Edibles infused with cannabis are a discreet and indulging way to consume medical marijuana, and to reap its medicinal benefits. However, like other medications, taking medical marijuana edibles with or without food may lead to a difference in their effects.
Unfortunately, medical cannabis patients generally have little guidance on how to get started taking their medicine. And stories about bad experiences with edibles can make them an intimidating format to try—even for people who are highly familiar with smoking marijuana.
Some medicinal compounds must be taken with food in order to boost their absorption, while others are best taken on an empty stomach. So which is the best method when consuming THC gummies, chocolates, pastries, or any of the other tasty treats available at Ohio dispensaries?
You Need an Ohio Marijuana Card in Order to Legally Purchase Medical Marijuana Edibles
In order to purchase medical marijuana edibles from dispensaries, patients must first get approved by a doctor who has expertise in treating medical conditions with cannabis. Here at Ohio Marijuana Card, our medical marijuana doctors are here for you every step of the way. Learn more on how to qualify for your medical marijuana card.
The Difference Between What Happens When You Inhale Marijuana, and What Happens When You Take an Edible
When you inhale medical marijuana through vaping, then the cannabinoids like CBD and THC are absorbed into your bloodstream right away through your lungs. This means the effects come on relatively quickly, making it easier to monitor your dose.
When you eat edibles, however, it takes much longer for you to feel the active compounds in medical marijuana. This is because they are absorbed through your digestive tract and processed through your liver before completely entering your bloodstream.
Using edibles results in a longer onset time, and the effects take longer to wear off as well. This makes edibles an excellent choice for patients who are in need of longer-lasting relief from symptoms like chronic pain.
Just be aware that edibles with higher concentrations of THC can lead to unsettling results for beginners, including rapid heartbeat, increased anxiety, nausea, and disorientation. This is especially true when you use medical marijuana edibles on an empty stomach.
Should I Take Edibles With Or Without Food?
While you can safely take edibles on an empty or full stomach, the amount of food you’ve recently consumed—and even what you've consumed—will influence the effects of THC infused edibles.
Should You Eat Before Trying Cannabis Edibles For the First Time?
When consuming edibles on an empty stomach, the effects are going to hit you faster and harder. The high will be more intense, and it may lead to unpleasant side effects. For this reason, it is recommended that beginners avoid taking edibles without eating first.
What Happens When You Take Medical Marijuana Edibles on a Full Stomach?
When you take an edible on a full stomach, it will take longer to kick in and the effects may not be felt right away. Typically, it can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours before you begin to feel the effects.
Because an edible high lasts longer than those produced from inhaling marijuana, you want to make sure you find the right dose to ensure a positive experience. A good rule to always follow, especially if you are a beginner to cannabis use, is to start with a low dose, and go slow.
Is it Safe to Use THC-Infused Edibles On an Empty Stomach?
There may be times when you want to feel the effects of your edible quickly. In this case, you are safe to consume an edible without eating anything beforehand. However, remember that the effects are likely to be stronger, so decreasing your dose by 50% may be the best practice.
Regardless, edibles are safe to consume whether taken on an empty or full stomach, but the effects will be noticeably different. When you consume edibles on a full stomach, the effects will take longer to kick in and last longer. On an empty stomach, you will experience faster, stronger effects.
Talk to an Ohio Marijuana Card Doctor for Guidance on Taking Cannabis Edibles for Symptom Relief
If you want to know more about the best way to incorporate medical marijuana edibles into your wellness routine, Ohio Marijuana Card is here to help! Give our Patient Support Staff a call at (866) 457-5559, or simply schedule an appointment to have an evaluation with one of our marijuana doctors today!