CBD for Anorexia: Can CBD Treat Eating Disorders?
- Last updated: September 21, 2023
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By Jake Crossman (CNC-NASM), Nutrition Specialist; Holistic Health Coach; Managing Partner, USA Medical
Table of Contents
Understanding Anorexia: Symptoms and Treatment
What should you know about the symptoms and treatment of anorexia? How does the endocannabinoid system relate to eating disorders, and can CBD potentially help with anorexia? In our blog post, we have gathered the latest research on this topic.
What is Anorexia?
Anorexia Nervosa is a condition where individuals intentionally restrict their calorie intake to prevent weight gain, resulting in critical weight loss. People with anorexia are excessively preoccupied with their calorie intake and body weight.
They often perceive themselves as overweight, even when they are dangerously undernourished.
This condition is frequently associated with body dysmorphia, a mental disorder characterized by an obsession with imagined, non-existent physical flaws.
Anorexia is most commonly diagnosed in adolescent girls, but it can also occur in older and younger women and men.
Underlying problems often contribute to the development of this condition, such as:
- Body Image Distortion
- Social Anxiety Disorder
- Depression
- Abuse
- Social Isolation.
Symptoms of Anorexia
The physical symptoms of anorexia are related to starvation and are accompanied by emotional and behavioral problems.
Sometimes, it can be challenging to recognize the signs and symptoms because what constitutes low body weight varies from person to person.
Additionally, individuals with anorexia often conceal their thinness, eating habits, or physical issues.
The physical symptoms of anorexia may include:
- Extreme Weight Loss
- Thinness
- Abnormal Blood Counts
- Severe Fatigue
- Sleep Disturbances
- Dizziness or Fainting
- Bluish Discoloration of Fingers
- Thinning, Brittle hair and Hair loss
- Missing Menstrual Periods
- Constipation and Abdominal Pain
- Dry or Yellowish Skin
- Sensitivity to Cold
- Irregular Heart Rhythm
- Low Blood Pressure
- Dehydration
- Dental Problems
Other characteristics may include:
- Playing with food instead of eating or cutting food into tiny pieces.
- Irritability, depressed mood.
- Withdrawal from social activities.
- Denying feelings of hunger.
- Use of diuretics, laxatives, or diet pills.
Treatment for Anorexia
Many individuals suffering from anorexia nervosa do not believe they have a problem, which can significantly hinder treatment.
Since this eating disorder primarily involves psychological factors, doctors often utilize regular therapeutic sessions, anti-anxiety medications, and antidepressants. The main goal is to address self-esteem issues and treat underlying conditions such as depression or anxiety.
The Endocannabinoid System and Eating Disorders
Researchers have been studying the effectiveness of cannabinoids in relation to eating disorders since the 1990s. Studies have revealed that the endocannabinoid system, particularly the endocannabinoid receptors, have a significant impact on regulating appetite.
The CB1 receptors are known to stimulate appetite and food intake. The endocannabinoid system plays a crucial role in the body’s energy metabolism and fuel storage.
Dysfunctions in endocannabinoid signaling are partly responsible for eating disorders such as binge eating, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia nervosa.
Research on the Use of CBD for Anorexia
An interesting study is currently underway, with results expected by 2023. It involves using pure, synthesized CBD in a placebo-controlled, randomized, double-blind, experimental trial with patients suffering from anorexia.
In another study, they are testing the micro-dosing of a full-spectrum CBD tincture as a therapy for anorexia nervosa.
They are examining the serotonin levels of 20 patients over a 30-day period. The expected results suggest that micro-dosing treatment elevates serotonin levels and alleviates the accompanying symptoms of anorexia nervosa.
There are numerous ongoing studies worldwide looking at the potential effects of CBD and CBD oil.
Can CBD Help Reduce Anorexia Symptoms?
One of the accompanying factors of anorexia is anxiety and stress, which researchers have extensively studied.
According to a study published in 2010, individuals with social anxiety disorder were treated with 400 mg of CBD and a placebo.
The results showed that CBD reduces anxiety in cases of social anxiety disorder.
While the potential use of CBD for anorexia is currently being researched, the results look very promising.
Using USA Medical CBD for Anorexia
When considering CBD as a potential treatment for anorexia, it is crucial to prioritize high-quality products that undergo rigorous testing and certification. USA Medical offers lab-tested and certified CBD that can be a reliable option for managing anorexia symptoms. Here’s why:
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- Purity and Quality: USA Medical CBD is derived from hemp plants grown using organic farming practices. Our CBD undergoes thorough extraction processes to ensure purity and quality. By choosing our lab-tested CBD, you can trust that you’re receiving a product free from harmful contaminants.
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- Consistent Dosage: Anorexia treatment requires precise and consistent dosing. USA Medical CBD products are carefully formulated to provide accurate dosages, allowing for easier and more effective treatment management.
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- Third-Party Lab Testing: Our CBD products undergo comprehensive third-party lab testing to verify their potency, purity, and safety. This ensures that our products meet strict quality standards and are free from harmful substances.
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- Safe and Legal: USA Medical CBD complies with all legal regulations and restrictions, providing a safe and legal option for individuals seeking alternative approaches to manage anorexia symptoms.
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- Expert Support: USA Medical is dedicated to supporting individuals throughout their CBD journey. Our knowledgeable team can provide guidance and answer any questions regarding the use of CBD for anorexia treatment.
By choosing USA Medical CBD, you can have confidence in the quality and safety of the product, making it a viable option for incorporating CBD into your anorexia treatment plan.
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Jake Crossman
Jake loves health. He loves learning about the intricacies within the human body and rethinking what it means to be healthy.
Clearly something is wrong with our health - we have the most advanced 'healthcare' in history, yet millions still die from ancient diseases. Some at a higher rate than ever.
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These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. USA Medical products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please consult with a healthcare professional before use.