CBD for Sport, CBD and sport – many of you are probably wondering how these are related. Can cannabis and CBD really help with sports?
Until recently, the cultivation of hemp for fibre, seeds, tea and other products has been allowed again. However, on one condition: that the cannabis grown does not exceed 0.2% THC, which has now been increased to 0.3%. THC is tetrahydrocannabidiol, which occurs naturally in hemp, and high levels of THC cause psychoactive effects and are therefore strictly limited. However, CBD, a widely studied cannabidiol, also occurs naturally in hemp. CBD in particular has a wide range of properties that can benefit a person during sport, but it is not psychoactive and does not cause a feeling of intoxication.
Potential benefits of CBD for sport
Since the legalisation of cannabis products, many of the world’s professional athletes have started to use CBD oil drops to relieve muscle and joint pain and inflammation during sport. Although CBD is one of the most widely studied cannabinoids, scientists continue to extensively study the effects of CBD on the human body.
Current research shows that CBD for sports can help with pain relief and reduce inflammation. This can be useful for athletes who are involved in intense sports and who experience muscle or joint pain.
The WHO, the World Health Organisation, pointed out in a report back in 2018 that CBD for sport does not seem to have the addictive or abusive properties of painkillers. Some studies suggest that CBD may even be one way to treat addiction to painkillers or THC.
Side effects of CBD
Many pharmaceutical drugs cause unwanted side-effects, some with a long list, but CBD side-effects have hardly been reported in studies. Only a small proportion of people experience unwanted side effects:
- Change in appetite
- Change in weight
- Diarrhoea
If you are experiencing other side effects from CBD, it is necessary to review your daily dose. Perhaps it is too high. Otherwise, be sure to get in touch and report any unwanted side effects.
CBD and professional sport
In 2018, the World Anti-Doping Agency removed cannabidiol (CBD) from the list of banned substances, leaving THC, found in hemp, on the list. Although THC has very similar properties to CBD, high levels of THC are addictive, affect short-term memory, and produce psychoactive effects such as intoxication. That’s why professional athletes are subject to a pre-competition drug test, which must be negative. In this case, professional athletes cannot consume full-spectrum CBD oil, which would be allowed to contain up to 0.2% THC. The tests detect even very small amounts that may have been consumed a few days before the test. Athletes should choose reliable suppliers in this case. Tested and quality CBD isolate products that have a weaker effect than full-spectrum CBD products, but still prevent a positive drug test.
What do you need to know before trying CBD products?
If you decide to try CBD oil or another CBD product, it is important to consult your doctor, as CBD may interact with medications you are already taking or affect your existing condition. We recommend that you follow the recommendations given by your doctors.
If you’re trying CBD oil for the first time, start with the lowest dose and don’t use it before or during sport. We recommend that you first familiarise yourself with the effects of CBD on your body, find the right dosage, and then try to use CBD before or during sport.
Summary of CBD for sport
Cannabis and sport seem to be two inextricably linked issues that require further research to fully prove. However, it is CBD that has anti-inflammatory effects and can help to reduce inflammation. In the body, it can relieve joint pain and can also help to reduce tension, anxiety and stress, and allow athletes to relax and perform at their best. CBD can therefore be useful for athletes who participate in intense sports.
For more information on CBD products and their types, see – What is full spectrum CBD?
Article written by the Magu Space team.