Over the years, edibles have gained popularity as a discreet and convenient way to consume cannabis for both recreational and medicinal purposes. However, there are instances when individuals may not experience the expected potent effects of edibles. If you’ve encountered this frustration, don’t worry! There are several factors that could explain why edibles might have a delayed onset or weaker impact. In this article, we’ll delve into these reasons to provide insights that can help you maximize your experience.
1. Ensuring Accurate Dosage:
The accuracy of dosage is a critical factor to take into account. Unlike smoking or vaping, which provide immediate effects, it takes longer for edibles to take effect due to our digestion and metabolism processes. One common reason why some people don’t feel the desired effects from edibles is an inaccurate dosage. It’s crucial to keep in mind that everyone’s endocannabinoid system (ECS) reacts differently to cannabis compounds like THC and CBD. Factors such as body chemistry and tolerance levels contribute to variations in how people respond to edibles. Therefore, it’s important for individuals who are new to consuming edibles or have a higher tolerance to start with smaller doses when trying out new products.
2. Metabolism and Digestion Speed:
As mentioned earlier, the reason for the delayed onset of effects with edibles is due to how our bodies digest and metabolize them. Each person’s metabolic rate can vary significantly, which can impact how quickly their body breaks down the food. In addition, the efficiency of digestion also affects how long it takes for THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound found in edibles, to be converted into its potent form called 11-hydroxy-THC. Various factors such as age, genetics, overall health, and physical activity levels can influence whether metabolism is fast or slow. It’s important to be patient when consuming edibles, as it can take from 30 minutes to two hours for the effects to kick in. If you don’t feel any effects within this expected timeframe, it’s advisable not to increase the dosage, as doing so could lead to an overwhelming experience later on.
3. Consumption Habits:
How edibles are consumed can also have an impact on their effectiveness. There are a number of specific habits that may affect how potent they are:
- Consuming on an Empty Stomach: Eating edibles when your stomach is empty may result in faster metabolism and quicker onset of effects. However, people who have lower body fat or a faster metabolism might process THC so swiftly that it doesn’t reach the ideal concentration to produce significant effects.
- Consuming Alongside Fatty Foods: Pairing edibles with fatty foods or incorporating them into meals can actually boost absorption since THC is soluble in fat. Foods like avocado, nuts, or cheese can aid in increasing the availability of cannabinoids in your system.
4. Potency of the Product:
The quality and potency of the edible you select play a role in determining its effectiveness. It’s important to choose brands known for microdosing and stringent quality control measures. Understanding the manufacturer’s extraction methods, ingredient sourcing, and testing protocols ensures that you’re getting a product that meets your desired standards and expectations.
5. Interactions with CBD:
CBD (cannabidiol), another significant compound found in cannabis, has garnered attention for its benefits and its ability to interact synergistically with THC. Some individuals prefer products with high CBD content because it reportedly has an effect on the psychoactive properties associated with THC. If you’ve tried a CBD-infused edible and haven’t felt its desired effects, it might be worth exploring strains or products that have different combinations of these cannabinoids to better suit your needs.
Conclusion
If you’ve been disappointed by edibles not delivering the expected results, understanding factors like dosage, metabolism, digestion speed, consumption habits, product quality and strength, and CBD interactions can assist you in making informed decisions for a more enjoyable experience. Remember to start with smaller doses if you’re new to edibles or have a low tolerance level. Choose your products wisely and allow ample time for digestion to optimize the effects of edibles.
