What Are Edibles?
Edibles are food products infused with cannabis. They come in many forms, including gummies, chocolates, baked goods, and more. The effects of edibles usually last longer than smoking or vaping cannabis, and they can be more intense, depending on the dosage and the individual’s tolerance.
How Do Edibles Work?
When you consume edibles, your digestive system metabolizes the cannabinoids in the food. The liver converts the THC into 11-hydroxy-THC, which is more potent and longer-lasting than regular THC. This is why edibles can take longer to kick in and can produce a more intense high than smoking or vaping.
Factors Affecting the Effects of Edibles
Several factors can affect the effects of edibles, including:
- Dosage: The higher the dose, the more intense the effects.
- Tolerance: Regular cannabis users may have a higher tolerance for edibles.
- Metabolism: People with faster metabolisms may feel the effects more quickly.
- Time of day: Consuming edibles on an empty stomach or in the morning may lead to a stronger high.
- Strain: Different strains of cannabis can produce different effects.
What Is Low Blood Pressure?
Blood pressure is the force of blood pushing against the walls of your arteries. Low blood pressure, or hypotension, is when your blood pressure drops below normal levels. This can cause symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, and more.
Causes of Low Blood Pressure
Some common causes of low blood pressure include:
- Dehydration
- Blood loss
- Medications
- Heart disease
- Endocrine problems
- Pregnancy
- Allergic reactions
Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure
Symptoms of low blood pressure may include:
- Dizziness
- Lightheadedness
- Fainting
- Blurred vision
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Rapid heartbeat
Can Edibles Cause Low Blood Pressure?
While there isn’t much research on the topic, some studies suggest that cannabis can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure. This drop can be more significant with edibles due to the way they are metabolized by the liver. However, the effects can vary depending on the individual and the dosage.
How to Manage Low Blood Pressure from Edibles
If you experience low blood pressure after consuming edibles, there are several things you can do to manage the symptoms:
- Sit or lie down to avoid fainting.
- Drink fluids to stay hydrated.
- Eat something salty to raise your blood pressure.
- Avoid standing up too quickly.
- Seek medical attention if your symptoms persist or worsen.
Precautions to Take When Consuming Edibles
To avoid experiencing low blood pressure or other negative effects from edibles, it’s important to take some precautions:
- Start with a low dose and wait at least 2 hours before consuming more.
- Read the label carefully to ensure you know the dosage and ingredients.
- Avoid consuming edibles on an empty stomach.
- Don’t mix edibles with alcohol or other drugs.
- Store edibles out of reach of children and pets.
Conclusion
While edibles can cause a temporary drop in blood pressure, the effects can vary depending on the individual and the dosage. To avoid negative effects, it’s important to take precautions and start with a low dose. If you experience low blood pressure after consuming edibles, there are several things you can do to manage the symptoms. As always, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have any concerns about consuming cannabis.
