CBD, also known as cannabidiol, could be the answer if you're looking to reduce muscle soreness, inflammation, and the like in your post-workout athletic recovery. With new scientific research in this area, CBD oil and topical creams are becoming a promising addition to any exercise regimen.
What is CBD?
CBD (short for cannabidiol) is one of more than 100 compounds called cannabinoids found in cannabis. Derived from the seeds and stems of the cannabis plant, CBD is a natural botanical concentrate that contains less than 0.3% THC and does not make the user high. Cannabinoids are similar in structure to endocannabinoids, cannabis-like substances produced naturally by the body and help the body maintain stability, health, and a sense of well-being.
Recently, a growing number of fitness enthusiasts are finding CBD to be an important part of their recovery regimen. Even professional athletes supplement CBD oil to reduce chronic pain and inflammation, improve sleep quality, and increase muscle growth.
CBD can promote muscle growth
Look forshowed that CBD has anti-catabolic properties, meaning it can help reduce the breakdown of lean muscle tissue and even help build more muscle mass. CBD has been shown to lower levels of catabolic hormones in the body and regulate the stress hormone cortisol, which breaks down muscle tissue to fuel the body with blood sugar. By lowering cortisol levels in the body after exercise, CBD oil enables protein synthesis and stimulates muscle recovery.
Given the anti-catabolic potential of CBD, supplementing your exercise regimen with CBD might be just what you need to overcome this persistent plateau. Because as we build more and more muscle, it becomes easier for our body to produce cortisol and therefore limit muscle growth. This makes CBD a great tool that can help you achieve new fitness goals.
Dor muscular y CBD
CBD for DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness) is another area where anecdotal reports are positive. Inflammation is a necessary part of the recovery process, but excessive inflammation can cause secondary muscle damage due to the release of free radicals from active neutrophils (white blood cells). The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant nature of CBD is believed to help reduce this excessive muscle soreness.
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Scientists are still in the early stages of investigating CBD on a clinical level, but CBD has been shown to suppress the inflammatory response along with neuropathic pain that athletes can experience. afterRückblick 2018From 132 original studies published in Frontiers in Neurology, CBD can actually reduce inflammation in the body and help improve pain and mobility in MS patients. Using CBD as a pre-workout supplement helps reduce pain sensitivity during exercise, and since it is not as sensitive to pain signals from muscles, it can withstand high-intensity exercise.
Improve sleep quality with CBD
Getting more and better sleep is one of the most effective ways for an athlete to achieve better training results. Achieving the REM sleep cycle is critical to a successful post-workout routine, as it is the sleep phase that provides the ideal conditions for muscle building and repair.
Shocking Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Fitness
Athletes who consume CBD report a lighter sleep and a more restful night's sleep. For example a 2019for studyby researchers at the University of Colorado examined whether CBD capsules could help 72 people suffering from anxiety and sleep disorders. The study reported sleep improvements in 67% of patients. Also a 2017paper reviewon the use of cannabis for sleep noted that preliminary results suggest that CBD can be used to treat insomnia.
Taking CBD for athletic recreation
CBD is available as "full spectrum" or "isolate." Full spectrum CBD products contain CBD and other compounds found in the original plant, which may contain small amounts of THC. If the CBD was derived from industrial hemp, the THC content of the original plant is legally less than 0.3%. Products containing CBD isolate must only contain CBD. CBD isolate and CBD made from hemp would be better options from an anti-doping perspective for anyone doing zero-tolerance testing in the workplace.
Companies that make and sell CBD products recommend starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it based on the effects experienced.
CBD Creams and Topicals for Athletic Recovery
Made by infusing high-quality cannabis flowers into some type of quality oil, usually coconut or olive oil, which extracts the active compounds, either CBD, THC, or both, depending on the strain of hemp used. This oil is then blended with other therapeutic herbs such as arnica or lemongrass essential oils, which are known pain relievers. A study analysis in the Journal of Pain Research confirms that the topical application of certain topical cannabinoids can reduce pain in animals with inflammation or neuropathic pain.
