Since CBD’s rise to fame in recent years, the array of people purchasing these products have become diverse. People with different lifestyles find themselves trying to seamlessly incorporate this hemp product into their lives.
Even world-class athletes have added the best CBD oil into their daily routines. But is CBD for athletes? There are many factors that affect the decision for athletes to add any kind of supplement into their regimens.
This article analyzes why CBD might be worth the chance.
Is CBD Good for Athletes?
In order to be successful, athletes adopt a strict diet. An athlete’s diet plays a major role in their performance, regardless of their sport. Simply put, good nutrition directly affects a player’s strength, performance, and recovery.
Even with the strict diets athletes have to adhere to, some studies have shown that CBD for athletes may produce some positive results.
First, researchers have found that cannabidiol may regulate the immune system. The strengthening of this particular system means that athletes are more resistant to infections. It is crucial that competitors avoid becoming sick as any illness can weaken the body.
Secondly, there have been multiple studies conducted that show CBD’s potential to reduce anxiety and stress in users. This is relevant to athletes as they are put under extreme pressure for long periods of time.
A 2016 study found that student-athletes report significantly higher stress levels than their non-student athlete counterparts. Most of these student-athletes have to juggle their athletic schedules alongside the regular, daily routine of being a student.
Cannabidiol has the potential to modulate serotonin levels in the brain. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that directly affects the amount of stress people experience. Moreover, low serotonin levels may lead to anxiety or depression.
These initial findings provide a good reason as to why CBD may be good for athletes.
How to Use CBD for Athletes
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is one of the many compounds found in the cannabis plant. CBD extract is what is the main ingredient of many of the hemp products currently in the market.
Cannabidiol’s popularity has mainly been due to its health benefits and non-psychoactive effects. Unlike THC, no amount of CBD consumed can lead users to experience feeling “high.” Many users prefer CBD to THC because of this specific factor. THC is responsible for marijuana’s infamous “high.”
Although some CBD products contain trace amounts of CBD, this amount is not enough to replicate marijuana’s psychoactive effects. Full-spectrum products contain THC in order to activate the product’s entourage effect.
For athletes, the most effective product form may be in CBD topicals. Since topical creams or gels provide a localized effect of hemp, athletes can apply it on sore muscles and joints for pain relief and potential muscle recovery. Many manufacturers create broad-spectrum and full-spectrum topicals, which include the entourage effect.
The entourage effect is activated when all the other compounds of the hemp plant work together to bring out the best in CBD.
For users that want to enjoy the benefits of the entourage effect without the risks of THC, broad-spectrum products may be the better choice. These products also stimulate the entourage effect without containing any THC.
Currently, much of the claims about CBD’s health benefits are based on anecdotal evidence or preliminary studies. Scientists need to conduct more research before any definitive statements can be made.
Does CBD Affect Exercise?
The main benefit of CBD for athletes may be its possible relation to the body’s energy levels and tolerance for exercise.
Cannabidiol’s effect on a person’s energy levels is interesting as it is completely dependent on the amount taken. Low milligrams of CBD allows this cannabinoid product to work as a wake-promoting agent.
However, larger doses have the opposite effect and can lead consumers to feel more lethargic. The correct dosage of this hemp product may help athletes extend their energy while they train.
Does CBD Help with Muscle Recovery?
Most of CBD’s positive side effects are due to its interaction with the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Studies have shown that a particular peripheral reaction between CBD and the CB1 receptors found in the ECS may reduce inflammation.
The decrease in inflammation in the body can help muscles recover at a faster rate. Many over-the-counter painkillers can achieve similar results, but CBD can serve as a more organic alternative.
While CBD provides an all-organic alternative to prescription medication, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has yet to approve of any over-the-counter product. Athletes, runners, and general users alike are to take them as supplements, not medication.
These wellness products are not meant to treat, cure, or prevent any medical disease.
Does CBD Build Muscle?
Although there is little no scientific evidence that links CBD to an increase in muscle mass, this hemp compound can still serve a purpose for athletes.
Rather than being used as a bulking product, CBD for athletes can support them as they train to build up their muscles.
Since CBD may be able to reduce stress and anxiety, athletes taking hemp oils may experience a sense of calmness while they train. A steady and calm demeanor is critical in the sporting world as many of the exercises athletes do regularly can hurt their body if done incorrectly.
Cannabidiol can also help athletes relieve pain. In a recent survey conducted, 90% of test participants reported that the frequency and duration of their pain were greatly reduced after they began using CBD.
Is CBD Oil Legal for NCAA Athletes?
The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is an American organization that is responsible for regulating and operating many of the college sports events in North America.
The NCAA has notoriously strict hemp laws. Currently, THC consumption by athletes is banned by the league. However, these laws do not mention cannabidiol at all.
Although it is possible that athletes may simply opt to use CBD isolates which only contain cannabidiol and no other hemp compound, the legality of this option under the NCAA is likewise unclear.
Technically, the passing of the Farm Bill in 2018 made the production and sale of industrial hemp completely legal in the United States. However, the specific consumption laws regarding this type of hemp product differ from state to state.
Since the NCAA governs most of North America’s sporting events, it is their rules that athletes should adhere to.
Athletes should consult with NCAA officials before taking any kind of cannabidiol product. People with medical conditions should also consult a doctor before incorporating CBD for athletes and other types of wellness products into their active lifestyle.
Is CBD Legal? Hemp-derived CBD products (with less than 0.3 percent THC) are legal on the federal level. Moreover, these statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease and products that have not been FDA approved. Likewise, you must be at least 21 years old to purchase these products. Talk to your physician or medical doctor for additional information.