Does Weed Cause Dehydration? Everything You Need to Know

Do you think weed sucks the moisture out of your body when you reach for a glass of water after smoking a joint or taking THC or CBD gummies? You are not alone. Many users feel thirsty or dehydrated when they consume weed. But does weed dehydrate you, or is there no link with dehydration and cannabis?

A feeling of thirst and a parched mouth are some of the expected effects of cannabis consumption, which are somewhat similar to the symptoms of dehydration. 

Let's explore why weed can leave you feeling parched and whether smoking weed actually dehydrates you.

Weed and hydration: How Weed Affects the Body's Water Levels 

Dry mouth is a common side effect of cannabis use, which we perceive as dehydration. It isn't caused by dehydration, it happens when THC binds to cannabinoid receptors in the endocannabinoid system, resulting in the salivary glands not producing sufficient saliva to keep your mouth wet. 

Cannabis consumption doesn't affect the body's water and electrolyte levels, which is the main cause of dehydration. The only and rarest occasion when cannabis use causes dehydration is CHS or cannabinoid hyperemesis syndrome, a condition that can lead to a severe bout of vomiting.

Does Weed Cause Dehydration?

Dehydration occurs when your body loses more water and fluids than it takes in, resulting in extreme thirst, a dry mouth, dizziness, or fatigue. Weed does not cause dehydration directly, but it can indirectly trigger thirst when THC binds to cannabinoid receptors, preventing your salivary glands from producing saliva. 

The temporary reduction in saliva production sends signals that you are thirsty and you need to hydrate, regardless of how hydrated you actually are. Dry or cotton mouth is often linked to dehydration, but it isn't always caused by dehydration. 

One study shows that THC binds with CB1 receptors, which are directly responsible for saliva production. So, while you may feel thirsty and experience dry mouth after using cannabis, there is no scientific evidence that cannabis directly causes dehydration.

Symptoms of Dehydration after Cannabis Consumption

Consuming cannabis not only comes with a cannabis high, but it can also bring a list of after-effects that are similar to symptoms of dehydration. In a conventional sense, cannabis doesn't cause dehydration, but it may cause dry mouth. However, if you are mildly dehydrated before consuming cannabis, the symptoms can become severe as your body's water level is low. The human body relies on water, and fluid imbalance can prevent the body from carrying out its regular functions optimally. So, it is essential to maintain a healthy hydration routine before you consume cannabis.

Here are some of the common symptoms of dehydration:

• Intense thirst 

• Headache

• Fatigue

• Dry mouth

• Irritability

• Dizziness 

• Confusion 

• White tongue

• Muscle cramp

  

As cannabis use and dehydration share similar symptoms, people who are already dehydrated while consuming weed may experience more intense after-effects or weed hangover symptoms compared to those who consume cannabis while hydrated.

How to Stop Dry Mouth from Weed

Smoking weed or consuming edibles can cause dry or cottonmouth. Though you may not be able to completely prevent dry mouth after consuming weed, there are a few ways to manage the discomfort and ease the feeling of dehydration.

Avoid alcohol when smoking weed:

To reduce the risk of dry mouth, it is recommended to avoid combining alcohol with smoking weed because alcohol can increase the intensity of dehydration symptoms. To avoid alcohol, you should also avoid taking caffeinated drinks if you feel hangover symptoms the next day after smoking weed. Caffeine may help you feel more alert, but it does have a diuretic effect. 

Try a different method of cannabis consumption:

Smoking weed can have an adverse effect on your oral health compared to consuming it in the form of edibles, capsules, or tinctures. So, it may be best to try different methods of cannabis consumption to reduce the risk of dry mouth and prevent more serious oral health conditions related to smoking, such as tooth decay, plaque buildup, and more.

Opt for healthy foods and snacks:

THC binds to CB1 receptors, which may also heighten your appetite and lead to those infamous munchies. You should be mindful of what snacks you take when smoking weed, as they may spark a sudden snack marathon. Consuming a large amount of salty or processed snacks can raise your sodium levels, making you thirstier as your body works to regulate the sodium-water ratio. 

Without sufficient fluids, your body pulls water from cells, resulting in dehydration. Therefore, opt for healthy snacks and food that help maintain the body's water level and make you feel less thirsty. Take foods that are rich in water include celery, cucumber, watermelon, and strawberries. 

Drink plenty of water and stock up on hydrating drinks:

To prevent dehydration, drink plenty of water. It will not only keep you hydrated but also reduce the intensity of a weed hangover. If drinking too much water is difficult for you, consider stocking up on other hydrating drinks to reduce the risk of dry mouth and dehydration. For instance, coconut water contains several electrolytes, helping the body maintain fluid balance. 

Skimmed milk is another hydrating drink you can take, which is considered even more hydrating than water. Drinking hydrating beverages, such as fruit juice, and making fruit and vegetable smoothies are also great options to keep your body hydrated.

Get top-tier weed products at less than top-shelf prices at Smokeland!

Want top-quality weed products without breaking the bank? At Smokeland, we've got you covered. We're proud to be your go-to cannabis delivery service in California, offering premium products at unbeatable prices. Plus, you'll always find great deals on your favorite products (hint: something's always on sale). Order premium cannabis products online now!

Select Your Weed Delivery Location in California!

Level up your cannabis game with Smokeland—the go-to spot for California’s cannabis consumers who know quality when they see it. Don’t settle. Shop now!