Understanding the Effects of Edibles on the Heart
Edibles are a popular way of consuming marijuana, especially for medical purposes. However, there is a lot of confusion and controversy surrounding the impact of edibles on the heart. In this essay, we will explore the effects of edibles on the heart and try to understand the underlying mechanisms.
What are Edibles?
Edibles are food products infused with marijuana. They come in various forms, including baked goods, candies, chocolates, and gummies. Edibles are usually made by extracting THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive compound in marijuana, and infusing it into the food product.
How Do Edibles Work?
When you consume edibles, THC is absorbed into your bloodstream through your gastrointestinal tract. From there, it travels to your liver, where it is metabolized into 11-hydroxy-THC, a more potent form of THC. This form of THC is then circulated throughout your body, including your brain and heart.
The Effect of Edibles on Heart Rate
One of the most significant concerns about the impact of edibles on the heart is the effect on heart rate. Studies have shown that THC can increase heart rate by 20-50 beats per minute, depending on the dose and the user’s tolerance. This increase in heart rate can be especially concerning for people with pre-existing heart conditions, as it can put additional stress on the heart.
However, it is worth noting that the increase in heart rate caused by edibles is usually short-lived and subsides as the effects of THC wear off. Moreover, the increase in heart rate is generally not dangerous for healthy individuals, as long as they do not have any underlying heart conditions.
The Effect of Edibles on Blood Pressure
Another concern about the impact of edibles on the heart is the effect on blood pressure. THC has been shown to cause a temporary decrease in blood pressure, followed by a compensatory increase. This fluctuation in blood pressure can also put additional stress on the heart, especially for people with pre-existing heart conditions.
However, like the increase in heart rate, the effect of edibles on blood pressure is usually short-lived and subsides as the effects of THC wear off. Moreover, the fluctuation in blood pressure is generally not dangerous for healthy individuals, as long as they do not have any underlying heart conditions.
Can Edibles Cause Heart Attacks?
One of the most significant misconceptions about the impact of edibles on the heart is the belief that they can cause heart attacks. While it is true that THC can increase heart rate and blood pressure, there is no evidence to suggest that edibles can cause heart attacks.
In fact, a study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology found that there was no significant increase in the risk of heart attacks among marijuana users, even when the marijuana was smoked.
Conclusion
In conclusion, edibles can have an impact on heart rate and blood pressure, but the effects are usually short-lived and subsides as the effects of THC wear off. There is no evidence to suggest that edibles can cause heart attacks, and the risk of adverse effects is generally low for healthy individuals. However, people with pre-existing heart conditions should be cautious when consuming edibles and should consult with their healthcare provider before doing so.
