Medical Cannabis for Anorexia: What to Expect

Anorexia can feel like a never-ending struggle with no way out. Not only does this disorder affect your physical health, but it also takes its toll on your emotional and mental health. 

If you have anorexia and traditional treatments haven’t improved your symptoms, it might be time to explore alternative options. That’s where medical cannabis comes in. 

At The Higher Care Clinic (Thc2), Jason W. Sims, DO, and our dedicated team in Tulsa, Oklahoma, may recommend medical cannabis. With a history spanning thousands of years, this treatment may offer surprising symptom management for eating disorders that may surprise you.

So, if you’re considering incorporating medical cannabis into your anorexia treatment plan, here’s what to expect. 

Understanding medical cannabis 

Although cannabis often has a negative reputation in our society, being knowledgeable about its medical uses, especially for disorders as debilitating as anorexia, can arm you with tools to combat your condition. 

The first thing to keep in mind is that medical cannabis contains cannabinoids (CBD), which are chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. Known for its therapeutic benefits, CBD offers pain relief and anxiety reduction without inducing a high. Additionally, you can take medical cannabis through various methods like vaping, smoking, edibles, and topicals. 

Benefits of medical cannabis for anorexia

From pain relief and nausea reduction to mood regulation and more, medical cannabis is full of surprises when it comes to providing relief. Here’s how it can help with anorexia:

Appetite stimulation

One of the most appealing benefits of medical cannabis for anorexia is that it helps increase appetite. While THC is typically associated with appetite stimulation, some CBD-rich cannabis strains may also have appetite-enhancing effects. This can help with food aversions and regaining lost weight. 

Nausea relief 

Additionally, some significant side effects of anorexia include nausea and gastrointestinal discomfort, especially during meals. Medical cannabis saves the day with its anti-nausea properties, making it easier to enjoy eating without discomfort. 

Mood regulation

Depression and anxiety are common conditions that often go hand-in-hand with anorexia. CBD-rich cannabis strains can help alleviate symptoms of anxiousness, despair, and hopelessness by promoting a more positive mood and reducing stress levels. 

Pain management

If you have anorexia and are experiencing physical discomfort or pain due to nutritional deficiencies or other health complications, medical cannabis has analgesic (pain relieving) properties that can improve your overall comfort. 

Using medical cannabis for anorexia treatment 

Now that you understand how medical cannabis can help with anorexia, you might be wondering what to expect from a treatment plan. Keep in mind that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach, and everyone’s case looks different. 

At The Higher Care Clinic, we start your medical cannabis certification by discussing your lifestyle and reviewing your medical records. Then, we talk you through the benefits and potential risks. We handle the paperwork and submit it to the state if you qualify. With a telehealth appointment, you can easily access your certificate online.

Once you start your medical cannabis treatment for anorexia, Dr. Sims regularly monitors your response to it. He can adjust the dosage or strain to optimize the benefits. 

So, if you’re ready to go beyond traditional methods for anorexia treatment, discuss medical cannabis by contacting The Higher Care Clinic or request an appointment with Dr. Sims using our online scheduler today.