It’s become a running joke in pop culture that marijuana makes you almost insatiably hungry. If you a marijuana user, you may have experienced “the munchies” for yourself and can attest to this. However, if you want to enjoy herb while avoiding weight gains in the process, you may want to consider keeping a few healthier alternatives on hand. First, let’s discuss why marijuana seems to cause these cravings.
Why Does Weed Make You Hungry?
It took a while for scientists to discover the cause of weed-induced hunger. Their conclusion was that tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, a cannabinoid in weed interacts with our own brains’ cannabinoid receptors.
The THC activates a part of the brain that usually signals that the body is full. Instead of signaling fullness at that point, the body translates it to feeling ravenous. One other way THC increases eating is by making foods smell and taste better.
Healthy Munchie Alternative Snacks
- Air Popped Popcorn: Popcorn is a wonderful snack. It’s filling, it’s got fiber. You can skip butter and oil and instead get the flavor from things like garlic powder or pink salt. This would make a relatively low-calorie yet satisfying snack option.2.Cottage cheese: Cottage cheese is a good snack option. It’s rich in protein. It’s got calcium for tooth and bone strength. It can actually boost weight loss. You can make it even better by adding some fruits on the side for extra vitamins and minerals, as well. Cottage cheese is rich enough to keep you full, but healthy enough that you won’t regret “indulging”3.Kale Chips: Kale chips are a great option because they’re packed with antioxidants. There are also a good source of Vitamin B and Vitamin K. Kale chips are a low-calorie, savory, and satisfying snack that can easily be enjoyed at home or on the go-and they come in a variety of flavors such as barbeque, ranch, and cheddar. And if you make them at home you can also flavor them however you’d like.
4. Fruits: Fruits are another handy, healthy snack option. They are low-sodium and contain fiber, potassium, folate, as well as other beneficial vitamins and minerals. Fruits can keep you satiated for a long time, and you don’t have to worry about cooking or washing dishes. Having fruits on hand to grab as needed can save you time from having to make a quick meal or dash to a fast-food restaurant.
5. Mixed nuts: Mixed nuts are another uncomplicated, delicious option. Nuts are packed with fiber, vitamin E, and various other heart-healthy vitamins and minerals. They are a perfect option for a ready-to-go snack, however, it is advisable to eat them in moderation because they can contain a higher level of fats than some other options.
6.Hummus: Hummus is a great snack option. It contains calcium, iron, magnesium, and some omega-3 fats, which are essential for everyday health. You can use carrot sticks, cucumber slices, almond crackers, or low-calorie pita chips for dipping.
These snacks are a great place to start. There are plenty of healthy, delicious options around. Also, you may want to take a look at this article by for more healthy alternatives for those munchie cravings.