Marijuana is commonly used by people with eating disorders and is often perceived as helpful by those with anorexia nervosa and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID), according to a new study published in the Journal of Eating Disorders.
Researchers surveyed 5,383 people with self-reported eating disorders to examine patterns of marijuana use and how participants believed it affected their symptoms. Overall, 56.1% said they had used marijuana in the past year, and among those who used it, 42.1% reported daily consumption.
The study found that perceived effects varied depending on the type of eating disorder. Participants with anorexia nervosa and ARFID were more likely to report that marijuana helped ease symptoms such as food-related anxiety, nausea and difficulty eating. By contrast, the same pattern was not seen among participants with binge eating disorder, with some respondents in that group reporting worsening symptoms.
The findings suggest marijuana use is relatively common in this population and may be viewed by some patients as a tool for symptom management, particularly in disorders involving food avoidance or restriction.
Researchers said the results highlight the need for more formal clinical research, noting that current evidence remains limited despite widespread use. They said controlled studies are needed to better understand both the potential therapeutic effects and the possible risks of marijuana use among people with eating disorders.
Because the study relied on self-reported survey responses, it does not prove that marijuana directly improved symptoms. Still, the large sample size provides a detailed look at how people with eating disorders are already using marijuana and how they perceive its effects.
The study adds to a growing body of research suggesting marijuana may affect appetite, nausea and anxiety in ways that could be relevant for certain eating disorders, while also underscoring that its impact may differ substantially depending on the diagnosis.
