Is Cannabis the New Kale? ‘Bong Appetit’ Hosts on the Health Benefits of Weed
Cannabis' health benefits are still being discovered. But it's also great to cook with, say the hosts of Bong Appetit. Learn more on the Stronger podcast.
If you've never seen an episode of "Bong Appetit," Viceland's cult hit cannabis cooking show, you may have a preconceived notion of what it's about. Really, how many episodes could someone watch about making pot brownies? But cohosts Vanessa Lavorato and Ry Prichard are elevating cannabis cuisine, bringing in well-known chefs and helping them make their already delicious concoctions a little, well, greener. And there's nary a brownie in sight.
On this week's Stronger podcast, LIVESTRONG.COM food editor Erin Mosbaugh speaks with the duo about their take on cannabis culture. They discuss the health benefits of cannabis — including its effectiveness as a sleep aid and relaxant and its potential to help cancer patients and others who are suffering — and its growth as a recreational choice as increasing legalization happens around the country.
"We're really just trying to normalize it. We need people to understand that cannabis is nothing to be afraid of, that it's natural, that it's helpful," Prichard says. Lavorato added that the food angle is giving people a new way in. "It's so fun to get creative and see these chefs get their minds open. We're giving them a new spice for their arsenal."
Take a listen and then check out the new season of "Bong Appetit," airing September 6 on Viceland.
What Do YOU Think?
Have you tried cannabis edibles? Are you a fan of "Bong Appetit"? Let us know about your experiences — good or bad! — in the comments below.