Understanding Edibles and Their Effects
Edibles are a popular way of consuming cannabis, and for good reason. They are discreet, easy to consume, and come in a variety of forms, from gummies to chocolates to baked goods. Edibles also tend to produce a longer-lasting, more potent high than smoking or vaping cannabis. However, there are some potential risks associated with consuming edibles, including the possibility of elevated liver enzymes.
When you consume an edible, the active ingredients in cannabis, known as cannabinoids, are metabolized by your liver before they enter your bloodstream. This process can put a strain on the liver, especially if you consume a high dose of THC, the cannabinoid responsible for the “high” associated with cannabis. In some cases, this strain on the liver can lead to elevated liver enzymes.
What Are Liver Enzymes?
Liver enzymes are proteins produced by the liver that help break down substances in the body. Elevated liver enzymes are a sign that the liver is under stress and is working harder than usual to break down these substances. There are several different types of liver enzymes, but the two most commonly measured in blood tests are alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST).
How Can Edibles Cause Elevated Liver Enzymes?
As mentioned earlier, edibles can put a strain on the liver because they are metabolized by the liver before entering the bloodstream. This process can lead to elevated liver enzymes, especially if you consume a high dose of THC. However, it’s worth noting that not everyone who consumes edibles will experience elevated liver enzymes, and the severity of the elevation can vary from person to person.
One study published in the journal “Pharmacology & Therapeutics” found that THC can cause oxidative stress in the liver, which can lead to inflammation and damage to liver cells. This damage can cause liver enzymes to leak into the bloodstream, leading to elevated levels of ALT and AST.
What Are the Symptoms of Elevated Liver Enzymes?
In many cases, elevated liver enzymes do not cause any symptoms and are only detected through blood tests. However, if your liver enzymes are significantly elevated, you may experience symptoms such as:
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Jaundice (yellowing of the skin and eyes)
- Dark urine
- Pale stools
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and the best course of treatment.
How Can You Minimize the Risk of Elevated Liver Enzymes from Edibles?
If you are concerned about the potential risks of consuming edibles, there are several steps you can take to minimize the risk of elevated liver enzymes:
-
Start with a low dose: If you are new to edibles, start with a low dose and gradually increase your dosage over time. This will give your body time to adjust and can help minimize any potential negative effects.
-
Choose edibles with a lower THC content: Higher THC content can increase the risk of elevated liver enzymes. Choose edibles with a lower THC content to minimize this risk.
-
Avoid consuming edibles in combination with alcohol: Consuming edibles in combination with alcohol can increase the risk of liver damage and elevated liver enzymes.
-
Speak with a healthcare provider: If you have a history of liver problems, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider before consuming edibles to determine if they are safe for you.
Conclusion
Edibles can be a convenient and enjoyable way to consume cannabis, but it’s important to be aware of the potential risks associated with their use. While not everyone who consumes edibles will experience elevated liver enzymes, it’s still important to take steps to minimize this risk, such as starting with a low dose and choosing edibles with a lower THC content. If you experience any symptoms of elevated liver enzymes, speak with a healthcare provider to determine the cause and the best course of treatment.
