Interested in how CBD can potentially benefit your health and fitness? You’re not alone. More health-minded individuals are being drawn to CBD and its perceived uses. One such use rapidly rising in popularity is in aiding exercise and workout recovery.
As lawmakers work to further legalize marijuana and industrial hemp, researchers work to unravel the biochemical properties behind the compound and its budding uses. Here is a brief breakdown of what these researchers are saying about CBD and how it could theoretically support your exercise routine.
What Is CBD?
It’s important to note CBD oil is not “pot” nor is it considered a performance enhancing drug. One of the many compounds found in the cannabis plant, Cannabidiol, or CBD, is what’s known as a cannabinoid.
Cannabinoids work within the human body’s endocannabinoid system to trigger responses and in turn produce effects on our cognitive and physical processes. Most CBD oils exclude the more well-known cannabinoid Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and don’t produce the effect of getting “high.”
The Uses of CBD in Terms of Exercise and Fitness
CBD’s upswing in popularity has brought much to light regarding its health benefits. The trend now is to use it to boost athletic performance, but does it work? Here are some of the potential benefits of CBD:
Supporting a Better Night’s Sleep
Why are more athletes incorporating CBD into their routines? The answer is simple: sleep. As one of the greatest factors in recovery, restful sleep is a powerful weapon in an athlete’s arsenal. Evidence suggests CBD may influence sleep quality due to cannabinoids interacting with related receptors in the brain.
Supporting a Healthy Inflammatory Response
Discomfort after intensive exercise is a common setback for many athletes. While CBD cannot cure aches, it might help address them by minimizing inflammation post-workout. Studies point to a reduction in inflammation as key to lessening aches associated with normal muscle discomfort and CBD can help support the body’s natural inflammatory response.
Aiding in Muscle Recovery
As part of the ability to support the body’s inflammatory response, CBD can help when it comes to muscle recovery. As muscles are exercised rigorously, they get tiny tears triggering inflammation. The body responds by repairing the damaged tissue and building it back stronger to get gains. CBD supports this process by helping the body to ease inflammation and the subsequent discomfort.
Ways to Incorporate CBD Into Your Routine
There are many common forms of CBD and dosage can vary based on personal health. Always consult your doctor or health care provider before taking any supplements including CBD oil and other CBD products.
While CBD oil is a common go-to, you can find plenty of specialized products intended for supplementing exercise on the market today. Below are some of the typical forms you’ll find and ways to take them.
- Edibles. From gummies to pre- and post-workout protein mixes, there are a lot of choices. Carefully read labels and follow dosage instructions as edibles, like all CBD products, can have a different effect on everyone.
- CBD oils and tinctures. CBD oils and tinctures come in many concentrates and may be marketed under different terms. It’s important to research the ingredients before making your purchase. They can be added to foods and drinks, such as smoothies or a soothing tea, to be taken before or after exercise.
- Tablets and softgels. Easy for taking on the go or with a morning multivitamin, this form is straightforward and can be combined with other elements. The market is filled with capsules combining CBD with probiotics, melatonin, and several other supplements aimed to enhance wellness.
- Lotions and creams. Applying CBD ointments to your muscles after a workout could not only be potentially beneficial but it can be soothing as well. Like the capsules mentioned above, there are plenty of products available mixing CBD with helpful components such as lavender and aloe vera.
Next Steps
If you’re looking to supplement your workouts, talk with your doctor or a specialist about adding CBD to your wellness approach. For further ways CBD can potentially help with your gains, please see the accompanying resource.
This infographic was created by Neurogan
Author bio:
Nicklas Brandrup is a co-founder at Neurogan. Brandrup is a serial entrepreneur with a proven track record in the health and wellness space. He is passionate about climate, animal sanctuaries, and enjoys supporting his local community of aspiring entrepreneurs. Through educational content and knowledge-sharing, he hopes to teach people about the growing impact of natural remedies.