Microdosing psilocybin, a compound found in magic mushrooms, is gaining attention for its potential benefits. But how does taking it on an empty stomach affect its absorption and impact?
This is a common question that many people who start microdosing have. When taken on an empty stomach, psilocybin is absorbed more quickly into the bloodstream, potentially leading to more immediate and noticeable effects. Let’s take a better look if microdosing on an empty stomach is a good idea.
Microdose vs Full Dose
Microdosing involves consuming small amounts of magic mushrooms, typically ne-tenth to one-twentieth of a standard dose. Unlike a full dose, microdosing aims to achieve subtle enhancements in cognition, mood, and creativity without the psychedelic effects being felt.
Some of the most notable benefits of microdosing include improved focus and concentration, enhanced problem-solving abilities and creativity, increased emotional well-being, reduced anxiety, boosted energy levels and motivation, and heightened introspection and self-awareness.
On the other hand, a full dose of magic mushrooms is considered an amount that will induce profound changes in perception. It will often result in effects such as visual hallucinations and distortions, intense emotional experiences ranging from euphoria to anxiety, altered perception of time and space, heightened introspection and self-reflection, and spiritual and mystical encounters.
The main difference between a full dose and a microdose is that when a full dose is taken, it’s often challenging to stay fully functional in everyday activities due to the intensity of its effects. In contrast, microdosing allows users to function normally, like they didn’t take anything at all.
Magic Mushrooms On an Empty Stomach Absorb Faster
Taking mushrooms on an empty stomach can lead to quicker absorption of psilocybin. Much like with any other substance, if there’s nothing in the stomach competing with psilocybin it will simply absorb faster.
In higher doses taking psilocybin on an empty stomach will result in faster interaction with serotonin receptors and the effects will be stronger. On the other hand, with microdosing cognitive improvements may be felt more rapidly. The faster absorption of active alkaloids in magic mushrooms usually results in more noticeable effects. Online reports claim that consuming psilocybin on an empty stomach will most likely lead to a faster onset of effects regardless of the dose.
Dosing With Food
The time and content of your meals have a big impact on how psilocybin microdoses work. It is normally advised to take psilocybin on an empty stomach as this enables quicker absorption and more rapid benefits. On the other hand, taking psilocybin with food slows down absorption, which may lessen its efficacy. This is important because given that the microdose is already rather small..
The type of food consumed also matters. Heavy or fatty foods further slow absorption, whereas lighter meals—like fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins—tend to have less impact on psilocybin absorption. It’s advisable to wait at least 30 minutes after dosing before eating to optimize psilocybin absorption.
Due to slower absorption, using psilocybin with food may lessen the intended benefits even while it could reduce the chance of stomach issues. This can provide difficulties, particularly for microdosers who depend on precise dosages. For optimal results from microdosing, psilocybin should ideally be taken on an empty stomach.
Does Microdosing Cause Nausea
When it comes to microdosing on an empty stomach one of the most common concerns is whether it causes nausea. While many people report positive experiences, some do encounter side effects. Nausea, headaches, and gastrointestinal discomfort are among the most frequently mentioned issues. These symptoms can vary greatly from person to person, and what works well for one individual may not have the same effect on another. It’s important to note that these side effects are generally mild and tend to subside as the body adjusts to the microdosing routine.
Managing nausea while microdosing can be challenging but is not impossible. Some people find that taking their microdose with a small amount of food can help mitigate nausea, even though this might slightly affect the absorption rate. Others prefer to stick to microdosing on an empty stomach and find that their bodies adapt over time. Staying hydrated and avoiding heavy, greasy foods before dosing can also help reduce the likelihood of experiencing nausea.
Personal experiences with microdosing vary widely. Some individuals have reported that they feel a bit queasy initially but that this feeling fades quickly. Others have found that they experience no nausea at all. Pay attention to what your body is telling you, and modify as necessary. Peppermint and ginger can also be used as they are considered one of the best natural remedies for nausea.
How To Combat Nausea
While experiencing nausea when microdosing is rare, it’s still possible. According to reports preparing a shroom-infused tea with lemon and ginger can be helpful. Lemon and ginger are known to aid in digestion and can potentially help break down chitin, a tough substance found in mushrooms, making them easier to digest.
If you decide to make mushroom tea, make sure not to use boiling water as high temperatures can degrade psilocybin reducing its potency. Instead, use hot water that is just below boiling temperature to steep the mushrooms, lemon, and ginger for about 10-15 minutes.
Another alternative is to use premade microdosing blends, as grounded mushrooms that are encapsulated are easier to digest.
Final Word
Microdosing magic mushrooms on an empty stomach can lead to quicker absorption and potentially stronger effects. However, it may also increase the risk of nausea and other stomach issues. While taking magic mushrooms with food might lessen these side effects, it could also reduce the overall impact of the dose.
It’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider personal tolerance and health conditions. Always approach microdosing with caution and be mindful of how your body reacts. If you want to learn more about microdosing, check out our Magic Mushroom Microdosing Guide here.