Whether you’re a medical cannabis user or an enthusiast, you’re likely familiar with that post-consumption feeling. You’ve enjoyed your edible or smoked your cannabis, and then a little bit later, you get that tickle, that rumble in your tummy that signals it’s time for a snack.
But what should you do? The convenience store is too far away, and the grocery store? Forget it. Be smart and plan ahead. We’ve compiled a list of the best healthy munchie snacks you need in your pantry for that snacking crisis, but before we dive in, let’s explore why you get the munchies in the first place.
Why do we get the munchies?
One of the most well-known side effects of marijuana use is increased appetite. We call this hunger attack “the munchies.” This effect was one of the reasons cannabis was originally prescribed when medical marijuana was in its infancy. But why does weed “give you the munchies?”
It all has to do with the chemicals found in marijuana called cannabinoids. They mimic chemicals our body already makes – called endocannabinoids – which are partially responsible for our feelings of hunger. Studies conducted on mice show that the marijuana cannabinoids make our brains send out hunger signals, even triggering parts of the brain that typically suppress appetite to send out hunger signals instead.
These particular hunger chemicals also make sure we crave salty, fatty foods to get the most energy. Endocannabinoids can also heighten our sense of smell, making us enjoy the aroma of foods more intensely.
Find out how cannabis affects the body >
Healthy munchies you can make at home
Now that we understand why marijuana makes us hungry, let’s explore some of the best healthy snacks for munchies to keep in your pantry.
While cannabinoids will make you crave salty and fatty foods, you don’t necessarily have to indulge in unhealthy options. We’ve compiled a list of healthy munchie snacks that will satisfy your cannabis-induced cravings while also being nutritious.
1. Kale chips
One of the most popular craved snack foods is the humble potato chip, and kale chips are a great healthy alternative. You can certainly buy kale chips in a bag just like fried potato chips, but you can also make them at home and add whatever flavorings you want.
Here’s an easy recipe for healthy munchy food:
- Two bunches of fresh kale
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes, garlic powder or whatever spices you prefer!
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Thoroughly wash the kale, then tear off 2-3 inch pieces from the stems. Put the pieces in a large bowl and discard the stems. Drizzle the oil over the pieces and coat them by stirring with your hands or by tossing. Spread them out on greased baking sheets, sprinkle with salt and spices. Bake for 15 minutes or until crisp.
2. Popcorn
Another healthy snack for the munchies is popcorn because you get all the flavor you crave without most of the fat. While microwave popcorn in a bag with extra butter flavor might not be the healthiest option, there are easy ways to make popcorn at home, even in the microwave!
Stovetop popcorn
- ⅓ cup popping corn
- 3 tbsp peanut, canola, or coconut oil
- 3-quart saucepan with a lid
Add your oil to the pan and heat. Add popcorn. Put the cover on the pan and keep it there as you heat up the popcorn. Making sure to keep the lid on, move the pan to rotate the kernels a little. Take the pan off the heat when the popping slows.
Healthy microwave popcorn
- ½ cup popping corn
- 1 tsp oil
- Salt to taste
- 1 paper lunch bag
Put popcorn kernels, oil and salt in a bowl and mix to coat the corn kernels thoroughly. Pour them into the paper bag, then fold over three times to seal it. Microwave just like you do with the store-bought popcorn, stopping it when the popping slows to 1-2 seconds between pops.
3. Easiest guacamole ever
Avocados are chock full of nutrients and healthy fats, and they’re one of the newest “superfoods.” You can blend them into this yummy guacamole dip for a healthy snack that tastes rich but also delivers on nutrients. It’s super easy to make, even if you’ve already started enjoying your cannabis.
- 3 medium avocados
- ⅓ cup red onion, diced finely
- 1 Roma tomato, diced
- Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- 1 tsp minced garlic (one small clove)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Halve your avocados and remove the pits, then scoop them into a medium bowl. Mash avocados with a fork, but be sure to leave some larger chunks of avocado. Mix in diced onion and tomatoes, cilantro, garlic, salt, pepper and lime juice. Stir until evenly combined.
Pair this excellent dip with baked corn chips, pita chips or even sliced bell peppers. You can even freeze it to enjoy later.
4. Egg-less chocolate chip cookie dough
If you’re craving sweets, you might want to indulge in some cookie dough. But regular cookie dough contains raw eggs, which can carry the risk of salmonella. Instead, try this quick and easy egg-free cookie dough recipe. It makes four servings of healthy weed snacks:
- 4 tablespoons softened butter
- 1/2 cup packed brown sugar
- 1/4 teaspoon of salt
- 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 2 tablespoons (almond or cow’s) milk
- 10 tablespoons flour (about half a cup plus a couple of tablespoons)
- ¼ cup chocolate chips, pecans or whatever mix-ins you prefer
Start by mashing together your butter, brown sugar, salt and vanilla. Once combined, add your milk. Then carefully add the flour one tablespoon at a time until you’ve got a good, dough-like consistency. You want your dough to stick together but not be too wet. Then add your mix-ins, whether that’s chocolate chips, nuts or both!
Discover more cannabis-friendly recipes >
The perfect packaging for your edibles and munchies
Whether you make your own healthy munchie snacks or purchase cannabis edibles, you need foolproof packaging.
At Green Rush Packaging, our inventory includes Mylar bags, glass jars and other products specially designed for cannabis products. With our packaging solutions, you’ll be able to keep your cannabis edibles or even your munchies safe from light, moisture, and detection.
Explore our range of cannabis packaging solutions
Remember, while indulging in munchies can be enjoyable, it’s important to consume responsibly. If you’re concerned about excessive munchies, consider trying CBD products, which may help reduce this effect.
By preparing healthy snacks in advance and storing them properly, you can enjoy your cannabis experience without compromising your nutritional goals. Happy snacking!