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The topics should be massaged into the skin and then applied directly to the affected area. Always refer to the packaging for specific manufacturer's instructions and recommendations.
1937 Wellness CBD-Confortcreme
This cream contains 1,000 milligrams (mg) of CBD in just 8 ounces. This means that it is highly concentrated, which can make it more effective. The CBD used is more isolated than full or broad spectrum CBD, making this product a good choice for people looking to avoid THC altogether.
CBD oils for sports recovery
When CBD oil is administered sublingually, it is held under the tongue for up to 90 seconds to allow the mucous membranes in the mouth to absorb the active ingredients in the oil. The benefit of consuming CBD oil sublingually is that the absorption process bypasses the digestive system and metabolization in the liver, allowing the compounds to reach the bloodstream and interact more quickly with the endocannabinoid system. For those looking for quick effects, a sublingual CBD oil is ideal.
Pure CBD oil, as well as tinctures and concentrates, are CBD products designed for the sublingual application method. They can be held slightly in the mouth so that the active ingredients have time to enter the capillaries in the mouth before swallowing.
Charlotte's Web Full Strength CBD Oil
This full-spectrum hemp extract oil can help relieve daily stress, aid workout recovery, relieve muscle and joint pain, and improve focus. It can also help calm your nerves and help you sleep well. This oil should be taken orally. It comes in olive oil and mint chocolate flavors and is made with natural flavors.
CBD and your post-workout recovery
Just as each person is unique in the way their body responds to smoking or eating marijuana, the same is true when using CBD creams and oils. Therefore, the "start slow, go slow" rule applies when using tinctures or topicals for athletic recovery. As legalization spreads across the country, CBD is becoming an easily accessible tool to add to your post-workout recovery routine. While the benefits of CBD are still being actively researched, existing scientific evidence suggests that cannabidiol supports the body's recovery through restful sleep, anti-inflammatory effects, and lowering cortisol levels.
How was your experience with CBD and sports recovery? Do you have any tips or products to recommend? Tell us in the comments!
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FAQs
Benefits of CBD Oil for Sports Recovery - 20 Fit? ›
This full-spectrum hemp extract oil may help to relieve daily stress, support exercise recovery, alleviate muscle and joint pain, and improve focus. It may also help to calm your nerves and support a healthy night's sleep. This oil should be taken orally.
What are the benefits of CBD for athletic recovery? ›- Relaxes muscles, which alleviates muscle tension and spasm.
- Reduces mild inflammation, preventing damage to surrounding healthy muscle.
- Supports sleep, which aids muscle fibre regeneration.
- Helps prevent DOMS and associated pain.
- Supports faster recovery between workouts or following injury.
The potential anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects of CBD for athletes can also help with muscle recovery. Intensive workout sessions can tear your muscle tissues and cause inflammation. This inflammation can help you build stronger muscles. On the other hand, too much of it can have adverse effects.
Does CBD boost recovery? ›CBD oil also has neuroprotective properties that can help repair nerve tissues damaged during an injury or surgery. This can lead to faster wound healing, reduced scarring and improved muscle development over time.
When should athletes take CBD oil? ›If you're new to CBD, start with a low dose and don't use it before an athletic competition or workout. When you grow comfortable with its effects, you can start to use higher doses and consider taking it before or even during physical activity.
How much CBD should an athlete take? ›Many experts suggest about 300 milligrams taken orally, but others have found benefit with as little as 20 milligrams, a relatively common dose in CBD supplements for athletes. It's wise to start with small doses to assess your sensitivity.
What are 3 benefits of CBD? ›CBD is advertised as providing relief for anxiety, depression and post-traumatic stress disorder. It is also marketed to promote sleep. Part of CBD's popularity is that it purports to be “nonpsychoactive,” and that consumers can reap health benefits from the plant without the high (or the midnight pizza munchies).
What form of CBD is best for athletes? ›- Charlotte's Web CBDMEDIC Active Sport Pain Relief Stick.
- CBDistillery CBDol Topical — CBD Balm.
- Level Select CBD Roll-Ons.
