CBD, a common abbreviation for cannabidiol, is an active chemical in cannabis. The compound is famous for its many health benefits, including relieving pain, inflammation, and stress. That explains why CBD-infused products are popping up in every other industry.
Originally found mainly in hospitals and medical research centers, cannabidiol goods have since found their way into pet kibble, food & beverage products, and even sports & fitness supplements. Whether you’re an occasional fitness trainer or a professional athlete, there are several ways to benefit by integrating CBD products into your lifestyle.
Below are the top six incredible benefits of CBD for fitness and bodybuilding.
CBD May Relieve Pain
Pain can be a serious impediment to successful workouts. Aching muscles and tender joints can make it exceedingly difficult to carry out your exercise routines. Fortunately, this is one area where cannabidiol has shown tremendous potential.
According to research, CBD can mediate pain by affecting CB1 and TRPV1 receptors. These two receptors are heavily involved in the body’s natural pain-signaling mechanisms.
When consumed, cannabidiol affects CB1 and TRPV1 receptors by desensitizing them. That inhibits the transmission of pain signals across the body, thereby raising the body’s nociceptive threshold.
Some research also indicates that CBD may boost endogenous anandamide levels. Anandamide is a chemical that also plays a key role in pain management.
CBD May Improve Blood Circulation
Cannabidiol contains vasodilatory properties. A vasodilator, as the name implies, is a substance that dilates (expands) constricted (narrowed) blood vessels.
By dilating your arteries, CBD ramps the supply of oxygen and nutrients to your vital organs, including your heart, lungs, and liver. The compound also facilitates the excretion of toxic by-products of exercise, such as lactic acid. That combination is necessary for a successful workout.
If you’ve been struggling with blood circulation issues and breathing problems during your workouts, all you need is a high-quality CBD product from CBD oil or other reputable sellers. There are three fundamental ways to establish that a CBD supplement is high-quality.
First, the production company must enjoy high approval ratings from its previous customers. Secondly, the supplements must contain cannabidiol sourced from organically-grown hemp and extracted using safe methods like Supercritical Carbon Dioxide (CO2) Extraction. Lastly, there ought to be a report indicating that the product has undergone rigorous lab testing and is certified as safe for consumption.
CBD May Soothe Inflammation
Inflammation usually results from the body’s response to the presence of foreign substances. However, the phenomenon can also be triggered by vigorous exercise.
Workout-induced inflammation occurs due to microscopic damage to muscles during strenuous exercise routines. The condition is common among bodybuilders because of the nature of their workouts.
Cannabidiol soothes inflammation by reducing the levels of inflammatory cytokines in the body. Cytokines are one of the main proteins transmitting inflammatory signals across the body.
By reducing cytokine levels and activity, cannabidiol plays a direct role in preventing undue inflammatory responses. And a lack of inflammation during workouts can enhance your overall endurance.
CBD May Treat DOMS
Cannabidiol’s analgesic and anti-inflammatory properties are why the compound is commonly recommended for treating DOMS. Short for delayed onset of muscle soreness, DOMS is a condition marked by excruciating muscle pain and joint tenderness following periods of intense workouts.
DOMS usually sets in about 24 hours after working out and can last for the next three days. The phenomenon is common among people with erratic exercise schedules.
And while it has a way of resolving itself, DOMS can cause severe workout downtimes while it lasts. That’s why you should consider treating it fast using cannabidiol supplements.
The best time to consume CBD for DOMS is after completing your workouts. Do not wait until the condition sets in, as the pain and stiffness may already be too unbearable.
CBD May Boost Your Energy
Cannabidiol has antiemetic properties. Therefore, the compound can treat nausea-induced inappetence. This allows you to enjoy food, energy drinks, and other supplements you need for maximum workout endurance.
CBD may also affect your energy, especially when used alongside tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
Tetrahydrocannabinol is a chemical in cannabis best known for causing the famous ‘high.’ But besides getting you stoned, studies have shown that small amounts of THC can induce appetite by stimulating the hunger hormone ghrelin. Moreover, the compound induces euphoria, a feeling marked by elevated levels of physical and mental energy.
Supplements formulated with CBD and THC are usually labeled full-spectrum. Consider such products if looking to combat workout fatigue.
CBD May Improve Sleep
Everyone deserves a good night’s sleep. But athletes and fitness buffs deserve it even more.
Sleep allows our bodies to rest and re-energize for the day ahead. It also promotes the natural healing of microscopic muscle damage incurred during workouts.
Administering cannabidiol before bedtime might improve your sleep quality in various ways.
For starters, CBD is a natural sedative. Therefore, the substance can boost your sleep by reducing your sleep latency.
Cannabidiol can also aid your sleep by treating various causes and side effects of sleep deprivation. Common ones include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), sleep apnea, REM sleep behavior disorder (RBD), and restless leg syndrome.
Final Word
Cannabidiol is a powerful supplement that can supercharge your workouts while treating numerous conditions. Just remember to discuss with your physician or trainer before using CBD products.