Marijuana increases metabolism by regulating insulin levels
Glass claims to have used these methods to reverse his own obesity problems – he managed to return to a healthy weight after reaching 345 pounds – and the book includes more than 100 testimonials along with the results of several scientific studies that found marijuana increases metabolism by helping to regulate insulin levels.
From WBEZ.org:
"One 2011 study that appeared in the American Journal of Epidemiology looked at two large populations of American adults and found obesity rates of 22 percent and 25.3 percent among non-marijuana smokers but only 14.3 percent and 17.2 percent among marijuana smokers, even when researchers controlled for other factors.
"Another 2013 study that appeared in the American Journal of Medicine showed lower insulin levels and waist circumference (an indicator of dangerous visceral fat) among regular pot smokers."
The fact that marijuana is well known for its appetite-stimulating effects (hence the "munchies"), leading marijuana smokers to consume hundreds more calories daily than non-users, may lead many to regard Glass's claims with a certain amount of skepticism.
But those extra calories may be offset by marijuana's metabolic effects, and, as Glass argues, if one is careful about what foods are consumed, then losing weight is indeed possible through the use of the herb.
So how does marijuana regulate metabolism?
From ColoradoPotGuide.com:
"Insulin, which is produced primarily by the pancreas, is the vessel through which glucose (sugar) can pass through cell walls to be converted into energy. If insulin production is high, too much glucose will be absorbed resulting in fatigue, whereas low insulin production can cause damage to arteries as glucose builds up. Cannabis use seems to regulate the process by promoting glucose absorption, increasing levels of 'good cholesterol' and improving one's over-all metabolic functioning, though it is uncertain how exactly this happens."
The key to making the marijuana diet work, according to Glass, is to use marijuana in moderation and to avoid eating while "high":
"Glass says that he's no stranger to the munchies but suggests combating them by taking no more than three tokes per smoking session, smoking alone and never eating while under the influence. He recommends using that time for exercise and self-guided reflections on the root causes of one's unhealthy behavior."
Managing the "munchies"
It's also important to eliminate or at least restrict the consumption of sugar, unhealthy fats and processed foods. Make sure you have healthy alternatives on hand when the munchies hit – instead of cookies or potato chips, keep a supply of fruit, vegetables, nuts or other healthy, organic foods around that can satisfy your cravings if you're unable to follow the author's advice of not eating while under the influence.
So, does the marijuana diet actually work or is Glass merely blowing smoke?
The testimonials included in the book suggest that it can truly be successful. The more than 100 people quoted reported weight loss of between 20 and 100 pounds.
Even if the weight loss is minimal, followers of the diet are likely to at least have a pleasant time while trying it out...
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