As an athlete, you are always looking for ways to improve your performance and reduce pain. You may have heard of CBD and wonder if it could help you too.
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. Unlike THC, it does not produce a “high.” Research suggests that CBD has various health benefits, including reducing inflammation and relieving pain.
This guide will teach you everything you need to know about using CBD as an athlete, including how it can help you and how to use it safely.
What is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. It is one of over 100 different cannabinoids, or chemicals, found in these plants.
THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is the cannabinoid that produces the “high” associated with marijuana use. CBD does not produce this effect. CBD is extracted from cannabis plants and can be made into an oil or powder. It can also be added to lotions, foods, and beverages.
Research on CBD is ongoing, but early findings suggest that it has various health benefits. These include reducing inflammation and relieving pain. CBD may also help improve sleep and reduce anxiety. These effects are likely due to its ability to interact with receptors in the brain that regulate these functions.
How Does CBD Work?
CBD works by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This is a system of receptors and chemicals that helps regulate various functions, including sleep, appetite, pain, and inflammation.
The body produces its own cannabinoids, known as endocannabinoids. These bind to cannabinoid receptors in the ECS and help maintain balance in the body.
CBD binds to these receptors and may help reduce inflammation and pain. It may also help improve sleep and reduce anxiety by binding to other receptors in the brain that regulate these functions.
What Are the Benefits of CBD for Athletes?
CBD may offer various benefits for athletes, including reducing inflammation and pain. CBD may help reduce inflammation by interacting with receptors in the immune system. This can lead to reduced joint pain and stiffness.
CBD may also help relieve pain by binding to receptors in the brain that regulate pain perception. This could help reduce post-workout aches and pains. Additionally, CBD may improve sleep quality by binding to receptors in the brain that regulate sleep. This could help you fall asleep more easily and stay asleep for longer.
CBD may also help reduce anxiety levels by binding to receptors in the brain that regulate mood. This could improve your focus and performance during competition.
How Do I Use CBD?
CBD is available in various forms, including oils, powders, and lotions. It can also be added to food and beverages.
The most common way to use CBD is by taking it orally, either in oil form or as a powder. To use CBD oil, place a few drops under your tongue and hold for 60-90 seconds before swallowing. You can also add CBD powder to water or juice and drink it. CBD can also be applied topically to the skin. This may help reduce inflammation and pain in the muscles and joints.
You can use CBD through edibles like gummies or by taking a capsule. This method may take longer to work, as the CBD must first be digested.
CBD is also available in a form that can be vaporized and inhaled. This method may work more quickly, as the CBD is absorbed through the lungs and enters the bloodstream directly.
It’s important to start with a low dose when using CBD for the first time and increase gradually as needed. It’s also important to use a high-quality product from a reputable source.
Are There Any Side Effects?
Most people tolerate CBD well, but some may experience side effects, including:
- Dry mouth: Cannabinoids like CBD can decrease saliva production. This can lead to dry mouth.
- Drowsiness: CBD may cause drowsiness or sleepiness. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery after taking CBD.
- Diarrhea: CBD may cause diarrhea, especially when taken in high doses.
- Appetite changes: CBD may increase or decrease appetite. It’s best to start with a small dose and increase as needed.
CBD is also known to interact with some medications, so be sure to talk to your doctor before taking it if you’re on any medication.
Are There Any Risks?
CBD is generally considered safe, but it can have side effects, and it may interact with some medications. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking CBD if you have any concerns.
Additionally, be sure to purchase CBD from a reputable source. Some products may not contain the amount of CBD listed on the label, or they may contain contaminants.
To avoid these risks, only purchase CBD products from a reputable source, and be sure to check the label to make sure you’re getting what you expect.
The Bottom Line
CBD is a compound found in cannabis that may offer various benefits for athletes, including reducing inflammation and pain. CBD is available in various forms, including oils, powders, and lotions. It’s important to start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed.
Most people tolerate CBD well, but some may experience side effects, including dry mouth, drowsiness, diarrhea, and appetite changes. Be sure to talk to your doctor before taking CBD if you have any concerns. Only purchase CBD products from a reputable source to avoid risks like contamination.
Thank you for reading! I hope this guide was helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. Have a great day!
The published material expresses the position of the author, which may not coincide with the opinion of the editor.