THCV have been peaking in the fitness and health management circuit. Owing to its distinctive properties and capabilities to manage hunger and facilitate weight loss, it has become the latest object of obsession among people battling weight gain and trying to boost metabolism.
But is THCV really helpful in weight management? If so, which is the best THCV supplement for weight loss? Is cannabis a useful remedy for metabolic disorders? What is the science behind THC and THCV functioning?
Here we explore the answers to these questions.
Metabolism and ECS
The endocannabinoid system (ECS), is a complex molecular regulation system formed by a network of receptors present in different organs of the body, including the brain, immune cells, glands, connective tissues, and organs.
The ECS is responsible for maintaining the integrity and stability of the body in different conditions. It regulates immunity, cell signaling, synaptic plasticity, metabolism, and the central nervous system. It has two main types of receptors, namely CB1 and CB2.
CB1 receptors play a major role in energy metabolism, regulating the usage, dissipation, and storage of energy. Any disruption in the ECS can lead to an imbalance in energy metabolism and visceral fat accumulation, leading to obesity, dyslipidemia, and diabetes.
THCV: emerging as a newly studied cannabinoid for weight loss
As mentioned, THCV has some peculiar properties that give it an edge over other cannabinoids as far as weight loss is concerned. Contrary to THC, it does not have psychoactive effects and decreases appetite, enhances satiety, and augments energy metabolism. These effects collectively make it a potent remedy for obesity and type 2 diabetes.
THCV and its effects on metabolism
Contrary to THC, which is an agonist at the CB1 and CB2 receptors, THCV is a neutral CB1 antagonist (reverse agonist) and agonist or antagonist at the CB2 receptor (based on its dose). THCV works by antagonizing the ligands (molecules) that bind to the CB1 receptors and prevent their functioning.
A 2013 study conducted on rodents demonstrated the effects of THCV on improving insulin sensitivity. When administered to obese mice, THCV not only enhanced insulin sensitivity but also restored insulin signaling in muscle fibers and liver cells.
The result of the study demonstrates THCV’s potential in treating metabolic disorders.
The bottom line
The positive outcomes of their studies have made researchers more adamant about studying the effects of cannabis on weight management and metabolic regulation, but the spotlight is now focused on THCV.
Owing to its potency in suppressing appetite, maintaining blood sugar levels, and delaying neurodegeneration, THCV might emerge as a formidable therapy, not only for weight loss but also for other metabolic disorders.
Assist from CBxGEN: The ideal supplement for weight loss
Coming to the fore as a helpful companion for people battling obesity, THCV has proved its mantel in weight loss. Although studies are ongoing to find more about the positive effects of this cannabis derivative on the human body and its systems, people are already using it in their weight loss journey.
If you are also looking for the best THCV for weight loss, look no further than CBxGEN. Backed by studies and free from side effects, the THCV-based formulation by CBxGEN will help you reach your weight loss goals early and more efficiently.