There are always a lot of speculations about the effects of CBD oil on health. However, research suggests that CBD oil can offer a plethora of health benefits, especially for athletes. Being an athlete is not easy. It takes years of practice, dedication to master any sport, and an athlete faces many physical and psychological hurdles in the journey. While handling such hiccups may be easy for some and not for others. That’s where CBD may help by alleviating any physical and psychological health conditions. If you’re an athlete and are asking the question of whether CBD oil is helpful for athletes? Yes, it may be. Let’s look at the benefits of using CBD oil for athletes.

Inflammation and Pain Relief

Physical pain becomes part and parcel of an athlete’s life from an early age. Whether it’s a joint ache or muscle spasms from prolonged physical activity, CBD may aid in alleviating the pain. CBD is not a highly psychoactive substance and interacts with the ECS (endocannabinoid system), a cell signaling system present in the human body. After entering the ECS, CBD binds with the CB1 and CB2 cannabinoid receptors that send and receive signals from various body parts.

The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may reduce any inflammation messenger activity happening in the body parts and reduce inflammation. CBD may also block pain signals from various body parts and numb the pain. The wide range of CBD products other than conventional oils makes it easy for athletes to use CBD anytime. Sunday Scaries CBD gummies are an exceptional CBD product any athlete can get their hands on because they pain-relief CBD gummies.

Promoting Better Sleep

Sleep is another crucial factor in productivity for both athletes and people who don’t play sports. Insomnia is becoming prevalent, and CBD may help in promoting a good night’s sleep. It is still unclear how CBD may help in reducing the effects of insomnia.
However, research suggests that it is the calming and relaxing properties of the compound that does it. Insomnia can occur because of many health conditions like acute pain, muscle spasms, anxiety, stress. CBD’s calming properties may reduce all such problems and help you sleep better.

Natural Alternative to NSAIDs

Athletes and NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) are like a match made in heaven. They have been using over-the-counter NSAIDs to alleviate pain and inflammation for a while now. NSAIDs may show promising results, but the latest scientific evidence suggests that they may not be safe. Frequent and long-term use of NSAIDs may increase the risk of heart stroke and attack. Especially, athletes that train for long hours must avoid NSAIDs since it may lead to renal damage. Many athletes have found the inflammation and pain-relieving effects from CBD, which may reduce their dependence on synthetic medication like NSAIDs. Since CBD is a natural compound and is not highly psychoactive, consuming it in small quantities may not cause any adverse effects.

Gut Health

Post-training gut issues are also one of the leading causes for many athletes dropping out of races. Stomach troubles usually occur due to two reasons – dehydration and overheating. CBD may not treat the two conditions mentioned above but may reduce gut issues related to inflammations. GI tract inflammation may cause severe discomfort, and CBD’s anti-inflammatory properties may help alleviate it. The colon also has CB1 and CB2 receptors, so CBD may bind with these cannabinoid receptors, as discussed earlier, and lessen any internal inflammation. So, if you experience gut inflammation during or after exercise, CBD may help you feel better.

Stress and Anxiety Relief

Physical hurdles are not the only ones athletes face. Psychological health conditions like anxiety disorders and mental stress about training and competition are also prevalent among athletes. Studies state that CBD may offer promising results in reducing anxiety effects when consumed in small doses. The anti-anxiety or anxiolytic properties of CBD are responsible for doing so. CBD may increase the serotonin levels in the body, the neurotransmitter associated with mood and sense of well-being. Serotonin levels drop when you feel nervous or anxious about things. Similarly, CBD may also relieve stress by reducing cortisol (stress hormone) levels.

Final Thoughts

CBD is a naturally occurring compound in cannabis plants and may help treat several health conditions. There are a ton of CBD brands and products available lately. However, as a novice user, you must only buy and use high-quality CBD products. If you have any existing medical condition and seek treatment or medication, it’s better to consult your doctor before using CBD. Remember, CBD is not a magic potion but may assist in reducing the severity of any health conditions, so treat it that way.