The popularity of CBD products is constantly on the rise. Many users are choosing CBD not just for recreational purposes but also for the countless health benefits it brings. CBD has many beneficial uses, whether it is pain management or relief from anxiety.
However, as more and more users continue to enter the CBD market, one question arises frequently: whether CBD should be taken on a full or empty stomach. To answer this question effectively, we must understand the pros and cons of consuming CBD on an empty or full stomach. We also need to know how CBD interacts with the body and what factors impact its absorption.
In this article, we will discuss all the above and help you make an informed decision about your CBD consumption. This way, you can enjoy your CBD experience to the fullest.
What Is Bioavailability?
Bioavailability is the amount of substance or nutrient absorbed by the body and is now available for the body to use. Where CBD is concerned, bioavailability refers to the amount of CBD that enters the bloodstream after consumption. This is the CBD that is available to provide the desired results.
The mode of consumption of CBD has a huge impact on the bioavailability of the cannabinoid. When taken in an edible form, CBD must be digested before it can reach the liver to be metabolized. As a result, the amount of CBD available for the body to utilize lowers significantly.
Taking sublingually means placing the CBD directly under the tongue. This way, the digestive system is bypassed, and the absorption is faster and greater. This method makes sure that the bioavailability of CBD is higher.
The bioavailability of CBD can also vary due to other factors, such as the composition of the CBD product, the presence of other ingredients, and changes from person to person metabolism.
If bioavailability is high, more CBD is available for the body. This will ensure that the effects produced by CBD are stronger and the onset is quicker. At the same time, if bioavailability is low, a higher dose may be needed to produce the required results.
Taking CBD On a Full Stomach
CBD, or cannabidiol, can be consumed in many ways. It can be taken as CBD oils, sublingually, as CBD tinctures, or as vapes. When choosing CBD edibles, knowing all the pros and cons of consuming them on a full stomach is a good idea.
This is because CBD has to pass through the digestive system into the bloodstream before it can kick in. If there is food present in the stomach, it will have an impact on how the CBD is absorbed.
Pros
Absorption Will Be Greater
If taken with food, CBD will have a chance to stay in the digestive tract longer. This will give the body a greater opportunity to absorb the cannabinoid, so more will enter the bloodstream.
Lower Doses Will Be Needed
Since the absorption of CBD is greater on a full stomach, users will need to take lower doses to get the desired results.
Longer Lasting Experience
When taken on a full stomach, the absorption process of CBD will take longer. The CBD will be released slowly into the bloodstream, so the effects will last longer, prolonging the experience.
Cons
Lower Bioavailability
When taken with food, the absorption of CBD will be lower, and therefore, the bioavailability will be reduced.
Delayed Onset
The slower absorption of CBD on a full stomach will mean the onset of the effects will also be later.
Taking CBD On An Empty Stomach
Some users might want to take CBD before eating. Here we have discussed the benefits and drawbacks of doing so.
Pros
Faster Absorption
When taken on an empty stomach, the CBD gets absorbed much faster. This is because no other food is present to slow down the digestion process.
Faster Onset Of Effects
The effects of CBD will manifest quicker when consumed on an empty stomach.
Cons
Shorter Duration Of Effects
Just as the effects will manifest faster, they will disappear faster if CBD is consumed on an empty stomach.
Stomach Discomfort
Taking CBD on an empty stomach may cause gastrointestinal problems. Since no food is present in the stomach, the stomach lining will be directly exposed to the cannabinoid and can be irritated. This may result in an upset stomach, cramps, or nausea.
Which Foods Should I Eat Before Consuming CBD?
Before consuming CBD, eating foods rich in fatty acids is a good idea. These foods with both medium-chain and long-chain fatty acids provide CBD with good binding agents. This way the stomach will find it easier to break down the CBD once it is bound to the fatty acids.
Foods rich in medium-chain fatty acids include milk, palm, and coconut. Foods rich in long-chain fatty acids include olive oil, fatty fish like herrings and sardines, avocados, nuts, and meat.
What Factors Affect CBD Absorption?
Being taken on a full or empty stomach is not the only factor determining CBD’s absorption into the bloodstream. Many other factors also impact the level or rate of absorption.
Mode Of Consumption
Different modes of consumption have different rates of absorption. For example, when CBD is inhaled or vaped, it enters the bloodstream directly through the lungs, so the absorption is quick. CBD needs to pass through the digestive system as edibles, and the absorption rate is much slower.
The concentration Of CBD In The Product
The higher the concentration of CBD in the product, the faster and greater the absorption rate and vice versa. The presence of carrier oils will also affect its rate of absorption.
Individual Factors
Many individual factors affect how fast or slow CBD gets absorbed by the body. The body weight, metabolism, and age of the individual determine not just the absorption rate but also how CBD interacts with the body.
Quality Of The Product
Good quality CBD products with little to no impurities have a faster absorption rate. Products of a higher quality undergo better extraction techniques and are capable of being absorbed faster.
What Are Some General Guidelines For CBD Consumption?
It is essential to follow general guidelines and instructions when taking CBD. it is even more important to follow these recommendations when consuming CBD for the first time. This will allow you to enjoy your CBD experience to the fullest.
Always Start With a Low Dose
Starting with a small dose is advisable to observe better how your body responds to the cannabinoid. Start with a small dose and then increase gradually for best results.
Keep Individual Factors In Mind
Before consuming a new product, always consider your factors. These include your age, weight, rate of metabolism, overall health, and if you are using any other medicines.
Select a Good Quality Product
This will help you be sure that the CBD you are consuming is free from contaminants and is of the potency mentioned on the packaging.
Make Sure There Is No THC Present
Some CBD products have trace amounts of THC present in them. This is a psychoactive compound with its own set of directions and effects. Being mindful of its presence will allow you to enjoy your CBD safely.
Adjust Your Dosage Carefully
If you are a new user, observing your body’s responses to CBD and adjusting the dosage accordingly is advisable.
Consult With a Medical Expert
In case of any health concerns or if you experience any unpleasant symptoms, visit a medical expert to get guidance.
By following these guidelines, you can be sure to enjoy your CBD experience without worry.
Final Word
To sum it up, we can safely say that taking CBD on a full stomach or empty depends on many factors and your personal choices. Taking CBD on a full stomach will ensure a more prolonged experience without causing any uncomfortable side effects. However, if taken on an empty stomach, the effects’ absorption and onset are much faster.
Many individual factors will determine each user’s experience. These should all be considered when deciding how and when to take CBD. There is no fixed answer to everyone’s needs; experimentation is one way to find what suits you best. Keep changing your dosage and timing of consumption, observe the results, and make an informed decision. Take advice from medical experts to determine what suits you best.
