The Appeal of Edibles
Edibles have become increasingly popular over the years, especially among those who want a discreet way of consuming marijuana. They come in various forms, such as brownies, gummies, and chocolates, and their effects can last longer than those of smoking. The appeal of edibles is understandable, but some people have reported feeling excessively sleepy or tired after consuming them, leading to the belief that edibles can make you tired. In this essay, we’ll explore the truth behind this claim and uncover why some people feel more fatigued after consuming edibles.
The Science of Edibles
Ingesting an edible is different from smoking marijuana because it takes longer for the psychoactive compounds, such as THC, to enter your bloodstream. When you consume an edible, your liver breaks down the THC into a more potent chemical called 11-hydroxy-THC. This compound can have a stronger impact on your body than THC from smoking, leading to a more intense high that can last for hours.
Why Do Edibles Make You Tired?
The reason why some people feel more tired after consuming edibles is because of the way THC interacts with the body. When you smoke or vape marijuana, THC enters your bloodstream through your lungs, and you’ll start feeling the effects within minutes. However, when you consume an edible, it takes longer for the THC to enter your bloodstream, and the effects can be delayed by up to two hours.
When the THC from an edible finally enters your bloodstream, it can have a much stronger effect on your body than smoking. This can lead to a more intense high, which can cause drowsiness, fatigue, and lethargy. Additionally, some edibles can contain higher doses of THC, leading to more pronounced effects on the body.
Factors That Affect the Intensity of Edibles
Several factors can affect the intensity of the high you get from consuming edibles. These include:
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Dosage: The amount of THC in an edible can vary widely, so it’s crucial to start with a low dose and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more.
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Metabolism: Your metabolism can affect how quickly your body processes THC, leading to more pronounced effects.
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Tolerance: If you use marijuana regularly, you may have built up a tolerance to THC, making it less potent and less likely to cause drowsiness.
Tips for Consuming Edibles
If you’re new to edibles or want to avoid feeling tired after consumption, follow these tips:
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Start with a low dose: Begin with a small amount of THC and wait for the effects to kick in before consuming more. It’s better to err on the side of caution than to overdo it.
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Wait for the effects: Unlike smoking, edibles take longer to affect you. Wait at least two hours before consuming more to avoid taking too much.
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Eat a meal before consuming: Consuming an edible on an empty stomach can intensify the effects, leading to fatigue and drowsiness.
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Stay hydrated: Drinking water can help to offset the dehydrating effects of marijuana, which can cause fatigue and lethargy.
Conclusion
While some people might feel tired after consuming edibles, it’s not an inevitable outcome. By starting with a small dose, waiting for the effects to kick in, and following some practical tips, you can avoid feeling excessively sleepy or tired after consuming edibles. Understanding how edibles work and the factors that affect their potency can help you make more informed decisions about consuming them.
