Athletes put their bodies through a lot with both training and spending time on their playing field. To some degree, this is good since cardio and strength training are necessary parts of staying healthy and fit. However, it can also be detrimental as it puts a lot of stress on certain body parts and can lead to pain and training stress over time. For that reason, many athletes look for ways to alleviate this discomfort so they can continue playing, as well as stay comfortable during their off time. For some athletes, CBD has become something they rely on. But should they be using it? Read on to find out.
Reasons Athletes Seek Out CBD
One of the main reasons that athletes might choose to try CBD is that it’s considered more natural than medications that are traditionally used to treat pain and injuries among sports players.
Over the counter painkillers, when used consistently, pose health risks to athletes that can interfere with their performance. Opioids are highly addictive and the risk of an overdose increases the longer they are used. Certain drugs and medications are also off-limits to athletes to avoid falling foul of doping regulations.
CBD can be used to control inflammation, which occurs in the body with repeated use of the same muscles and joints. Helping keep inflammation under control can also alleviate pain. Because CBD has a positive effect on inflammation, many athletes find that it helps them settle their gut, which can help with post-workout/game recovery. CBD can also help some athletes get more sleep and get better quality sleep so they are better able to perform and recover from intense physical activity.
How CBD Works
According to a report released in 2018 by the World Health Organization, CBD doesn’t pose the same risk of overuse or misuse of other kinds of painkillers and anti-inflammatory treatment methods. Studies have found that CBD can effectively reduce pain and battle inflammation, such as that which occurs with prolonged bouts of exercise or physical activity. This makes it especially useful for athletes who move their bodies much more than the average person.
CBD works by interacting with receptors in the brain that relieve the discomfort and reduce swelling. However, unlike other medications, it doesn’t carry the risk of addiction and won’t make you high.
Is it Legal?
While there’s certainly some promise for athletes who want to use CBD oil to treat their physical ailments, many wonder if it’s legal. In 2018, CBD was taken off the list of prohibited substances by the World Anti-Doping Agency, which makes it legal for use by athletes of all types. Keep in mind that only CBD was removed, not THC, which means using marijuana as an athlete may still be considered illegal, depending on where you live. At the same time, it’s important to consider the federal and local laws, which may still prohibit the use of marijuana, regardless of your reason for doing so.
Potential Side Effects
In addition to understanding how CBD can benefit athletes, it’s also important to understand the possible side effects that go with using it. This way you can be prepared and can report any of these side effects to your doctor/advisor so that you can work together to be sure that CBD is right for your health. Potential side effects include nausea, diarrhea, fatigue, dry mouth, low blood pressure, and changes in your appetite and weight. It’s important to pay attention to any of these so that you can take measures to prevent them or lessen their impact.
How to Use CBD
There are many ways to use CBD and the method you choose is largely based on personal preference and which method works best for your needs. Some options include pills or capsules, and topical application of CBD or as an oil. There is also a variety of CBD infused products on the market, including sports drinks, recovery drinks, and many kinds of edibles, from gummies to chocolate bars. You can also make your own edibles using premium hemp flowers from OrganicCBDnugs. Capsules, edibles, and oils take a bit longer to hit your bloodstream so you’ll be waiting for the effects longer than if you use topical or inhaled methods of ingesting CBD.
How Much CBD Do You Need?
This varies on a variety of factors that you need to consider before you get started using it. Keep in mind that there isn’t governmental regulation on the amount of CBD in certain products so you could get a higher concentration if you try different brands. The most precise way to know how much CBD you’re getting is by taking capsules. Otherwise, you may have to experiment to find brands and products that suit your needs.
Athletes may benefit from adding CBD to their recovery routine. It’s definitely something you should discuss with your doctor/advisor before getting started, however. Controlling pain and inflammation is a good way to achieve peak performance and stay in good shape for the playing field.