Cannabis-Infused Chocolate Fountains and the Health Risks of Edibles
The use of cannabis in food and drink has become increasingly popular, with cannabis-infused chocolate fountains making an appearance at weddings and “budtenders” serving cannabis cocktails. As sales of edibles continue to trend upwards, cannabis brands are promoting the idea that these products offer a healthier alternative to traditional methods of consumption such as smoking.
Kiva, a company that produces cannabis chocolate bars and fruit-flavored gummies, states on their website that edibles allow users to enjoy cannabis without the negative side effects of smoking. However, the question of whether edibles are truly a safer option is complex and not fully understood. Ryan Vandrey, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Johns Hopkins Medicine, emphasizes that there are different risks associated with the various methods of consuming cannabis.
One of the key differences with edibles is the challenge of dosing. Unlike smoking, where the effects are felt almost immediately and then fade within a few hours, edibles take longer to take effect, ranging from 30 minutes to several hours. This delayed onset can lead consumers to mistakenly consume more, resulting in potentially harmful side effects such as paranoia, delusions, and panic attacks. Data from a large hospital in Colorado showed that people who used edibles were more likely to end up in the emergency room and experience cardiovascular or acute psychiatric symptoms compared to those who smoked.
Additionally, edibles can produce a more intense high compared to smoking. James MacKillop, director of the Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Medicinal Cannabis Research at McMaster University, explains that the body metabolizes THC, the main compound in cannabis, differently when consumed as an edible, leading to a potentially stronger effect.
It’s important to note that while edibles may have less addictive potential, they can still have potent effects on individuals, potentially inducing fear and anxiety. Meanwhile, smoking any substance, including cannabis, poses a risk to lung health due to exposure to toxic chemicals and carcinogens. Vapes, while potentially less harmful in some regards, still expose the lungs to irritants, and cases of vaping-related illnesses and injuries have raised concerns among health professionals.
In summary, the debate over whether edibles are a safer alternative to smoking cannabis is ongoing and complex. The historic background of this topic should be considered, as more research and understanding of the health effects of edibles and other cannabis consumption methods is essential for making informed decisions.
Overall, while edibles may offer certain advantages in terms of dosing and potential addictive properties, they also present unique challenges and risks. As the popularity of cannabis-infused edibles continues to rise, it’s crucial for consumers to be aware of these potential health implications.
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