- Therabody Revive CBD Body Balm.
- PlusCBD CBD Balm.
- CBDfx CBD Cream For Muscle & Joint.
- Aspen Green Pain Relief Body Balm.
Unlike its cousin THC, CBD is not intoxicating or psychoactive. Proponents of CBD oil and other CBD products claim that it can be used to treat conditions such as chronic pain, inflammation, migraines, epilepsy, autoimmune diseases, depression, and anxiety.
How much CBD oil should I take for recovery? ›One rule of thumb is 1-6 milligrams of CBD for every 10 pounds of body weight based on pain levels. Another is to start with 5-10mg per day and increase by 5-10mg until you feel relief.
When should I take CBD oil for recovery? ›
Take a moment in the morning
CBD works with your endocannabinoid system and can help you feel calmer, more focused and more you. It may help to reduce stress and aid with mood, inflammation and recovery. This can make CBD oils or drinks the perfect addition to your morning routine.
CBD capsules usually take about an hour to take effect and last for between six and eight hours. CBD topicals typically take effect within 15 to 20 minutes, and the benefits usually last for up to six hours.
Is it better to take CBD oil before or after workout? ›The short answer is that CBD oil is effective both before and after workouts. Before your workout, it can help to boost your energy and relax your muscles. Afterward, it can help soothe post-exercise inflammation.
Is it better to take CBD before or after workout? ›'Before your workout, CBD may help maximise performance by reducing stress, improving oxygen delivery, reducing inflammation and pain signalling, and promoting mobility,' McGreevy says. 'Post-workout, it could help to improve muscle recovery, reduce muscle and joint inflammation, and improve sleep recovery.
Is it OK to take CBD before a workout? ›Using CBD before your workout can significantly help to lessen the effects of anxiety and reduce blood pressure, allowing you to bring your A-game from the word go.
Is 20 mg of CBD lots? ›CBD Dosage and Use
The typical dose range for CBD in adults is 15-30 mg daily. With some conditions, such as those involving pain or inflammation, the recommended dose is often higher, but I find it is best-tolerated and most effective for anxiety, sleep, and mood in this moderate range.
You can take 40 mg on days when you're in a lot of pain. After a week, you increase it to 45 mg, and after a second week, you use 50 mg. At this point, you might feel that your pain is bearable. It might be wise to keep track of how much CBD you're taking and whether your symptoms are getting better.
Does CBD oil help with sports anxiety? ›Another method you can try to reduce sports performance anxiety is through CBD oil. A 2015 study found that using CBD oil could reduce anxiety and nerves in performance - something which can help golfers if they're struggling with concentration levels on the course!
What is the downside of CBD oil? ›Though it's often well-tolerated, CBD can cause side effects, such as dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness and fatigue. CBD can also interact with other medications you're taking, such as blood thinners. Another cause for concern is the unreliability of the purity and dosage of CBD in products.
Is it good to use CBD everyday? ›Yes , daily use can help, especially if you're taking it for symptoms you experience daily - such as chronic pain, frequent anxiety, or trouble sleeping. For example, CBD can soothe your nervous system, and it's easier to prevent a symptom from escalating than it is to try to manage a severe flare-up.
What drugs should not be taken with CBD? ›
CBD has been reported to interact with several anticonvulsants, including diazepam, lamotrigine, and phenytoin28,29; sedative drugs including barbiturates such as phenobarbital and hexobarbital30; and narcotics such as codeine and morphine.
What type of CBD is best for muscle recovery? ›Formulation. CBD comes in lots of different forms, like creams, gels, drops, vapors, edibles, and bath salts. The choice is up to you, but for post-workout recovery, topical CBD works best in providing targeted relief as the effects are more focused on the swollen local tissue.
What strength of CBD is best to start with? ›Those new to CBD will tend to start with a product that provides less than 10mg per dose. If you prefer to take a capsule, then a typical starting product will provide 6.4mg of a 'high-strength' oil in which CBD is blended with olive and hemp oil.
