CBD + The Athlete: What You Need to Know
CBD has emerged as a go-to choice for athletes, as part of a routine for enhancing performance, and helping with recovery and injury prevention.
CBD: A Quick Overview
CBD is short for cannabidiol. It is one of over 100 molecules known as cannabinoids, found in the hemp plant. Cannabinoids are an integral part of the human body’s ability to regulate and balance a wide variety of physiological systems. CBD binds to the receptors in your body and can relieve stress and release pain.
CBD and Pain Relief
Research has shown that while CBD does not have any potential for misuse, it can provide long-term and short-term pain relief. It can be used as a pre or post treatment for inflammatory issues, which are often the cause of chronic pain. It can also be used for more acute pain relief associated with specific sports related injuries. Applying CBD directly to damaged tissue after an injury has been shown to stop swelling and prevent worsening of the injury. It has also been known to help relieve pain quickly and well. In addition, CBD, unlike THC (tetrahydrocannabinol, the cannabinoid found in the cannabis plant that causes marijuana's psychotropic effects), has no psychological effects and will not show up on a drug test. Unlike many painkillers that can be addictive and lead to harmful habits, CBD can provide pain relief and is neither addictive nor can it spur negative habits. Some research shows that CBD can even be used as treatment for opioids and drug misuse. Athletes participating in intense exercise can use CBD not only for decreasing pain, but also to assist in stopping inflammation and speed up recovery.
Inflammation: Finally a fix
The worst feeling is being sore and not knowing how to make it better. Whether you just finished the big game or you ran on your foot funny, every athlete knows that helpless feeling. Inflammation can occur from just about any kind of exercise. Even sugar and stress can be a cause. If inflammation can happen so easily, there should be an easy fix. CBD is one of the most promising fixes for this problem. Recent studies have demonstrated the anti-inflammatory effects of both topical and internal use of CBD. Applying a CBD cream or salve, taking a CBD soak or tincture can quickly combat inflammation and relieve the pain associated with it.
Stress Relief Before the Big Game
We all have pre-game rituals. Some people don't wash their socks, where others sleep in their jerseys, but why not add a quick new ritual that has proven results? CBD has been shown to decrease anxiety and keep your nerves at bay. Stress is something that affects pretty much everyone, and it is certainly a part of every athlete’s life. Too much stress has been shown to have negative effects on health that can lead to very serious ailments.
The ways our bodies manage stress is with the endocannabinoid system. This natural system within our bodies works to maintain a balance, which controls both physical sensation and emotional behavior. We can support our endocannabinoid system by using cannabinoids. While cannabinoids are found in a number of plants, like broccoli and echinacea, CBD has a higher concentration of cannabinoids so it naturally offers greater support. It provides balance in the endocannabinoid system and ensures a healthy stress response. When we have a healthy response to stress, our bodies can function at their optimal strength and focus.
CBD and Sleep
Tossing and turning the night before a big event is a tradition that every athlete understands. CBD can provide help with that too. Taking CBD before bed relaxes your muscles. Not only that, it releases stress to calm and center you. Before bed is a really good time to apply or take CBD because it is a perfect way to wind down and prepare for a restful night. Listen to your body and see if you need CBD to calm you in the night or prepare you for your day. If you have an injury, applying CBD before bed can be very good for recovery. CBD can help heal the tissue, while allowing your muscles and body full relaxation.
Face (and Embrace) the Day with CBD
CBD has been shown to be beneficial when applied as a pregame or pre-workout routine. CBD promotes physical balance in your body and loosens and calms your muscles perfectly. While every athlete's body and journey is different, CBD is a non-addictive, totally safe complement to an active life. The best anti-inflammatory diet includes greens, berries, and foods that are nutrient dense, and CBD is a great supplement alongside clean eating. Using CBD makes it less likely to get injured while working out. CBD centers you and puts you in the right mindset to work the hardest you can. CBD helps reduce inflammation and pain, and aids in speeding up recovery. With all of these benefits and no downside, there is no reason not to try it!
The Reasons Why Athletes Should Use CBD:
CBD can reduce pain
CBD can cause muscle relief
CBD can reduce inflammation
CBD can reduce joint pain
CBD can increase health
CBD is not addictive
CBD is a legal pain reliever with no side effects
CBD is good for pre workout relief
CBD can reduce stress
CBD can create better sleep
CBD can give you energy