The Complexity of CBD and Sports
Cannabidiol (CBD) has gained significant attention in recent years for its potential therapeutic benefits, including pain relief, inflammation reduction, and improved sleep1. For athletes, these benefits can be particularly appealing. However, the use of CBD in sports is a complex issue due to the presence of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), a psychoactive compound found in cannabis, in many CBD products. The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) allows the use of pure CBD but prohibits THC2. This article will discuss the importance of using pure CBD isolate, which is 100% CBD and contains zero THC, for athletes competing at a high level.
Understanding CBD and THC
CBD and THC are both cannabinoids, compounds found in the cannabis plant. While they share a similar chemical structure, they have different effects on the human body. THC is psychoactive, meaning it can alter one’s mental state or ‘get you high’. CBD, on the other hand, is not psychoactive and is known for its potential therapeutic benefits3.
WADA’s Stance on CBD and THC
WADA has set a urinary threshold for THC at 150 nanograms per milliliter2. If an athlete’s urine sample contains THC levels above this threshold, they could face a doping violation. However, WADA allows the use of pure CBD. This distinction is crucial for athletes who wish to use CBD for its potential benefits.
The Risk of THC in CBD Products
Many CBD products, even those marketed as “THC-free”, can contain traces of THC. This is due to the extraction process used to create CBD products, which can sometimes leave behind trace amounts of other cannabinoids4. If an athlete uses a CBD product that contains enough THC to push their urinary levels above the WADA threshold, they could potentially face a sanction.
The Solution: Pure CBD Isolate
Pure CBD isolate is a form of CBD that is 100% pure and contains zero THC. It is produced by removing all other compounds found in the cannabis plant, including THC. This makes it a safe option for athletes who wish to use CBD without the risk of a doping violation.
The Benefits of CBD for Athletes
Research has suggested that CBD may have several benefits for athletes. These include pain relief, reduced inflammation, improved sleep quality, and potentially even enhanced recovery1. These benefits can help athletes train more effectively and recover more quickly from intense workouts.
Conclusion
For athletes competing at a high level, the use of CBD can offer potential benefits. However, the presence of THC in many CBD products poses a risk of a doping violation. Pure CBD isolate, which is 100% CBD and contains zero THC, offers a solution to this problem. By choosing pure CBD isolate, athletes can enjoy the potential benefits of CBD without the risk of a doping violation.
References
[1]: Aragona, M., Onesti, E., Tomassini, V., Conte, A., Gupta, S., Gilio, F., Pantano, P., Pozzilli, C., Inghilleri, M. (2019). Psychopathological and Cognitive Effects of Therapeutic Cannabinoids in Multiple Sclerosis: A Double-Blind, Placebo Controlled, Crossover Study. Clinical Neuropharmacology, 32(1), 41-47.
[2]: World Anti-Doping Agency. (2021). Prohibited List. Retrieved from https://www.wada-ama.org/sites/default/files/resources/files/2021list_en.pdf
[3]: Russo, E. B. (2011). Taming THC: potential cannabis synergy and phytocannabinoid-terpenoid entourage effects. British Journal of Pharmacology, 163(7), 1344-1364.
[4]: Bonn-Miller, M. O., Loflin, M. J., Thomas, B. F., Marcu, J. P., Hyke, T., & Vandrey, R. (2017). Labeling Accuracy of Cannabidiol Extracts Sold Online. JAMA, 318(17), 1708–1709.
