Pies & Highs: Our Holiday Edible Guide

The holiday season is upon us, and with Thanksgiving just around the corner, it's time to embrace the food, the family, and the cannabis-infused treats. Whether you’re looking to indulge in cannabis edibles before the turkey is served or after the pumpkin pie, understanding how your body processes edibles on a full stomach versus edibles on an empty stomach can significantly impact your experience. With a little guidance, you can maximize your cannabis-infused holiday fun and avoid the classic "oops" moments of overindulgence.

So, let’s explore the differences between eating edibles on a full stomach and eating edibles on an empty stomach, and how to enjoy them best this Thanksgiving!

The Basics of Edibles: How They Work

When it comes to cannabis, edibles are a unique experience. Unlike smoking, where THC enters your bloodstream almost immediately through your lungs, edibles go through your digestive system. Once eaten, the THC is processed by your liver, where it’s converted into a more potent compound—11-hydroxy-THC—that produces longer-lasting effects.

Whether you consume edibles on a full stomach or edibles on an empty stomach, the way THC is absorbed and metabolized will vary depending on the state of your stomach. Let’s break it down and see how each situation can impact your Thanksgiving experience.

Eating Edibles on an Empty Stomach: What to Expect

Faster Onset and Stronger Effects

When you consume edibles on an empty stomach, your body absorbs the THC more quickly because there is no other food slowing down the digestive process. As a result, the effects of the edible may hit you faster—sometimes within 15-30 minutes.

Why Edibles on an Empty Stomach Might Be a Good Idea:

• Faster onset of effects can be ideal if you want to feel the buzz before the turkey is served.
• If you're looking for a quick, intense high to enjoy during dinner or post-meal relaxation, edibles on an empty stomach can provide a fast and satisfying experience.
• The effects tend to be more potent, giving you a more immersive experience—perfect for those looking to feel completely lifted.

The Drawbacks of Edibles on an Empty Stomach:

• Edibles on an empty stomach can sometimes result in a stronger, more overwhelming high than expected. If you’re not accustomed to strong edibles, this could lead to anxiety or discomfort.
• The effects can sometimes be disorienting, especially if you're not planning to be in a controlled environment.
• It can be easy to overindulge if you don't pace yourself, especially when the onset is faster and more intense.

Pro Tip: If you're planning to enjoy edibles on an empty stomach, be sure to start with a low dose (5-10mg of THC) to avoid any overwhelming effects. It's better to start small and work your way up.

Eating Edibles on a Full Stomach: A Slower, Steadier High

Slower Onset, Milder Effects

When you consume edibles on a full stomach, the process slows down. The food in your stomach needs to be digested first, which means the THC will take longer to be absorbed into your bloodstream. This leads to a delayed onset, typically taking 1-2 hours for the effects to kick in, but they are usually milder and more manageable.

Why Edibles on a Full Stomach Might Be Better:

• If you’re having a large Thanksgiving meal, edibles on a full stomach can prevent you from feeling overly high too quickly. This allows you to enjoy your food and the company of family and friends without feeling too buzzed.
• The slower onset of edibles on a full stomach can result in a more gradual, sustained high, which is great for those who want to maintain a pleasant buzz throughout the day without any sudden peaks or crashes.
• It’s easier to enjoy your meal and relax, as edibles on a full stomach are less likely to cause nausea or discomfort compared to consuming them on an empty stomach.

The Drawbacks of Edibles on a Full Stomach:

• Because the onset is slower, you might be tempted to take more, thinking the first dose didn’t work. Be sure to wait at least 2 hours before considering a second dose to avoid accidentally overdoing it.
• For some people, edibles on a full stomach might not produce the same intensity of effects as they would on an empty stomach, leading to a less “elevated” feeling.

Pro Tip: If you’re eating edibles on a full stomach, plan ahead and be patient. Eat your meal, then wait an hour or more before consuming the edibles so you can experience the effects at a comfortable pace.

The Best Timing for Edibles on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a time to enjoy food, family, and, for some, cannabis-infused treats. Depending on your preference for edibles on a full stomach or edibles on an empty stomach, the timing of your consumption will make all the difference in your experience. Here are some tips for each scenario:

1. Before the Meal: Edibles on an Empty Stomach

If you’re looking for a buzz before the meal, try consuming edibles on an empty stomach about 30 minutes before sitting down to eat. The effects will come on quickly, and you’ll be able to enjoy a more intense, fast-acting high during the early part of your gathering. Just be cautious of overdoing it, as the effects can escalate quickly.

2. During the Meal: Edibles on a Full Stomach

Consuming edibles on a full stomach during the meal can be a great way to prolong the holiday fun without feeling too high right off the bat. If you’re looking to enjoy a mild buzz while savoring every bite of turkey and stuffing, this is the way to go. You can eat a small dose of edibles after your main meal and let the effects gradually set in.

3. After the Meal: A Perfect Time for Edibles on a Full Stomach

After the big meal, when your stomach is satisfied and full, edibles on a full stomach can be a great way to relax and unwind. At this point, the delayed onset won’t interfere with your enjoyment of dessert or your post-feast nap. Just be sure to wait a bit before taking your edible to ensure you’re not still feeling too full.

Maximizing Your Thanksgiving Edible Experience

Thanksgiving is a time to relax, indulge, and enjoy good company. Whether you prefer edibles on a full stomach or edibles on an empty stomach, the key is to know your body and start slow. Here are some tips to ensure you have the best experience:

• Start Small: No matter what your stomach is like, always start with a low dose. Begin with 5-10mg of THC, and wait at least 2 hours before taking more. This gives you enough time to gauge how the edible is affecting you.
• Hydrate and Snack: Keep some water or a non-alcoholic drink nearby, and snack on some holiday treats to keep your stomach happy.
• Know Your Tolerance: Everyone reacts differently to edibles, so be mindful of how much you’ve consumed in the past. If you’re new to edibles, start with edibles on a full stomach to ease into it more slowly.
• Enjoy Responsibly: Cannabis can enhance the holiday spirit, but moderation is key. There’s no rush—enjoy your Thanksgiving meal and the experience of edibles at your own pace.

In Conclusion, Full or Empty Stomach—It’s Your Call

Whether you choose edibles on a full stomach or edibles on an empty stomach, your Thanksgiving can be made even more special with a little cannabis indulgence. Understanding the differences in how your body processes edibles in each scenario can help you fine-tune your experience, ensuring you’re relaxed, happy, and in the right mood to enjoy everything this holiday has to offer.

From intense highs to gradual, mellow buzzes, your ideal edible experience depends on your timing, dose, and, of course, your stomach’s state. So, as you sit down to your Thanksgiving feast, don’t forget to include some cannabis edibles for the perfect elevated holiday celebration.

Happy Thanksgiving, and may your day be full of delicious food, great company, and the right amount of buzz! 🦃🍁🌿