The Role of Cannabis in Heartburn and Indigestion Relief

We just wrapped another holiday season, and if you’re like many, that means a whole lot of indulging just went down. Food is an integral part of the holiday run from the end of November through the end of December, and we’re far more likely to go back for seconds or thirds this time of year. Unfortunately, the pleasure can be fleeting and regret swift. After all, an upset stomach takes the fun out of pretty much anything. Luckily, cannabis may be able to help — it plays an interesting role in heartburn relief.

TUMMY TROUBLES

Indigestion describes that unpleasant feeling of fullness and abdominal pain. It’s characterized by nausea, bloating, a burning sensation, and general discomfort. Heartburn is a burning sensation in the chest that’s often worse after eating and accompanied by a bitter taste in the mouth. It’s caused by stomach acid that moves up the esophagus into the mouth, which can be triggered by certain foods and beverages, including fatty dishes, chocolate, alcohol, citrus, and peppermints — pretty typical stuff around the holidays! Both indigestion and heartburn can be common and aren’t typically cause for alarm. But that doesn’t make them enjoyable. So how can cannabis help?

THE ENDOCANNABINOID SYSTEM

The body’s endocannabinoid system is a complex neurotransmitter network that is designed to help maintain balance and wellness. Cannabinoid receptors throughout the body work hard to maintain a number of systems in the body, including many in the gastrointestinal tract. Studies in 2016 and 2017 looked at the distribution of these receptors and their subsequent influence on regulating inflammatory responses. The plant has long been associated as a viable therapeutic treatment for pain in the abdomen or general gut issues, and it’s chalked up to those anti-inflammatory properties. Essentially, the body’s natural cannabinoids get a big boost from CBD or THC that’s introduced externally. With all things cannabis, however, individual dosing will vary significantly.

GETTING STARTED

A good budtender will steer you toward a realistic starting place. Spend some time thinking about consumption methods and your ultimate goal — are you hoping for a light buzz to simultaneously address any anxiety you may have around the holiday season, or do you just want to ward off any potential stomach issues stemming from a huge meal? Ask your budtender for a few recommendations based on your intended outcome, and see how cannabis works for you.

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