CBD AND SPORTS: MUSCLE RECOVERY, PAIN, AND SLEEP
Today's athletes are known to use CBD to aid in muscle recovery, but does it really work? What does science say about it, and what physical conditions could CBD help alleviate? In this article, we'll explore all of this and more.
CBD AND MUSCLE RECOVERY
CBD is one of the more than 100 cannabinoids contained in the cannabis plant, just like the legendary THC.
When CBD reaches the body, It interacts indirectly with our endocannabinoid system (ECS) by inhibiting an enzyme that breaks down anandamide, a cannabinoid produced by our body.This substance, also known as the “happiness molecule,” binds to the CB1 and CB2 receptors in our ECS and controls aspects of our lives such as our mood, appetite, pain perception, and fertility.
The sensation upon contact with this system is similar to “runner's high,” or that feeling of joy and stress reduction that comes with a rush of endorphins.
And speaking of runners, it might be a good time to delve into the use of CBD for muscle recovery in athletes.
When it comes to pain management, researchers are still studying CBD to see if it has any benefits against inflammation.
What makes it effective is its relationship with the cannabinoid receptors in the ECS. Unlike THC, CBD does not bind to CB1 and CB2 receptors. However, it is believed to bind to TRPV1 receptors, which are responsible for regulating body temperature, pain perception, and inflammation.
Current studies are trying to uncover how CBD affects the ECS (endocannabinoid system). So far, the molecule has been found to influence anandamide levels and interact with CB2 receptors, as well as the receptors that make up the "expanded ECS." Research is now underway to determine whether this action has any relevance to post-workout pain, inflammation, and discomfort.
As you start sleeping less each week, you may begin to feel anxious. Your mind races, worries, and ruminations occur, to the point where you end up spending sleepless nights.
This vicious cycle could continue indefinitely. Hoping to break it, researchers are investigating CBD's effects on sleep and anxiety. A case series study, published in 2019, investigated the cannabinoid's effects on 72 adult patients with sleep and anxiety problems; the authors concluded that more formal studies on efficacy and dose-ranging are urgently needed.
HOW CAN CBD IMPROVE MY SPORTS PERFORMANCE?
Building muscle is one of the most difficult tasks for a bodybuilder, elite athlete, or any fitness enthusiast. Naturally, our bodies cannot continue to build muscle beyond a certain point. Anabolic hormones in the body cause growth, while catabolic hormones result in muscle breakdown. To prevent muscle breakdown, anti-catabolic nutrients are needed to aid muscle retention, as catabolic hormones in the body break down muscle mass. To reverse this process, a person needs to take anti-catabolic supplements.
CBD supplements can help people achieve their goals, improve their performance, and improve their condition by reducing catabolic hormones present in the body. With fewer catabolic hormones, the body won't be able to break down muscle mass as quickly, allowing a person to increase their muscle mass.
HOW AND WHEN TO CONNECT CBD AND SPORT?
CBD consumption, as we've seen, is highly beneficial for enhancing the results of our training, while also keeping us healthy.
This can be consumed before training by following a few small guidelines:
• Keep in mind that it will greatly clear your mind, helping you concentrate.
• As a pre-workout supplement, it is recommended to consume a dose of about 2.5 mg.
• The most common format is through CBD oil.
• It is best to take it half an hour before training.
You can choose to consume it afterward rather than before your workout. This way, you'll benefit from its anti-inflammatory and analgesic effects.
We advise you to do the following:
• Consume CBD right after physical activity.
• Take a dose of about 2.5 mg.
• Ingest the component in the form of sublingual oil drops.
• If you want to take advantage of its anti-insomnia properties, consume it one hour before bedtime.
RECOVERY AND INFLAMMATION
One of CBD's most important properties is its anti-inflammatory properties. Athletes are often exposed to inflammation due to intense training and physical overload. By using CBD, the body can achieve faster recovery and relief in a very short time.
In addition to all the excellent properties that cannabis oil offers to people in general, it can also have an effect on the most significant regeneration of the body, which is the most essential for all athletes, sportsmen, and bodybuilders: sleep.
Getting a good night's rest is one of the key factors in helping a person lose weight and build muscle. Using CBD oil can also help you get much better sleep, so you're fit, full of stamina, and energetic for the next day. Anyone who doesn't get enough rest has a body that isn't functioning properly. This means a person's body can't burn energy properly or help them build muscle properly. CBD has been shown to help some people regain sleep. Another great benefit of CBD is that it doesn't have the addictive and side effects found in some sleep medications on the market.
Anyone trying to become healthier and include exercise in their daily routine will want to do some research on CBD supplements. While there hasn't been much research in recent years, the studies that have been conducted have shown significant potential for enthusiastic players and athletes.
CONCLUSION
CBD has incredible benefits with applications in fitness, bodybuilding, and general health benefits. Anyone looking to build muscle, lose weight, relieve the stress of a game or competition, or improve sleep should look into CBD products. As with any new supplement or medication, be sure to consult your doctor before introducing anything new into your body.
Your doctor will be able to advise you on the dosage and how long you should continue taking CBD. He or she will also be able to discuss your other medications with you and any potential drug interactions or adverse side effects.
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