What CBD is good for muscles? ›Best for muscles and joints: CBDfx CBD Cream For Muscle & Joint. CBDfx offers a broad-spectrum CBD cream that contains either 1,000 mg or 3,000 mg of CBD per container. The cream contains cannabinoids, caffeine, and white willow bark, which reportedly helps ease aches and pain.
Does CBD have a strong effect? ›High concentrations of CBD (or taking more than recommended) could cause an uplifting effect. That's not the same thing as a high. What's more, taking high doses of CBD could cause some side effects, including nausea and dizziness. In that case, you may not even experience the “uplifting” effect at all.
Should you refrigerate CBD oil? ›Following the last section, there is no need to put CBD oils, edible and other products in the fridge. So long as the regular room temperature where you live is around 23°C and the bottle or container is not directly exposed or near to sunlight, they should not be in danger of contamination or degradation.
How much CBD should a beginner start with? ›"The best practice and the industry standard for dosing is to guide new CBD users to 'start low and go slow. ' This means starting at a dose of 10mg and slowly titrating up as needed by increasing the dose in 5mg increments every 2 to 3 days," says Capano.
What to feel after taking CBD oil? ›Most people use CBD as a substance that relieves stress, and in doing so, they often feel a kind of “body high” that allows them to feel connected with themselves. Some strains also make you feel more energized or motivated, and higher amounts leave you feeling deeply relaxed or possibly sleepy.
Should I drink water after taking CBD oil? ›Luckily, you can drink water after the CBD oil has been taken by your body, even if you've only consumed CBD oil sublingually. Water and food won't affect CBD, especially since sublingual intake works quickly and immediately absorbing CBD into the bloodstream.
Should I eat or drink after taking CBD oil? ›CBD oil should always be taken with food in your system, but there's not just one reason behind this fact. While you can take it immediately before or after your meal, we strongly recommend taking it after. Taking CBD oil after eating optimizes your chances of it having the highest bioavailability.
What to expect first time effects of CBD? ›
CBD relaxes muscles, relieves pain, and even helps minimize anxiety, so you'll likely feel incredibly relaxed and even tired. Not to worry, though. Most users report that fatigue symptoms dissipate once you pass the 2-3 week mark, but if they don't, try lowering your dose or letting your doctor know.
Will CBD make you feel happy? ›That's not to say that CBD oils that are THC-free don't have mood-inducing properties: they *are* powerful mood altering compounds. Moderate doses can have a profound positive effect on your overall wellbeing through the way they induce feelings of grounding and calm, and counteract anxiety and stress.
Do professional athletes use CBD? ›Why Do Athletes Take CBD? One of the reasons CBD is taking off among athletes across professional sports leagues and recreational activities is because of its astounding range of benefits. CBD has been used to help relieve stress, anxiety, sleep disorders, joint pains, workout recovery time and so much more.
What form of CBD works fastest? ›Sublingual products
Letting the product absorb under your tongue rather than subjecting it to the digestive tract preserves more of the CBD, and you'll feel results faster. Sublingual products take effect faster than edible products. Choose this route if you're looking for quicker results.
One rule of thumb is 1-6 milligrams of CBD for every 10 pounds of body weight based on pain levels. Another is to start with 5-10mg per day and increase by 5-10mg until you feel relief.
Does CBD actually relax muscles? ›CBD acts as a natural muscle relaxer by slowing the flow of the neurotransmitters that cause muscle tension and spasms, alleviating symptoms and allowing the muscle to relax. CBD helps reduce overall stress and anxiety, which are contributing factors to muscle tension.
Does CBD reduce inflammation or just pain? ›CBD may help to reduce pain by acting on a variety of biological processes in the body. CBD has been shown to work as an anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and analgesic. CBD may also reduce the anxiety that people living with chronic pain often experience.
Does CBD enhance pleasure during exercise? ›Additionally, CBD has pro-regenerative effects, which help with muscle damage and healing [4]. Furthermore, CBD has been linked to improved running performance by increasing oxygen consumption and the feeling of pleasure during exercise without negatively impacting exercise performance [5].