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You're not alone if you've been having constipation after taking cannabis, especially edibles or tinctures; but, there is a solution.
While many people report that cannabis helps them feel less constipated, others report the exact reverse. But that's the beauty of this plant's complexity—different strains can affect people differently, and even the same strain might have a different effect depending on the dosage or method of administration.
Why Does Cannabis Make You Constipated?
Constipation is one of the less severe but unpleasant adverse effects of cannabis. Constipation is a horrible sensation that no one likes! Hard stools, bowel movements less than three times per week, stomach pain, trouble passing stools, or the sensation that your rectum is restricted are some signs of cannabis-induced constipation.
Due to the fact that edibles must pass through the digestive system, this outcome occurs more frequently with edibles. Edibles in particular have a tendency to produce constipation more frequently because they include more components and interact with cannabis in your stomach.
Actually, cannabis's tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) content is known to soothe your digestive system. It makes things proceed more quickly and effectively. Therefore, smoking or ingesting pure cannabis that contains both THC and CBD can have laxative effects.
This is the reason behind the use of cannabis in the treatment of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a disorder marked by problems with bowel movement, including constipation.
If you've ever eaten edibles and had constipation, you should research the product's composition before consuming it. It's very likely that additional ingredients are what's truly making things "back up" more than usual.
Remember that the THC must be carried by an oil or other type of fat in cannabis foods, capsules, and tinctures. It may upset some people's stomachs.
Additionally, among all modes of administration, edibles take the longest to take action. Sometimes you can feel the benefits right away, and other times it can take up to 30 minutes.
After consuming an edible, THC is transformed into its psychotropic form in your liver. This is a factor in the length of time. Your daily diet, your tolerance to cannabis edibles, and other factors also come into play.
We are also aware that almost ANY food product can be infused with cannabis. But are you consuming foods that cause constipation, eating them while under the influence of cannabis (you might be experiencing the cravings), or combining them with cannabis oils? That might be the cause. The following foods tend to cause constipation:
- Milk/dairy
- Chocolate
- Red meat
- White rice
- White bread
- Fast food
- Frozen dinners and processed food
Vitamins and Supplements Mixed With Cannabis
The drugs and supplements you are taking should also be reviewed. Please keep in mind that despite being entirely natural, cannabis cannot be combined with all medications.
Constipation is among the unavoidable interactions and adverse effects. Vitamin D, calcium, and iron are dietary supplements and vitamins that frequently result in constipation.
It's always better to speak with your doctor before stopping any vitamins and supplements. This is particularly crucial if you lack a vitamin or if you need any for your general health and wellbeing.
The negative effects of combining cannabis and other medicines have rarely been discussed, and seeking a doctor's advice is the only real safe way to do so. To help you understand this complex medical condition, speak to a doctor who is informed about cannabis.
How to Manage and Prevent Constipation Caused by Cannabis?
The only straightforward remedy for cannabis-related constipation is to STOP doing whatever it is you're doing. Check out the tried-and-true strategies to control or even prevent it.
Change your administration strategy. Edibles, tinctures, and capsules are the most frequent causes of constipation. If you typically use these methods, consider switching to vaping or smoking.
Drink plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated whenever you consume cannabis, especially edibles. Cannabis is known to cause "cotton mouth" in some users. The cotton mouth can make you feel dehydrated which is one of the most common cause of constipation.
Keep a journal where you may record your consumption patterns. Try out different strains and products, avoid consuming edibles that contain constipating ingredients, and pay attention to how your body reacts.
Does cannabis have any digestive advantages?
Cannabis can reduce pain and reduce inflammation in the digestive system, among many other effects.
Cannabis has been used medically to treat gastrointestinal disorders like inflammatory bowel disease. Additionally, it is occasionally used to treat stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.
Conclusion
Cannabis and constipation have a paradoxical (contradictory) relationship. Cannabis use generally slows down the rate at which food moves through your body.
Despite this, evidence indicates that cannabis reduces the likelihood of getting constipated. This phenomena might be caused by unidentified endocannabinoid system mechanisms that alter the effects of cannabinoids like THC.
