What to Eat Before, During and After Shrooms

Food won't make or break your mushroom day, but it has more influence than most people expect. What and when you eat affects how quickly the mushrooms kick in, how strong the peak feels, and how queasy you get on the way up. A little planning goes a long way.

Before: light and early

Many people prefer a light meal about three to four hours before, rather than a big dinner right beforehand. Here's why:

• A full stomach slows absorption. Onset can be delayed by an hour or more, and the peak can feel softer and more drawn out.
• Heavy, greasy food can make you feel sluggish and add to nausea during the come-up.
• An empty stomach for many hours can leave some people shaky or light-headed, so most people aim for the middle ground.

Good pre-trip meals: a bowl of rice and vegetables, a light soup, toast with eggs or avocado, oatmeal with fruit, or a simple salad with some protein. Keep it simple and easy to digest.

Skip: big fatty meals, very spicy food, lots of dairy if it doesn't agree with you, and anything you know upsets your stomach.

The come-up: settle your stomach

Mild nausea during the first hour is common and normal, especially with dried mushrooms. A few things help:

• Ginger: ginger tea, ginger chews or a little ginger ale. A classic for a reason.
• Small sips of water rather than big gulps.
• Fresh air and slow breathing.
• Tea instead of whole mushrooms. Many people find it gentler. See our tea guide.

Keep a bucket nearby just in case. Vomiting sometimes happens and usually brings quick relief. It rarely affects the experience much once you're past the first half hour or so.

During: keep it simple

You probably won't feel hungry at the peak, and food can taste and feel strange. Have easy options within reach for later:

• Water. Sip regularly, but don't overdo it.
• Fruit: orange slices, grapes, berries, watermelon. Juicy and refreshing.
• Crackers, pretzels or plain toast.
• Fruit juice or coconut water for a little energy.
• Herbal tea, like mint or chamomile.

Skip alcohol entirely. It adds nausea, clouds judgment and makes things less predictable. Avoid caffeine-heavy drinks too, which can add to jitters.

Have everything prepared before you start. Cooking with a stove or knives during a trip isn't a good idea.

After: comfort food time

When things wind down, a comforting meal hits the spot. Many people find they're suddenly starving. Ideas:

• A warm bowl of soup or ramen.
• Toast with butter and jam.
• Pasta, noodles or rice dishes.
• A grilled cheese sandwich.
• A pre-ordered pizza, if your sitter is happy to handle the door.

Prepping something easy in advance, or putting your sitter in charge of food, makes the comedown feel extra cozy.

The next morning

Hydrate, have a nourishing breakfast and take it easy. Eggs, oatmeal, fruit, a smoothie, or whatever makes you feel good. Many people feel a little tired and reflective; good food, a walk and some quiet time help. Our day after guide covers what's normal.

Microdosing and food

For microdoses, there's no need to fast. Most people take their dose in the morning with or after a light breakfast, which helps avoid mild stomach upset.

Quick checklist

• Light meal three to four hours before.
• Ginger and water for the come-up.
• Fruit, crackers and juice for later.
• Comfort food planned for the comedown.
• No alcohol.

For the bigger picture, read our set and setting guide and timeline guide. You must be 19 or older to shop with us, psilocybin is a controlled substance in Canada, and nobody should drive after taking mushrooms.

This guide is general information, not medical or legal advice. If you have health questions, talk to a health professional.