There are a number of options for treating eating disorders and there is no one size fits all approach. From cognitive behavior therapy to medications, there is an option for just about everybody.
Another possibility is to use CBD oil in treating an eating disorder and possibly even weight loss. CBD stands for Cannabidiol which is a compound from the hemp plant that has shown promise in treating many different conditions. It is taken as a supplement for anxiety, insomnia and even depression.
It is also being looked at as a potential treatment for things like anorexia and bulimia which are the two most common eating disorders. Can CBD help you? In this article, we will go over several of the ways that it is believed that it could be a possible treatment. To learn about which one is best for you, then you can read more here.
Endocannabinoid anandamide
Though there are still a lot of unknowns when it comes to the endocannabinoid system, one thing is certain. It plays a pivotal role in our physiological and cognitive processes. One of its main functions is its role in regulating our appetite.
Without getting too complicated, endocannabinoid anandamide is part of the neurological process of the endocannabinoid system. It is what gives us joy from eating in simple terms.
It has been found that people with bulimia often have elevated levels of endocannabinoid anandamide. What this means is that there is an imbalance in how our body treats food and its intake. Then, people with anorexia seem to have mutations in the genes that lead to an endocannabinoid deficiency.
In this way, CBD can help treat both bulimics and anorexics as it can help to regulate the endocannabinoid system. The CBD binds with the receptors and sends signals to the brain which will help balance the response.
It can help patients take back control of their eating habits and have a healthy appetite.
Stress, anxiety and depression
Another benefit of the CBD when it binds with the endocannabinoid receptors is that it helps cope with stress. Since many eating disorders are a result of stress or anxiety, this is a huge boon.
Serotonin is released in the brain which has an antidepressant effect. And cortisol, which is the hormone that makes us feel stressed is reduced.
Social anxiety, PTSD effects and OCD are all managed effectively by using CBD oil and will help people with eating disorders related to those factors.
Weight problems
People that have trouble managing their weight can find some relief from CBD oil. In cases where they need to gain weight they can increase their appetite with the CBD oil. For people recovering from anorexia, this can help them get back to a healthy weight more quickly.
Those that are looking to lose weight will find that they do less binge eating and will lose weight as a result. It can even help regulate our body’s metabolism to burn calories efficiently.
Author: Mandy Kloppers
Mandy is a qualified therapist who treats depression, anxiety, OCD, PTSD, trauma, and many other types of mental health issues. She provides online therapy around the world for those needing support and also provides relationship counselling.
