Using CBD as an Athlete: Is It Safe?
Backstory: What Is CBD + Here It’s Headed
Cannabidiol (CBD) derived from the hemp plant has been widely covered in the media for all its health benefits and the market is now flooded with numerous food and cosmetic CBD products. According to the 2018 Farm Bill, hemp-derived products are only considered legal if they contain less than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). THC is the psychoactive chemical contained in certain strains of the hemp plant. On the other hand, CBD cannot cause a person to get “high” and is responsible for assisting with pain, inflammation, anxiety, and insomnia. Studies suggest that CBD may help with both falling asleep and staying asleep.
An animal study from the European Journal of Pain showed that CBD applied on the skin could help lower pain and inflammation due to arthritis. While more controlled studies in humans are needed to better understand the claims of CBD in the treatment of pain, there has been much anecdotal evidence in the media. Furthermore, according to a 2018 report from the World Health Organization (WHO), CBD in humans exhibits no effects indicative of any abuse or dependence potential.
CBD + Athletes: Is It Safe?
Athletes participating in intensive exercise or even “weekend warriors” can safely take CBD products without being concerned that they will fail a drug test. Some scientific research even suggests that CBD can be used as a way to treat addiction to opioids and other substances without the risks associated with dependence. Athletes can take a range of CBD products including liquid tinctures or other edibles such as gummies, capsules, or soft gels, or use skin creams or muscle balms which can be applied directly on the skin localized at the site of pain or injury.
In 2018, the World Anti-Doping Agency removed CBD from its list of prohibited substances. Groovy Waves high-quality products only use hemp-derived CBD that is THC free. Consumers and athletes can have peace of mind when using Groovy Waves food and cosmetic products. Groovy Waves routinely tests all its cannabis extracts for potency and all potential contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and bacteria.
While many people experience relaxation with CBD, some can also experience the opposite effects of fatigue and irritability. CBD may interact with some medications, causing a change in their metabolism. This is especially true of drugs that are processed by the liver. Groovy Waves recommends that consumers discuss taking CBD with their healthcare professional prior to starting any treatment regimen.
If you are new to using CBD products, start first with a low dose (1-5 mg) and see how your body reacts. Do not use CBD products for the first time before an athletic competition or workout. When you become comfortable with how your body reacts, then you can start to use higher doses and can consider taking it before or even during physical activity.
While there is still more information to be gained in the interaction of CBD and its impact on athletes, CBD products from Groovy Waves offer athletes the choice of different dosage forms that deliver health benefits and the peace of mind that comes from using high-quality THC-free products from a reputable company.