Does CBD increase your appetite?
Not directly, in most cases. CBD does not act on the body the same way THC does. People sometimes notice improved appetite with CBD, but that is often indirect, for example:
- Stress feels lower, so eating feels easier.
- Nausea feels calmer, so food becomes appealing again.
- Discomfort is reduced, allowing the body to relax enough to eat.
If someone takes a “CBD” product and gets hungry, it can also be because the product is full-spectrum and contains trace THC (plus other cannabinoids).
Why THC increases appetite (and CBD usually does not)
THC and the “munchies.”
THC is well known for its appetite-stimulating effects. Mechanistically, it is linked with CB1 receptor activation, which is involved in hunger signaling and food reward.
CBD is different
CBD does not bind to CB1 the same way THC does. That is one reason CBD products are not the go-to choice when the goal is a direct appetite boost.
The best type of CBD for appetite support
If your goal is appetite support, these are the options in the order most people find helpful:
1) Full-spectrum CBD gummies (best “CBD category” option for appetite)
Full-spectrum CBD includes:
- CBD
- Trace THC (legal limits vary by product type and regulations)
- Minor cannabinoids (often including CBG, CBN, CBC)
Because of the trace THC and minor cannabinoids, full-spectrum formulas are more likely to support appetite than CBD isolate.
Best for: People who want a CBD-forward product with potential appetite support.
2) CBD isolate (least likely to increase appetite)
CBD isolate is “just CBD.” If appetite support is the primary goal, isolate is usually not the best fit.
Best for: People who want to avoid THC entirely and are using CBD more for calm, not hunger.
3) THC gummies (most direct appetite support)
If you want the most reliable appetite boost, THC products are typically the most direct route, assuming they are legal for you and appropriate for your situation.
Best for: People who want the classic hunger effect and can handle intoxicating impacts responsibly.
Available Full Spectrum CBD Gummies
Where CBG fits in
CBG (cannabigerol) is a minor cannabinoid that has gained attention for its potential appetite-supporting effects. The most substantial evidence so far is preclinical (animal) research, but it is one reason many full-spectrum formulas that include CBG are popular for appetite goals.
Simple takeaway: If you want a CBD-based product with more substantial appetite-supporting potential, look for full-spectrum products and consider formulas that include CBG.
How to choose the best product for appetite
Use this checklist to pick smarter:
Look for
- Full-spectrum on the label
- Clear cannabinoid breakdown (CBD amount per serving, plus presence of minor cannabinoids)
- Third-party lab testing (COA available)
- Predictable dosing (consistent mg per gummy or serving)
Be cautious with
- Products that say “CBD” but never clarify whether they are isolate, broad-spectrum, or full-spectrum
- Labels with no testing transparency
- Overpromising claims like “guaranteed appetite increase.”
Practical tips to increase appetite (with or without cannabinoids)
If appetite is low, these basics often help:
- Eat smaller meals more often (instead of forcing one big meal)
- Prioritize calorie-dense, easy foods (smoothies, yogurt, nut butters)
- Reduce stress before meals (walk, shower, music, breathing)
- Address nausea triggers (smells, greasy foods, dehydration)
If appetite loss is persistent or unexplained, it is worth checking in with a clinician.
FAQ
What is the best CBD to increase appetite?
If you are staying in the CBD lane, full-spectrum CBD gummies are typically the best option because they can include trace THC and minor cannabinoids that may support hunger.
Will CBD give you the munchies?
Usually no. The “munchies” effect is mainly associated with THC, not CBD.
Is full-spectrum CBD more potent for appetite than CBD isolate?
Often, yes. Full-spectrum includes trace THC and other cannabinoids that may influence appetite more than CBD alone.
Can CBD reduce appetite?
Some research suggests that CBD may have appetite-reducing effects in specific contexts so that results can vary by person, dose, and product type.
References
- Healthline: “CBD and Appetite: What’s the Relationship?” Healthline
- Pinto & Martel (2022) systematic review on cannabidiol, appetite, and body weight (PMC) PMC
- PubMed record for the same systematic review PubMed
- Review discussing CB1 receptor activity and appetite regulation (PMC) PMC
- 2025 review noting THC activation of CB1 linked to increased appetite (PMC) PMC
- Brierley et al. (2016) on CBG and appetite stimulation in preclinical research (PMC) PMC
- Kirkham (2005), PubMed overview of endocannabinoids and CB1 in appetite support PubMed