Medical Marijuana Edibles in Louisiana: Should You Eat Before Taking Them?
- Isabella Romo
- 6 days ago
- 5 min read
Updated: 5 days ago
As Louisiana’s medical marijuana program continues to grow, more patients are discovering the benefits of THC-infused edibles like tinctures, oils, and capsules. Edibles offer a discreet, smoke-free way to experience long-lasting relief from chronic pain, anxiety, nausea, and other qualifying conditions.
But if you're new to cannabis edibles, you’ve probably asked yourself:
"Should I eat before taking an edible?"
It’s a simple question – with a surprisingly important answer.
How Do Edibles Work?
When you inhale cannabis, through smoking or vaping, THC enters your bloodstream quickly through your lungs, and the effects hit within minutes.
But with edibles, it’s a different story.
When you consume an edible, the THC travels through your digestive system where it’s metabolized by your liver into a more potent compound. This process:
Delays the onset (it usually takes 45 to 120 minutes to feel the effects)
Makes the effects stronger and longer-lasting
Can feel very different from smoking or vaping
Empty Stomach vs. Full Stomach: What’s the Difference?
Here are some key differences you can expect to notice when taking an edible on an empty stomach compared to taking one after eating a meal. In addition to the timing and intensity of the effects, your overall experience can vary significantly depending on how much food is in your system.
Eating Edibles on an Empty Stomach
Here’s what you can expect if you take an edible on an empty stomach:
A faster onset of the effects
More intense effects
The potential of nausea, anxiety, or dizziness for beginners
If you’re taking an edible without eating first, you should cut your dose in half – especially if it’s your first time. While you may feel the effects quicker, you’re also more likely to feel overwhelmed if you’re not used to THC.
Eating Edibles on a Full Stomach
When you take an edible on a full stomach, you can expect:
Slower onset (it can take up to 2 hours to feel the full effect)
Milder, steadier high
Effects last longer
This is the recommended approach for most beginners. Taking an edible after a meal slows the absorption, making the experience smoother and more manageable.
Beginner’s Guide: How Much Should I Take?
If you’re new to cannabis edibles, the golden rule is simple: Start low, go slow.
Most beginners should begin with 2.5 to 5 mg of THC and wait at least 90 to 120 minutes before considering another dose. Edibles can take time to kick in, and taking more too soon is the most common mistake.
Quick Tips for First-Time Users:
Talk to Your Doctor: Get evaluated by a certified Louisiana medical marijuana physician to determine if cannabis is right for you – that's where we come in!
Choose a Low-Dose Product: Many dispensaries offer beginner-friendly edibles with measured THC doses.
Be Patient: Effects aren’t instant. Give your body time to absorb the edible before taking more.
Stay Hydrated & Relax: Have water nearby and stay in a calm, comfortable environment.
Track Your Experience: Note the dose, timing, and how you feel. It helps refine what works best for you.
Following these steps can help you have a safe, comfortable, and positive experience with
edibles!
Why Edibles Are Popular and How to Get Them Legally in Louisiana
Medical marijuana edibles have become a go-to option for many patients across Louisiana. They offer long-lasting symptom relief, are discreet and easy to use, and are especially helpful for nighttime use, chronic conditions, or for patients who prefer not to inhale smoke or vapor.
Thanks to our telemedicine evaluations and an expanding list of qualifying conditions, it's now easier than ever to access medical marijuana edibles legally in Louisiana. Here's how the process works:
Have a Qualifying Condition: Common qualifying conditions include Cancer, PTSD, Seizure disorders, Crohn's disease, Glaucoma, and HIV/AIDS, among others.
Provide Proof of Louisiana Residency: A valid ID is required to show you live in the state.
Talk to a Certified Doctor: You’ll need a recommendation and prescription from a Louisiana-licensed physician. That’s where we come in!
Patient Registry: Once approved, you'll be added to the state’s medical marijuana database, giving you access to your recommended dosage.
Visit a Licensed Dispensary: You can only purchase edibles from state-authorized dispensaries. Louisiana law limits edibles to 8mg THC per serving.
Consume Privately: Medical edibles must be used at home; public use is still prohibited.
Ready to Try Medical Marijuana Edibles?
If you’re managing a condition that could benefit from cannabis, you may be eligible for Louisiana’s medical marijuana program. With our telehealth evaluations available, you can get approved from the comfort of your home and gain access to licensed dispensaries offering safe, lab-tested products made for medical use.
Whether or not you eat before taking an edible depends on your goals. For a gentler, slower onset, eat a meal first. If you’re experienced and want faster, stronger effects, you can try an edible on an empty stomach, just start with a lower dose and proceed with caution.
No matter your experience level, edibles can be a safe, effective way to find long-lasting relief when used mindfully.
Ready to Get Started?
Our team at Louisiana Marijuana Card is here to guide you through every step. Schedule your appointment today and take the first step toward better health.
Get Your Medical Marijuana Card Today!
Medical marijuana is legal in the state of Louisiana, and you can get your medical marijuana card today! It is now easier than ever to get your card, so if you think marijuana may benefit you, what are you waiting for?
If you aren’t sure if you qualify for a card, we can help! Just give us a call and we can answer any questions you may have.
Marijuana is an excellent alternative medicine that offers natural, safe, and legal relief for an array of symptoms. If you think marijuana could help some of your symptoms, what are you waiting for?
Schedule an evaluation online today with one of our knowledgeable, compassionate doctors to see if you qualify for your medical card. Not only will you discuss your condition and options, but you can do so through a virtual appointment in the safety of your own home!
Doctors Who Care.
Relief You Can Trust.
At Louisiana Marijuana Card, our mission is helping everyone achieve wellness safely and conveniently through increased access to medical marijuana. Our focus on education, inclusion, and acceptance will reduce the stigma for our patients by providing equal access to timely information and compassionate care.
Call us at (833) 253-2943, or simply book a medical marijuana evaluation to start getting relief you can trust today!
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