If you are an athlete trying to improve your performance and health, cannabidiol may be the answer. Here are health benefits of CBD for athletes.
When a person’s body is aching, it’s hard to function, especially athletes. According to studies, more than 2,000 injuries occur per 10,000 workers.
As you can imagine, sports injuries are cause for a substantial need for pain relievers. Unfortunately, prescription meds aren’t the safest. Not only can they cause harmful side effects, but they could create dependency.
On the contrary, CBD for athletes is a better solution. It’s the all-natural alternative to pain relief that also enhances overall health.
Keep reading to learn how CBD can soothe aches and pains.
What Is CBD?
CBD, also known as cannabidiol, is a chemical compound that comes from the cannabis Sativa plant. The cannabinoids extracted from the plant have properties that provide an array of health benefits.
Broad-spectrum CBD for athletes works exceptionally well. It includes most of the other cannabinoids that are found in the hemp plant. All these compounds work together to create the “entourage effect“. When all of the cannabinoids work together, they provide greater results than isolate CBD.
The endocannabinoid system that exists within the human body interacts with the cannabinoids found in CBD. The endo system is responsible for the functionality of the body’s sleep, appetite, mood, memory, and more.
Its receptors directly link to areas like the central nervous system and the digestive system. The compounds within cannabidiol directly interact with these receptors, helping to regulate bodily function.
Below are some of the benefits of CBD for athletes:
1. Reduces Anxiety and Stress
CDB has calming effects that can soothe stress and anxiety. For athletes who need to focus before a game or race, cannabidiol is a great option. Most competitors feel the pressure to perform, so anxiety relief is essential.
Anxiety can also hinder an athlete from training, making them too tired to complete their workout. Thankfully, CBD helps to reduce stress and boosts overall performance.
2. Induces Better Sleep
CBD can make a person feel relaxed and sleep better. Rest is essential for athletes for enhanced performance and when they’re recovering from injuries.
In order for the body to heal and repair itself, it needs sleep. When athletes are wired after a game or anxious about an upcoming competition, it could cause insomnia.
Luckily, CBD helps to resolve these issues.
3. Eases Inflammation
Inflammation occurs for many reasons, but for athletes, it’s usually a result of strenuous physical activity. Swelling can prevent competitors from performing at full capacity, and it’s painful.
The anti-inflammatory properties within CBD help to ease swelling and prevent further injury or muscle strain for athletes.
4. Healthier Alternative to Opioids
Athletes routinely experience aches and pains, depending on the type of sport they perform. Naturally, competitors rely on medication to help them manage pain.
However, dependency on opioids can create a serious problem. Athletes have a higher risk of becoming addicted to opioids because of their continuous pain and their need for relief.
On the other hand, CBD provides pain relief without creating the same dependency as pain meds. Even if an athlete uses CBD regularly, it doesn’t have the same damaging effects as opioids.
5. Enhances Endurance
Since CBD regulates the function of the endocannabinoid system, it improves overall health. When all parts of the body are properly operating, it allows athletes to perform at their peak. Plus, it allows them to become more physically fit.
6. Balances the Central Nervous System
The central nervous system consists of the brain and spinal cord, and it sends signals to the nerves and neurons. Athletes who suffer from central nervous system burnout, feel sluggish, and recover slower. When CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, it helps to protect the central nervous system from fatigue.
7. Muscle Relaxation
Muscle tension and spasms are part of the athletic lifestyle. Between tough competitions and grueling workouts, it’s to be expected. But sore muscles cause cramps and a reduced ability to perform.
Thankfully, CBD soothes aching muscles to help athletes get back to normal.
Are There Side Effects of CBD?
CBD is a natural substance that has minimal side effects. However, every person’s body is different and some people may experience mild reactions. The best way to avoid side effects is to make sure you consume the proper CBD serving.
If you have a medical condition, it’s wise to speak to a physician before taking CBD. Its side effects are mild, but it could interact with prescription medication that you’re taking.
To be on the safe side, start with a low serving of CBD first. Once your body becomes acclimated to it, you can increase the serving size.
Is CBD Illegal for Athletes?
CBD is legal for athletes to take. In 2018, the World Anti-Doping Agency took CBD off of its list of banned substances, whether in or out of competition. It’s not illegal at all for athletes to take advantage of the benefits of CBD.
It’s important to note that cannabidiol is not the same thing as marijuana. CBD differs from THC, therefore it won’t create a “high”.
Furthermore, using CBD shouldn’t create a positive drug test result. As long as you get your cannabidiol from a reliable source that sells high-quality CBD, you should be fine.
CBD for Athletes: Relief and Relaxation
CBD works wonders for the body, and there’s no wonder it’s become so popular. If anyone can benefit from CBD, it’s people who are physically active.
Are you looking for CBD for athletes? If so, we have an extensive inventory of products just for you. We offer various products from topical cream to CBD gummies.
If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to contact us. We’re more than happy to help!