Why do edibles not affect some people? Factors that impact cannabis edibles not working

There are several reasons why edibles may not work for you, even if you have no issue with other forms of cannabis ingestion. Some of the most common factors that can impact the effectiveness of edibles include:

Individual differences in liver metabolism that affect how edibles are processed

One of the main reasons edibles don’t work for some people has to do with individual differences in liver metabolism. When you eat an edible, the THC is processed by the liver before entering the bloodstream, converting it into a more potent form called 11-hydroxy-THC. However, some people lack the enzymes needed to perform this conversion, making edibles less effective for them.

Taking edibles on a full vs empty stomach – food impacts absorption

What you’ve eaten can also greatly impact an edible’s effects. Taking edibles on an empty stomach allows more THC to be absorbed, while a full stomach can slow down and reduce absorption. High-fat meals can also increase THC absorption. So if your edibles aren’t working, try taking them in a different food context.

Can tolerance to edibles develop? How tolerance impacts edibles not working

Yes, it’s possible to develop a tolerance to edibles over time, especially if you consume them frequently. As with other forms of cannabis ingestion, regularly taking edibles can lead to needing progressively higher doses to feel the same effects. Taking a “tolerance break” of several days to a few weeks and then resuming with a lower dose can help reset your tolerance.

“Ingesting cannabis by eating it undergoes a very different metabolic process than smoking it. This can lead to cross-tolerance not developing between edibles and smoking.”

Interestingly, studies have found that tolerance to edibles vs smoking can develop separately. So if you primarily smoke cannabis and then try edibles, a tolerance to smoking may not translate into an edibles tolerance (and vice versa). The different metabolic processes mean cross-tolerance doesn’t always occur.

How can I increase the potency of edibles? Tips to make edibles work better

If you find that your cannabis edibles are not working, there are a few things you can try to increase their potency and effectiveness for you:

  • Take edibles on an empty stomach or with a high-fat meal to increase absorption
  • Try a different type of edible, as some may work better for you than others
  • Increase your dose gradually until you find an amount that produces the desired effect
  • Make sure your edibles are fresh and properly stored, as potency can degrade over time
  • Take a tolerance break if you use edibles regularly and have developed a high tolerance

By understanding the factors involved and making smart adjustments, most people can find a way to get edibles to work optimally for them. If issues persist, consult a cannabis-informed doctor to rule out any medical concerns or interactions.

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