Cannabidiol or CBD is one of the plenty of cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. CBD is often mistaken with the other popular cannabinoid tetrahydro cannabinol (THC). The latter is a psychoactive substance that makes the user feel “high.” CBD, on the other hand, doesn’t produce any psychoactive effects. In fact, as a non-intoxicating compound, it finds use in many industries, among them sports as well. This article will inform you about the benefits of CBD for athletes.
What are the benefits of CBD for athletes?
CBD can be very beneficial to athletes who can often experience injuries. Cannabidiol can mainly be used as a pain reliever to athletes, while at the same time, it can help in reducing the recovery time. Currently, there are also other medications that can help reduce pain, but most of them have potential side effects and a higher risk to human health.
Lately, CBD has come in as a natural and advantageous option for athletes, not only as a pain reliever but also in many other aspects.
Here’s a list of some of the main CBD benefits for athletes:
1. Reduces anxiety and stress
CBD is mostly used as an anti-stress and anti-anxiety component, as during training and exercises, athletes may experience stress or anxiety. Such a thing could make the training difficult, and CBD helps the body relieve stress and anxiety. It prevents stress during exercises by producing anti-stress and anti-anxiety hormones in the brain.
2. Strengthens the immune system
CBD could also help athletes strengthen their immune system so that the body can resist stress and possible infections, keeping the body organs in good condition as well.
3. Relieves pain
During numerous training sessions, athletes could experience a lot of pain. Therefore, prompt treatment is needed to avoid muscle damage. Products that contain CBD, whether it is CBD oil, CBD creams, lotions, and more, could help athletes reduce pain.
4. Improves sleep
Sleep has a vital role in overall health. To be able to achieve good performance, athletes must be relaxed. Natural CBD creates a calming sensation after a good night’s sleep. By taking CBD, athletes can be more energetic and more relaxed.
Is CBD legal for athletes?
CBD is considered legal to athletes at the beginning of 2018 when the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) confirmed the legalization of CBD for athletes in various sports. The decision came into force on January 1st, 2018, although it was taken some time before. Cannabidiol is now officially removed from the (WADA) list of banned substances and can be used by athletes around the world in any form.
What should I know before taking CBD?
If you’re trying CBD for the first time, you should consider some things. The first thing is the reason why you’re taking CBD. If you start using CBD as a treatment for any of the health problems the compound is known to be beneficial, you should consult your doctor in advance. Many people mistake CBD with THC, so don’t take CBD thinking it will give you the “high” feeling because it won’t. Also, make sure you’re buying CBD from a reliable source and always be careful of the right dose you need to consume daily.
How much CBD should I use?
The dose varies from person to person, as well as the reason you’re taking CBD. Therefore, there is no specific amount that can be used by everyone. It’s recommended that you start taking a smaller amount of Cannabidiol at the beginning and increase the dose day by day.
CBD side effects:
There is not yet enough valid information about the potential benefits and side effects of CBD. Although most of the time CBD containing products are well tolerated by the human body, in some cases, side effects have been reported. These side effects also vary from person to person, but most of the time, include fatigue, diarrhea, dry mouth, dizziness, low blood pressure, etc. CBD side effects are not very common. Hence, cases are rare and mostly happen because the person did not take the right CBD amount. Make sure you always consult your doctor before using any CBD related products, especially if you are using other medications as it is risky to mix them with CBD.
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