Fitness is a subjective matter. For some, walking 10,000 steps a day is an achievement, while for others, it takes a high-intensity workout four times a week to feel at the top of their game. Generally, being fit is when you are in a good weight range and can move quite effortlessly. Although we are well aware of the importance of fitness in our lives, many of us avoid working out for several psychological or physical reasons. One way to turn things around and become enthusiastic about moving is with the help of CBD. This natural compound is making waves in the health world—a secret weapon for fitness enthusiasts, including professional athletes.
What makes CBD special?
The cannabis Sativa plant hosts many cannabinoids on its leaves and stems, and CBD is one of these. Most cannabinoids, such as the famous THC, cause people to become high but not CBD. Hemp-derived CBD products that have less than 0.3 percent THC in them cannot make you high. There is also no risk of increased paranoia or overdose when taking this natural compound. So a CBD product described as full spectrum THC + CBD oil means it is legal and safe as long as the THC percentage is below 0.3.
CBD affects changes through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). In a molecular design, the ECS’s main job is to keep the body in a constant state of homeostasis (optimal balance). The ECS must continually regulate critical functions in the body: temperature, appetite, hormones, sleep, etc. The ECS has its receptors moving through the mind and body to keep the balance in check, and CBD works by signaling to these receptors.
Studies on CBD are limited as most clinical trials are conducted on animals rather than humans. Nevertheless, early data shows the potential of this cannabinoid for various physical and mental health issues.
CBD’s value for your fitness journey
Many are trying CBD to enhance their fitness journey from professional athletes to gym-lovers. This cannabinoid has anti-inflammatory properties for starters. Studies show CBD is a potent painkiller that works better than morphine to treat pain. This is vital if physical issues keep you from doing the workouts you want.
CBD can provide relief if you have a slipped disk or a pulled muscle. This cannabinoid can also alleviate pain caused by chronic disorders like multiple sclerosis and fibromyalgia. Even if you have no physical challenges, CBD can relieve post-workout issues by diminishing muscle soreness and muscle damage.
If lethargy keeps you on the couch and away from the gym, CBD can help by boosting your energy. This cannabinoid works as a wake-promoting agent when taken in low doses. In contrast, it can make you tired when taken in high doses. Accordingly, it can help you come down from a workout high if you exercise before bed, and as a result, you cannot sleep.
Your fitness journey involves more than your exercise routine. Indeed, many fitness gurus like to remind us that a flat stomach is earned in the kitchen. Eating well is critical for health. No matter how many workouts you get done a week, your body and mind will suffer if you only eat unhealthy food. For some, saying no to junk food or high sugar treats daily is a huge undertaking.
If your cravings are constantly overcoming you, use CBD as your ally to help you curb these vices. In one remarkable study on opioid addicts, researchers learned how helpful CBD is to help addicts stay away from temptation during their recovery. Preliminary studies regarding CBD’s effects on people with diabetes also show this cannabinoid’s potential to regulate insulin resistance and moderate blood sugar.
It is vital to consider your mental health for a holistic approach to fitness. CBD rose to popularity because of its positive impact on mental health challenges like anxiety and depression. Such effect results from CBD’s work on serotonin-the neurotransmitter we need to keep anxiety symptoms at a minimum.
Researchers know that CBD interacts with this neurotransmitter. However, they have yet to determine whether it triggers the body to make better use of the serotonin present or encourages it to produce more of this happy chemical. This natural compound leaves its mark in GABA levels in the brain too. The latter is the primary inhibitory neurotransmitter critical to react to difficult situations more calmly.
Using CBD responsibly
Currently, the only known side effects of CBD include dry mouth, diarrhea, vomiting, and nausea. Still, researchers warn that studies on this natural compound are limited and that using it responsibly is essential to your well-being. It is also important to note that CBD stops the work of some heart medication, diet pills, and medicine that contains grapefruit. You can buy CBD Edibles So, before you take CBD, it is best to consult a medical professional to determine the best time of day to take the cannabinoid and the dose to start with.
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