Marijuana: Does it make you fatter or thinner?

Are marijuana users heavier than non-marijuana users?

In a study published in the American Journal of Epidemiology, a correlation was actually found between being slender and smoking marijuana. According to the research, those that suffered from obesity were more likely to have never touched the drug.

This data was collected from two extensive American surveys, compiling information from over 52,000 individuals.

The first survey revealed that:
• 22% of non-marijuana users were obese
• 14% of the marijuana users were obese

The second survey found that:
• 25% of non-marijuana users were obese
• 17% of marijuana smokers were considered obese

With a drug that is known for appetite stimulation or ‘the munchies’, the results seem, well, off. Medical facilities often prescribe marijuana to patients that are having a harder time eating. What gives?

We don’t know, exactly. Because correlation doesn’t mean causation, there are a number of factors these surveys cannot consider. However, this initial research suggests that one cannot immediately implicate marijuana in weight gain.

Whatever the correlation, this data still stands until further research can be done. Are smokers simply turning to marijuana instead of food? Are there other ingredients in the plant that work as appetite suppressants?

Let the debate continue so that marijuana can find its proper place and users can make informed decisions.

Source:

HealthLand.Time.com