Are Edibles as Bad for Your Liver as Alcohol
Are you dealing with stress for a long time and want all these nagging worries to melt away, but at the same time, do not want the hangover that comes with consuming alcohol? Are you curious about the edibles that supposedly give you the cerebral buzz, and that too without a rough morning and nausea?
So, if you find edibles intriguing but wonder, "Are edibles bad for your liver?". Well, you are not alone in asking this question.
Today, we will tell you everything you need to know about edibles and whether or not they are detrimental to your liver.
What are Edibles and How Do They Work?
Edibles like gummies, brownies, THC drinks, and chocolates have become a popular way to consume cannabis on the go. They come in a wide array of flavors and provide a smoke-free experience. Their effect takes some time to kick in and give you a longer-lasting high.
Unlike the traditional smoking method, which involves inhalation and exhalation, edibles have a completely different metabolic pathway.
So when you consume cannabis edibles, they go all the way from your mouth to the alimentary canal and right to your liver. The THC is metabolized there into its more potent form_ 11-hydroxy-THC, which lasts longer in your system.
Thus, this metabolic process in the liver is responsible for the delayed yet highly intense effect of edibles.
Now, this whole process can raise some eyebrows as to whether or not the consumption of edibles puts a strain on the liver and raises the concern: Are edibles as bad for your liver as alcohol? Now let's answer this concern of yours.
Alcohol vs. Edibles' Impact on the Liver
Let's see the impact of alcohol on the liver. So, what happens is when you consume alcohol, and it reaches all the way through the alimentary canal to your liver. There, it is metabolized in the presence of the enzyme alcohol dehydrogenase.
This results in the formation of acetaldehyde. Acetaldehyde not only causes oxidative stress in the body but also results in fat accumulation, inflammation, liver damage, and cirrhosis.
Now, cannabis and the liver interact in quite a different way. When you consume edibles, the cannabinoids (THC, CBD, etc.) present in them go through the first-pass metabolism in the liver. They are metabolized in the liver in the presence of enzymes, which convert them into various metabolites that are then released into the bloodstream.
It is worth mentioning that when edibles are metabolized in the liver, unlike alcohol, they do not produce toxic products. Research has even suggested that cannabinoids can have some anti-inflammatory effects. But mind you, that doesn't give edibles a completely free pass.
Are Edibles Bad for Your Liver?
Well, the answer is a bit nuanced. Its occasional or moderate use doesn't cause liver damage in healthy individuals.
Most people turn to edibles for nausea or other health concerns where cannabis edibles can provide relief, and that too without smoking and the detrimental effects associated with it.
But as it is said, an excess of everything is bad. Like any other product metabolized in the liver, excess consumption of edibles can strain your liver.
Thus, high and frequent usage of cannabis edibles can present liver issues, specifically in people who are already suffering from some liver disease.
Moreover, it can also pose problems in individuals taking medications that are metabolized in the liver, as these medications can interact with the THC of edibles.
Key Factors Influencing the Impact of Edibles on Liver
Let's take a quick sneak peek at the different factors that ultimately determine the impact of edibles on your liver.
Dosage and Frequency Matters
Occasional and moderate usage of edibles, especially spaced out over time, won't be detrimental to a healthy individual. On the other hand, frequent and high edibles dosing can put quite a strain on your liver.
So, if you are planning to use Sativa edibles for focus and creativity, be mindful to start slow and not overdo the consumption.
Pre-Existing Liver Conditions
THC present in cannabis edibles can alter the enzyme activity of the liver, and not only that, but it can also interfere with drug metabolism.
People who are already suffering from some liver disease should consult their healthcare provider before consuming edibles. In such cases, the ability of the liver to process cannabinoids may be compromised, resulting in a slower metabolism, which would then put a lot of strain on the liver.
Interactions with Medications
The cytochrome P450 enzyme system is primarily responsible for the metabolism of cannabinoids in the liver. But cannabinoids aren't the only thing it metabolizes. It is also responsible for processing substances like alcohol and some pharmaceutical drugs. All of these combined can put a lot of burden on the liver.
Therefore, it is always best for people who consume antidepressants, anticoagulants, and antiepileptic medications to be cautious while dealing with cannabis edibles.
Quality of Edibles
Not all edibles are created equal. Low-quality edibles can contain synthetic ingredients, pesticides, or harmful solvents that can be detrimental to your health. Therefore, you should always opt for high-quality edibles such as those offered by Violet Bay Area.
Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome (CHS)
Long-term and excessive usage of cannabis can result in Cannabinoid Hyperemesis Syndrome, which is characterized by nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
CHS is believed to result from the body's inability to metabolize excessive amounts of cannabinoids, which can be detrimental to the liver.
Although CHS is associated with chronic rather than casual usage of cannabis, it is always best to be cautious and use cannabis, including edibles, in moderation.
Tips for Safe and Smart Edibles Consumption
If you want to enjoy the best mood gummies without any side effects, we recommend following these tips for safe and smart edible consumption.
You should always start with a low dosage of edibles, and if needed, you can gradually increase the dosage, keeping in mind how your body reacts to it.
Edibles should be spaced over time as their effects are delayed. It takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours for the effects of edibles to kick in.
You should always keep yourself hydrated as proper hydration supports liver function and helps your body process cannabinoids efficiently.
It is always best to go for high-quality edibles from reputable sources.
It is always recommended to be mindful of the shelf life of gummies, as old edibles can lose their potency and flavor.
Mixing edibles with alcohol just for the thrill is a big "No" as it can increase impairment and liver damage.
If you have a pre-existing liver condition or are consuming medications that are metabolized in the liver, it is always best to consult your healthcare professional before consuming edibles.
Conclusion
All in all, moderate consumption of edibles isn't bad for your liver as they are not processed in the same way as alcohol is in our liver.
So, as long as you are a moderate edible consumer who occasionally snacks on your gummies or THC drinks, your liver is doing just fine. However, the real damage comes with the chronic and excessive usage of unregulated cannabis edibles.
Therefore, be safe rather than sorry, especially if you have some underlying liver condition; first, talk to a medical professional before you start consuming edibles.
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