Early research indicates a link between cannabis use and binge eating. However, until now, there has been a lack of population-based research for both female and male young adults on the subject. As depressive symptoms can precede cannabis use and binge eating, research into the connection between the three is essential.
In the current study, researchers analyzed survey results from 1,568 young adults collected in 2017- 2018 as a part of Project Eating and Activity over Time (EAT) 2010- 2018. Data included past-year cannabis use, binge eating, depressive symptoms, BMI, and sociodemographic characteristics.
The majority of participants reported abstinence from cannabis use, with 73% of females and 67% of males reporting not to have used cannabis in the past year. However, 33% of males- 233 participants, and 27% of females- 218 participants, reported past-year cannabis use.
While 24% of female cannabis users reported binge eating, the same was true for just 13% of non-users. No link, however, was found for males. The results remained after controlling for depressive symptoms.
To explain the findings, the researchers noted that binge eating and cannabis use may serve as a way to escape negative emotional states, including symptoms of depression. They noted that their findings verify this theory by suggesting a direct link between symptoms of depression and outcomes of cannabis use and binge eating.
"The observed association between cannabis use and binge eating in female young adults, independent of depressive symptoms, suggests a direct connection potentially influenced by cannabis-induced changes in appetite and cravings," wrote the researchers in the study.
“These findings inform policy and practice by emphasizing the need for gender-specific interventions, such as psychoeducation programs, to address the effects of cannabis on appetite and its link to binge eating,” they added.
Sources: Journal of Psychiatric Research