6 Ways Athletes Can Benefit From CBD
Relieve pain
Cannabis has been shown to be effective in reducing pain, including musculoskeletal pain from exercise and stiff joints. CBD appears to be the most effective cannabinoid for pain relief, although more research is needed in this area. CBD does not produce the psychoactive effects associated with THC, making it a safe and effective option for those who want the medical benefits of cannabis without the high. While more research is needed, CBD is a promising option for athletes who are looking for safe and effective pain relief.
Alternative to NSAIDs
Despite the risks associated with NSAIDs, many athletes continue to use them on a regular basis. For some, the risk of renal damage is worth the pain relief that these drugs provide. Others may believe that they can minimize the risks by using NSAIDs only when necessary. However, the risks of heart attack and stroke are significant enough that all athletes should be aware of them before making the decision to use these drugs.
Athletes who are looking for an alternative to NSAIDs may want to consider acetaminophen CBD. It is non-addictive and does not interact with other medications, making it a safe choice for athletes who have to manage pain with medication. CBD is also non-toxic, so it doesn’t pose the same risks as NSAIDs, which can cause gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers, the tastiest delta 8 gummies are a welcome alternative to relieve pain. Studies have shown that CBD is just as effective as NSAIDs at reducing pain, without the associated risks. For athletes who are looking for a safe and effective way to manage pain, it’s recommended to look into CBD and how to can decrease reliance on NSAIDs, particularly for pain management and recovery.
Alternative to opioids
Unlike opioids, which work by binding to pain receptors in the brain, cannabinoids interact with the body’s endocannabinoid system. This system helps to regulate a variety of functions, including pain, appetite, mood, and memory. While cannabinoids are not as effective as opioids for acute pain relief, they may be useful for managing chronic pain. Additionally, cannabinoids carry a much lower risk of dependence and overdose than opioids. As our understanding of the endocannabinoid system grows, cannabinoids may become an important tool in the fight against the opioid epidemic.
Reduce inflammation
It’s well-known that inflammation can be beneficial for athletes, aiding in their recovery and performance. However, too much inflammation can have the opposite effect. CBD has been shown to help reduce inflammation by binding to CB2 receptors. This helps to dial down the response of the immune system, resulting in less inflammation. As a result, CBD can be a helpful tool for athletes who are looking to manage their inflammation and improve their recovery.
Improve gut health
CBD has shown to be effective in reducing symptoms for those with underlying inflammation issues that contribute to gut problems during or after exercise. CBD works by interacting with CB1 and CB2 receptors in the colon, which helps to inhibit colitis symptoms. (8) While CBD won’t solve stomach problems from dehydration and overheating, it can be helpful for managing gut problems that are caused by inflammation. Therefore, CBD may be a useful tool for athletes who suffer from GI distress.
Get better sleep
As any athlete knows, getting enough sleep is essential for peak performance. However, many athletes struggle to get a good night’s sleep, leading to fatigue and decreased performance. CBD may be an effective way to improve sleep quality, as it has been shown to inhibit the reuptake of adenosine.
CBD works by interacting with the body’s natural endocannabinoid system, which plays an important role in regulating sleep. The more adenosine that is available, the easier it is to fall and stay asleep. While sleeping, the body metabolizes adenosine, which leads to wakefulness.
By binding to the same receptors that adenosine binds to, CBD helps to increase levels of adenosine in the brain more quickly. This helps to induce sleep and can also help to reduce anxiety levels, which can often be a cause of insomnia. Therefore, CBD may be an effective way to improve sleep quality for those who struggle with sleeplessness.