Nutrition, endocannabinoids, and the use of cannabis: An overview for the nutrition clinician

Abstract

The endocannabinoid system (ECs) is composed of multiple signaling compounds and receptors within the central and peripheral nervous system along with various organs, including the gut, liver, and skeletal muscle. The ECs has been implicated in metabolism, gut motility, and eating behaviors. The ECs is altered in disease states such as obesity. Recent studies have clarified the role of the gut microbiome and nutrition on the ECs. Exogenous cannabinoid (CB) use, either organic or synthetic, stimulates the ECs through CB1 and CB2 receptors. However, the role of CBs is unclear in regard to nutrition optimization or to treat disease states. This review briefly summarizes the effect of the ECs and exogenous CBs on metabolism and nutrition. With the increased legalization of cannabis, there is a corresponding increased use in the United States. Therefore, nutrition clinicians need to be aware of both the benefits and harm of cannabis use on overall nutrition status, as well as the gaps in knowledge for future research and guideline development.