Best CBD for Athletes
Athletes place a lot of stress on their bodies, which can offer both benefits and unwelcome consequences. Physical damage and persistent wear and tear encourage adaptation and improved performance, but they can also contribute to injuries and suffering. Current pain management methods are effective, but they can also be harmful to individuals in the long run. Many professional athletes are now turning to cannabidiol (CBD) to pursue its effectiveness for sports recovery and safer pain management.
Chronic use of over-the-counter pain medicine (NSAIDs like ibuprofen and naproxen sodium) offers a more considerable health risk than previously thought, and we are amid an opioid addiction and overdose pandemic that claims the lives of tens of thousands of Americans every year.
In this environment, athletes are understandably interested in cannabidiols’ (CBD) claims of pain and inflammation reduction without the hazards associated with NSAIDs or opioids.
Is CBD the correct choice for you? There’s a lot to unpack and think about here, so settle in and keep reading.
What is CBD?
CBD oil is becoming increasingly popular as a food supplement and a topically applied oil.
Cannabidiol (CBD) is a cannabinoid, a chemical substance that operates throughout the body, including some regions of the brain, and is gaining popularity in the health community. CBD is generated from the hemp plant; however, unlike its counterpart, tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), responsible for the ‘high’ associated with marijuana it is non-intoxicating,
When cannabis is extracted from the plant, it is mixed with a carrier oil, such as olive or coconut oil, to boost bioavailability.
CBD: How to Use It
Every week, new CBD-infused products enter the market. CBD can be consumed in capsules, tablets, or oil and inhaled as a vapor. It’s been added to sports drinks, recovery drinks, and various other foods. CBD oil is also available in topical creams, lotions, and tinctures/drops taken under the tongue.
The way you ingest CBD may impact how quickly you feel its benefits. Because capsules, oil, and edibles must be digested, they may take a little longer. The best CBD cream for athletes is claimed to be faster than edibles, while sublingual drops/tinctures are the quickest (besides inhalation via vaping).
CBD comes in two forms: “full-spectrum” and “isolate.” CBD and other components inherent in the original plant, including minor levels of THC, are found in full-spectrum CBD-infused products. The THC concentration of the original plant must be less than 0.3% if the CBD was obtained from industrial hemp (in Colorado).
While CBD isolate products should only have CBD and zero THC, if you are subjected to zero tolerance drug testing at work or for your sport, you should avoid cannabinoid supplements of any kind as false positives are possible.
What Are the Different CBD Types?
Knowing the many varieties of CBD will assist you in finding the specific product you require. Read this complete description of how different CBD varieties differ and why each is relevant before you buy CBD.
Whole Plant CBD
Whereas some products made from CBD only extract the CBD, others combine the two. The full spectrum of hemp components, including vital terpenes, flavonoids, waxes, and oils, is used from the whole plant.
CBD oils, CBD gummies, and even luxury CBD e-liquids are all examples of delivery methods for whole plant CBD products. Whole-plant CBD does not always contain unlawful quantities of THC and is more difficult to come by. It also appeals to a small number of hemp enthusiasts as opposed to the other CBD products.
Full Spectrum CBD
Although full spectrum CBD lacks the waxes and oils found in the whole plant, it includes minimal amounts of THC. In countries with laxer THC restrictions, full-spectrum products are more common. A wide range of goods is available where full-spectrum CBD products are permitted, with CBD oils and CBD vape liquids being prevalent.
Due to the presence of THC in concentrations greater than 0.2 percent, full-spectrum CBD is illegal in some countries. Also, because of its psychotropic qualities, most CBD users will avoid full spectrum CBD. Zero THC is a safer and more common way to take CBD.
Broad Spectrum CBD
While waxes and oils are removed, broad-spectrum CBD products contain no THC and retain other cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. This is a prevalent type of CBD found in CBD balms and CBD vape liquids in some countries.
Broad-spectrum CBD products provide a more ‘full’ hemp experience, but they don’t offer any additional benefits for CBD users. The inclusion of terpenes and flavonoids in oral products also gives them a more ‘hempy’ flavor, which some people may not like.
CBD Isolate / Pure CBD
CBD isolate is a type of pure CBD product that only extracts CBD from the hemp plant. Pure CBD contains no THC, does not retain the extra hemp components present in the other categories, and blends nicely with carefully selected additives.
