CBD (Cannabidiol): Benefits, Uses and How to Take It Safely

Javier Colomer 4 min. of reading Recovery Leave a comment

The world of supplementation and recovery has taken a radical turn with the emergence of CBD or Cannabidiol. Although there are still doubts about its origin and legality, science and international sports organizations have begun to support its properties.

In this guide we will break down exactly what it is, how it works in your body, and why it has become an essential ally for athletes in muscle recovery.

Index

1 What is CBD or Cannabidiol?
2 Properties and health benefits of CBD
3 CBD in the sports field
4 How to take CBD if you are an athlete
5 Side effects of CBD

What is CBD or Cannabidiol?

CBD is one of more than one hundred phytocannabinoids found in the Cannabis Sativa plant. Unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), CBD does not have psychoactive effects. In other words, it does not produce a “high” or alter cognitive perception.

Its interaction with our endocannabinoid system (ECS) is the key to its success. This system regulates vital functions such as sleep, pain response and the immune system.

Properties and health benefits of CBD

The use of cannabidiol has expanded thanks to its multiple therapeutic applications:

Natural anti-inflammatory: Reduces the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines.
Anxiolytic and relaxing: Helps reduce stress levels and improves sleep quality.
Analgesic: Contributes to the mitigation of chronic and neuropathic pain.
Neuroprotective: Studies suggest its potential in protecting the nervous system.

CBD in the sports field

Until recently, cannabis was completely banned in sport. However, in 2018 the World Anti-Doping Agency (AMA/WADA) removed CBD from the list of prohibited substances. This opened the door for football players, cyclists and CrossFit athletes to use it as part of their daily routine.

How does CBD help athletes?

Acceleration of muscle recovery: After high-intensity training, the body suffers micro-tears and inflammation. CBD helps reduce this inflammation in a more natural way than traditional non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Improves deep sleep: Performance does not occur in the gym, but during sleep. CBD helps promote restorative sleep, which is essential for protein synthesis.

Controls pre-competition anxiety: Helps maintain focus and calm before high-pressure events without reducing reaction capacity.

How to take CBD if you are an athlete

CBD is sold on the market in different forms and concentrations. There are topical products (creams, balms, lip balms), capsules or pearls that contain hemp seed oil.

If you want to integrate the benefits of hemp into your daily diet with maximum purity, our EssentialSeries hemp seed oil is the professional choice. With 500mg per serving, it is the perfect nutritional support for those seeking comprehensive recovery and an optimal intake of essential fatty acids.

Take the pearls with your main meals (for example: breakfast, lunch and dinner). You can also take them together with foods rich in healthy fatty acids, such as avocado or olive oil.

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Side effects of CBD

CBD is a compound generally very well tolerated by users. However, minor adverse effects may occur, including: diarrhea, drowsiness, pyrexia, anorexia, vomiting, increased risk of upper respiratory tract infections, hepatotoxicity, dry mouth and moderate fatigue.

It should be noted that most side effects are observed at high doses ≥10mg/kg/day, and with the quality of some American products it is not always clear whether adverse effects are caused by CBD itself or other factors — especially regarding dry mouth.

It should not be taken by: children, adolescents, pregnant women or patients taking multiple medications (due to the high potential for drug interactions).

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