The increasing popularity of delta 8 THC in the states has created many issues regarding the safe and riskless approach to delta 8 consumption in one’s daily life. As delta 8 THC itself is not a very well-researched substance, there isn’t much information regarding the perfect use of its products.
Enthusiasts of delta 8 have to research themselves and experiment to find the right amount of delta 8 in their routine. It’s a substance that alleviates your social life and provides you with calming and euphoric feelings, but at the cost of some unwanted side effects.
One of those issues and a potential side effect of consuming delta 8 THC is constipation. Does delta 8 THC cause constipation? And if so, can it be navigated into avoiding getting constipated? In this article, we dive deep into this side effect of regular delta 8 consumption and how you can safely consume your delta 8 without getting your bowels frozen.
A bit about Delta 8 THC
Delta 8 THC is a milder, less potent sibling of Delta 9 THC (commonly known simply as THC). Usually, within the range of 0.3% of overall THC content, it’s a safer, less intoxicating variant of delta 9 THC. Due to the potency of its THC content, it is a widely legal substance available recreationally and medically, across the states, with a few exceptions.
Considering all these factors, it has had an increased usage in recent years due to the nature of its consumption. It’s available in various forms such as tinctures, vape cartridges, gummies, and other edibles. With so many ways of consumption and with little to no risks involved, it has become a fan-favourite form of cannabis.
Moving on, let’s get to our main topic of discussion.
So, can Delta 8 THC cause constipation?
Now comes the subject of our discussion; Does it cause constipation? Yes, although it is rare, you may find that regular use of Delta8 can lead to constipation in some cases.
Like other side effects, this does not affect everyone, as everyone has a unique body and metabolism. In addition, age, gender, weight, and physique play an important role in using substances such as delta 8. Then you need to consider the dosage as everyone has different tolerance levels.
Since constipation is a rare side effect of delta 8 use, it has not been thoroughly investigated. Also, there is the fact that even delta 8 itself lacks a lot of research. As the increasing use of delta 8 becomes more popular, it will be incorporated into medical research and healthcare.
As rare as the side effect itself is, one must be aware of preventive checkups. Here are a few symptoms you might be facing if delta 8 leads you to constipation:
- Difficulty using the restroom
- Feeling as if your rectum is blocked
- Hard, lumpy, or small tools
- Trouble having bowel movements
- Bloating belly
- The problem with straining to pass tools
As one faces these issues, one might find the temporary solution of consuming delta 8. Since, in the state of constipation, one feels their bowels being frozen, and the use of delta 8 opens them up.
Now, that might seem like a quick solution, but there are healthier and better alternatives to this. Those alternatives being, having a proper diet that withstands the consumption of delta 8, so that side effects like constipation can be negated. Let’s discuss that below.
How to safely navigate Delta 8 consumption to avoid constipation?
So far, we know that delta 8 can cause constipation, but it can be treated or avoided simply by just improving your diet. There are various ways you can improve your diet to prevent letting delta 8 cause constipation. Staying hydrated is one of those ways while adding fibre-rich foods to your diet is another way.
While delta 8 might be the culprit behind constipation, other factors, depending on person to person, contribute to it as well, such as:
- Sudden changes in diet
- Dehydration
- Resisting the urge to use the restroom
- Inactivity
- Eating disorders
- Neurological conditions (such as Parkinson’s)
- Problems with the digestive system
- Irritable bowel syndrome
- Excessive amounts of calcium or eating a lot of dairy products
- Other medications such as antidepressants
Though some of the problems mentioned above are not easy to get over, others can be treated with a healthier approach.
If you add enough fibre to your diet, you will find that you have fewer symptoms of constipation than before. Fibre-rich foods include whole grains, beans, dried fruits, popcorn, apples, vegetables like broccoli, berries, avocados, and potatoes.
Remember that while delta 8 is a less potent version of THC, it can still dehydrate you, which is one of the main factors that can cause constipation. Getting enough water can reverse the effects of constipation as it improves blood regulation, which helps your digestive system.
While these may seem like standard solutions, they are general, temporary advice. You should always consult your doctor or medical expert when experiencing problems like constipation. Be sure to share your feelings so they can advise you on how to navigate your delta 8 intake and avoid constipation.
Other side effects of Delta 8 THC
Besides our topic of discussion, there are other various side effects of delta 8 THC. In this section, we provide preventive information about other potential side effects of delta 8.
You may find that while delta 8 itself helps you with your routine, it may produce unwanted side effects. Those side effects include red eyes, dry mouth, trouble coordinating, slow reactions, and trouble with memory.
When finding yourself in situations where you might be facing these side effects, consult your medical expert at your earliest. And make sure you aren’t compulsively consuming delta 8.
Final thoughts
Even if it is a rare side effect, it most likely can happen due to negligence in your diet and body activity. On top of that, the dehydration one faces when consuming delta 8 THC can contribute and lead to the state of constipation.
Evelyn is an avid enthusiast of kratom. She is heavenly driven by a passion for alternative remedies and natural wellness solutions. With a background in pharmacology, she dedicates herself to staying at the forefront of research and developments in the field.
As a writer and content creator, Evelyn produces informative articles, blog posts, and videos, covering a wide range of topics that includes benefits, risks, usage tips, and the latest research findings. She aims to empower individuals to make well informed decisions about their health and wellness journey through her work, and promote safe and legal access to Kratom.
Learn more about our editorial process over here.