CBD and Fitness: How They Work Together

by Wendy Melton

Everyone is talking about CBD and wondering if this is the key to a new frontier in fitness recovery. In this article we will analyze CBD and its studies, effects, dosages and more. 

CBD better known as Cannabidiol is produced by cannabis flowers. It has been used for medicinal purposes for centuries. CBD offers many therapeutic properties that are continually being researched and tested. Scientists are confirming what the ancient healers already knew. Cannabidiol and many of the other components found in the cannabis plant are not only safe to use, but offer many healing benefits as well. In fact, cannabidiol is proving to be safe to use as well as very beneficial for individuals who are trying to stay fit and healthy.

What Is CBD?

Cannabidiol is one of over a hundred components (also referred to as phytocannabinoids) found in the cannabis plant that has been proven to have numerous healing properties. It is not addictive and can be taken on a regular basis to provide relief from pain, inflammation, anxiety, and depression.

What Does CBD Do?

Although it is closely related to the THC that made cannabis famous, it acts differently within the body. THC produces the well-known “high”, while CBD acts as a neutralizer. CBD acts on pain receptors within the body to lessen discomfort and actually dissipate inflammation. It works within the brain to reduce anxiety and elevate a person's mood. CBDs work within the endocannabinoid system within the body. As a whole, this system works to regulate various functions within the body including the neurological and metabolic systems.

What Are the Benefits and Effects of CBD?

Because of how CBD affects certain receptors throughout the body, it is able to calm neurological conditions such as Parkinson's, epilepsy, dementia, and the effects of traumatic brain injuries. It can also minimize the effects of autoimmune disorders by eliminating inflammation and blocking joint pain, such as what is produced by conditions like rheumatoid arthritis. It can also be used to counter cardiovascular conditions like arrhythmia and atherosclerosis.

What Is the Legality of CBD?

Where you live will determine the legality of CBD. In most states, some legislation has been passed allowing for the use of CBD in specific forms. While it may not be true in every area, many states are moving forward with the legalization of CBD oils and other products as research continues to show the extent of the health benefits it offers. If you are unsure of what types of CBD or other cannabis-related products are legal in your state, talk to your doctor or ask a local health professional.

What Types of CBD Products Are Available?

There are many different CBD products available. You can choose from edible gummies, CBD oil, creams, lotions, and capsules. Some people prefer to use gummies or the oil because they are easier to swallow. Others like capsules. Athletes will often use the cream or lotion because of its convenience as well as the fact that it soothes the muscles and tones the skin.

What form you use is strictly up to you. Scientists are finding that CBD is effective in almost any form so, no matter how you consume it, you will receive the benefits. The gummies and oil will offer the quickest absorption, while the capsules and lotions/creams may take a little longer to find their way into your system.

Are There Side Effects with CBD?

While there are very few negative side effects of using CBD products, you should be aware that cannabidiol may counteract certain medications. These include steroids, antihistamines, immune modulators, HIV antivirals, and calcium channel blockers, just to name a few. If you have concerns about CBD and how it may affect other medications you take on a daily basis, discuss your options with your doctor.

Can CBD Be Used to Help Me Reach My Fitness Goals?

There is a definite link between CBD and physical fitness. Any time you exercise, your joints are put under stress. This stress often leads to inflammation, which in turn, leads to pain and discomfort. The more you workout, the higher your risk of stressing your joints. CBD has been shown to possibly strengthen the heart and cardiovascular system. This improves circulation, carrying fresh oxygen and nutrients throughout your body.

The fact that CBD works on the endocannabinoid system that helps to regulate many of the body's functions, including the uptake of nutrients, means that not only will it help you reach your fitness goals, it will assist you in maintaining them. Using CBD on a regular basis can help you lay the foundation for an effective fitness regimen that will provide you with long-term benefits.

Can CBD Be Used for Joint Pain?

CBD is effective for relieving both joint and muscle pain due to its ability to bind with different receptors throughout the body. By improving blood flow throughout the body, there is much less inflammation in the joints and surrounding tissues. If inflammation already exists, CBD works to gradually eliminate the inflammation by improving blood flow to the tissues and flushing out the toxins and other debris that may be accumulating near the joint.

What Is the Best Supplement to Stack with CBD When It Comes to Joint Pain?

Joyful Joints by Vital Alchemy Supplements is one of the most effective joint products on the market when it comes to controlling joint pain. Joyful Joints also contains Hyaluronic Acid which is extremely efficient at reducing the risk of injury and damage to the joints. It enhances the lubrication of the joints and helps to keep cartilage strong and extremely resilient. It also contains glucosamine, which has been used for years in supplements that provide quality joint support. Strong also offers a line of CBD products that are extremely effective for individuals who work out regularly and stacking a good cbd supplement with Joyful Joints will create a very effective and synergistic result. 

Is CBD Good for Muscle Recovery? Why?

Using CBD creams and lotions has been shown to be effective at helping injured muscles and joints to heal. The CBD is absorbed into the skin and goes directly into the injured area. When combined with massage, the use of CBD is twice as beneficial. Deep tissue massage can work the CBD deep into the tissues, providing effective pain relief as well as aiding in the elimination of the inflammation that can cause so much discomfort. The use of CBD can effectively minimize the need for NSAIDs that may be harmful if taken in large quantities.

What Is the Best Dosage for CBD?

You will have to take several factors into consideration to determine how much CBD you will need to achieve the desired results. Your body weight, body chemistry, your fitness goals, health conditions, and the amount of CBD contained in each drop, gummy, capsule, or lotion will all have to be factored together to find your individual dosage.

What Is the Best Time to Take CBD?

Because of how CBD works in the body, many people have found it beneficial to take it in the morning or around lunchtime. Taking it when you first wake up or around the time you eat lunch provides you with an extra boost of energy during the middle of the day. If you workout in the evening, taking your dose of CBD in the early afternoon will give you a boost of energy around the time of your workout, making the time you spend in the gym more effective. It will also put the CBD in your muscles when it is needed the most.

What Have the CBD Studies Shown?

Research studies performed on CBD have proven that it, as well as the other components found in cannabis, have substantial healing properties. These components have also shown to have a direct connection with both muscle recovery and relief of the pain and inflammation that often accompany a hard workout. By incorporating the use of CBD into your daily workout routine, you provide your body with the support it needs, as well as elevating your mood and enhancing your overall outlook.

Where Can I Buy CBD?

One of the best places to purchase CBD products for individuals who work out on a regular basis is the Strong Supplement Shop. They offer a wide selection of CBD products for anyone who is into fitness and maintaining their good health and wellness. The Strong Supplement Shop has a positive reputation for carrying quality CBD products that are designed for individuals who are involved in staying fit and healthy.

Studies are proving that CBD and fitness go hand in hand. The more research you do on your own about CBD products and how they work within your body, the better your understanding will be when it comes to what your body needs to remain fit and healthy.

Authored by Wendy Melton. 

Wendy is a freelance writer/photographer and former bodybuilder. As a Natural Health Consultant, she is well-versed in how CBD and other products that can affect your physical fitness. Wendy has a Masters in Natural Health and has published articles on livestrong and ehow sites. 

Sources

https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23685330

https://www.healthline.com/health/cbd-oil-for-pain

https://healthline.com/health/cbd-dosage#how-much-to-take

https://www.nm.org/healthbeat/medical-advances/science-and-research/what-research-says-about-cbd-oil