Marijuana and Anorexia

How MMJ Health can help Anorexia Patients

What is Anorexia?

Anorexia nervosa, also more commonly known as anorexia, is an eating disorder identified by a distorted body image that results in dangerous or excessive weight-loss caused by self-starvation. Often associated with a fear of being overweight, individuals suffering from anorexia attempt to control their weight, comparing a slim stature with their self-worth. Anorexia is a psychological disorder that can develop regardless of one’s gender, age, race, or cultural background.

Symptoms of Anorexia

It can be difficult at times to notice signs or symptoms of anorexia, as it can vary based on an individual’s size and body weight. Those who suffer from anorexia nervosa may experience physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. Physical Symptoms:

Emotional and Behavioral Symptoms:

Frequently skipping meals, restricting food intake, or eating alone to binge
An intense fear of gaining weight
Denial of hunger
Excessive exercise for the relentless pursuit of being thin
Social withdrawals
Regularly looking at oneself in the mirror or stepping on a scale

If you notice any of these symptoms, you should schedule an appointment with your doctor.

Different Types of Anorexia

Anorexia nervosa can be classified into two subtypes: restricting and binge eating/purging, both of which can be life-threatening and extremely damaging to the body.

Early-onset Anorexia

Restricting anorexia occurs when an individual places a severe restriction on what they choose to consume. Typically, those suffering from this subtype of anorexia often count their calories, can be found skipping meals, and avoid food types that can lead to weight gain.

Late-onset Anorexia

The second subtype of anorexia involves a pattern of binging on large amounts of food periodically and purging the food shortly after either through activities such as self-induced vomiting, or excessive use of laxatives.

Diagnosing Anorexia

To diagnose anorexia nervosa, your physician will look for several physical and behavioral signs to assess the current severity of the disorder, and rule out any other medical causes for the weight loss. Your health professional will access the following:

Conduct a physical exam to check your vital signs and identify any abnormalities.
Check electrolytes and protein through a series of blood tests that access the functionality of your liver, kidney, and thyroid.
Determine your body mass index (BMI), which is a value derived from the mass and height of a person.
Access how often you are eating or restricting your food intake leading to weight loss.
Perform a psychological evaluation to see how obsessed you may be with losing weight or fear of gaining weight, and determine how distorted your perception of your body may be in reality to how it actually compares to your BMI.

Please see a licensed doctor to get properly diagnosed with anorexia. MMJ Health has professional and knowledgeable Medical Marijuana Specialists that can create a treatment plan that works for your lifestyle.

Best Terpenes for Anorexia

Some terpenes found in cannabis may actually help improve appetite and promote healthy eating habits. Ever heard of “munchies?” Here are some terpenes that have shown potential in managing anorexia:

Limonene

has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress, which can help reduce the anxiety and depression that often accompany anorexia.

Linalool

has a calming effect that can help reduce anxiety and promote relaxation, which may help improve appetite.

Beta-caryophyllene

has anti-inflammatory properties that may help reduce gastrointestinal discomfort, which can be a common symptom of anorexia.

Humulene

has been shown to have appetite-suppressing properties, which may help regulate eating habits.

Best Strains for Anorexia

Here are some cannabis strains that may be beneficial for those with anorexia:

OG Kush

a popular strain that can help with both anxiety and appetite stimulation

Afghani

This indica-dominant strain can help with appetite stimulation and stress reduction. Its sedative effects can also promote healthier sleep patterns.

Green Crack

Apart from helping with appetite stimulation, this strain can help with relaxation, stress reduction, mood enhancement and increased focus and mental clarity.

Headband

This potent hybrid strain combines characteristics of both the sativa and indica strain varieties. Scientists believe that it can help with appetite stimulation, reduced stress and anxiety, better mood overall and relief from pain and physical discomfort.

Purple Urkle

This indica-dominant strain is known for its sedative and relaxing effects. It may entice patients to eat more, be more relaxed and have longer and better sleeping patterns.

Best Online Tools for Anorexia

It is important for individuals with anorexia to have access to resources and support in order to manage their condition effectively. Fortunately, there are several online tools available that can be useful for those dealing with anorexia. Here are some of the best online tools for anorexia:

Recovery Record: This app provides a meal planner, journal, and other features to help individuals with anorexia track their progress and receive support from their treatment team.
ANAD Helpline: The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders (ANAD) provides a helpline for individuals seeking support and guidance.
NEDA Navigator: The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) offers a support program called the NEDA Navigator, which provides one-on-one support and guidance to individuals with eating disorders.
MentorConnect: This online community provides individuals with anorexia the opportunity to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.
ANRED: The Anorexia Nervosa and Related Eating Disorders (ANRED) website offers a range of resources, including information on treatment options, recovery strategies, and coping skills.

What can a Florida Medical Marijuana clinic do for Anorexia?

There is little research on whether or not cannabis can be an effective treatment for anorexia nervosa. However, marijuana is commonly used for those suffering from cancer or HIV/AIDS, due to its ability to assist with uncontrolled weight loss, anxiety, and nausea, which are also common symptoms of anorexia. Commonly known as the “munchies”, chemical compounds in cannabis react with the body’s endocannabinoid system, which regulates the brain and often leads to appetite-enhancing properties. For these reasons, medical cannabis can be a potential treatment option for those suffering from anorexia. Anyone dealing with the mental disorder should first see a certified physician to be diagnosed and address the underlying psychological factors attributed to anorexia.

Under Amendment 2, anorexia may be a qualifying condition for a medical marijuana card in Florida.

If you are currently suffering from anorexia nervosa and would like to talk to our certified Florida Marijuana doctors, you can book an appointment and come to any of our 10 convenient MMJ Health locations.