Is CBD Legal for Athletes?
Yes. CBD was removed from the list of prohibited drugs – in and out of competition – by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) at the start of 2018. The US Anti-Doping Agency or USADA soon followed, and they have a “Marijuana FAQ” page to explain the laws. There is one major caveat: CBD was the only substance removed from the list of illegal substances. THC, the psychoactive component of marijuana and synthetic cannabinoids, is still illegal in competition.
All-natural and synthetic cannabinoids, such as those found in cannabis (hashish, marijuana) and cannabis products, are prohibited. Synthetic cannabinoids have effects similar to THC. It’s a different story when it comes to legality outside of sports. The legality of cannabis and related products at the federal, state, and local levels is continually changing. Check the laws in your area.
CBD Benefits for Athletes
Cannabis products, which were previously solely available in dispensaries, have suddenly become popular. You’ve probably heard about CBD oil, which has been widely claimed to offer significant health advantages as a pain reliever, stress reliever, and mood booster — all without the euphoric effects of marijuana. That’s correct – CBD products do not cause euphoria, are non-addictive and are legal in all 50 states. They’re also excellent natural supplements for relaxation and athletic rehabilitation.
Now athletes are incorporating CBD into their daily routine. Here’s why:
1. Enhances the Quality and Quantity of Sleep
The importance of sleep in an athlete’s performance cannot be overstated. It gives you the rest, rejuvenation, and vitality you need to perform at your best. Your body will function more efficiently during waking hours if you sleep well.
It is impossible to overstate the importance of sleep for athletes. However, according to a study published in the Journal of Sports Sciences, one in every four athletes suffers from significant sleep disorders. Trouble falling asleep, snoring, and sleep-disordered breathing are just a few of them.
According to research, CBD oil may be the solution for these athletes hoping for a better night’s sleep without the risk of addiction. CBD may assist in enhancing sleep quantity and quality, according to findings from an early trial to see if it helps with sleep and anxiety.
2. Aids in the Reduction of Anxiety
Athletes must maintain their composure under pressure to perform at their best. Unfortunately, when athletes compete, especially when the stakes are significant, anxiousness may quickly take over. CBD appears to help lower anxiety, according to preliminary research.
3. Helps Reduce Inflammation
Playing sports increases your chances of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. Chronic inflammation can limit movement, hinder recovery, and reduce athletic performance by causing pain in the joints and muscles.
CBD reduces inflammation by minimizing swelling and lowering the amounts of cytokines that release pro-inflammatory chemicals into the bloodstream. As a result, CBD can help with inflammatory disorders like arthritis and asthma and more short-term issues.
4. Aids in Pain Relief
Athletes are often seen to be at the pinnacle of physical health, yet they are also prone to muscle soreness, injuries, and chronic discomfort. Opioids, which are extremely powerful painkillers, aren’t always readily available to treat severe pain, and they may not be worth the danger in the first place.
CBD may be just what athletes require to treat pain, according to preliminary research. Patients with pain at various levels from moderate to severe reported lower pain levels after three months of utilizing a CBD medication, according to a study published in the Journal of Cannabis Research in 2021.
5. Boosts Energy Levels
We’ve all had days at the track when simply getting through it is a strain, and some of us have even had awful chronic fatigue syndrome. Fortunately, CBD is a beneficial supplement for enhancing athletes’ energy levels and training performance since it provides users with improved focus and less anxiety. Low doses of CBD (less than 15 mg) have been found in studies to boost alertness and energy levels.
6. Settle Your Gut
GI distress is one of the most common reasons endurance athletes drop out of races due to inflammation in the small and large intestines. CBD won’t fix stomach problems caused by dehydration or overheating (two of the most common causes for athletes). Still, if you have underlying inflammatory issues that create gut difficulties during or after exercise, the therapeutic effects of CBD may help. The colon contains CB1 and CB2 receptors. COLITIS SYMPTOMS WERE REDUCED when CB1 and CB2 receptors were activated in mice.
What Is The Best Way To Use CBD?
It’s simple to incorporate CBD products into your post-workout and sports recovery routine. CBD can be consumed in various ways, including smoking and vaping, eating CBD-infused foods, and applying them directly to the skin. A tincture is one of the most common methods to take CBD, especially for individuals trying it for the first time.
CBD Tincture
A CBD tincture is a liquid form of cannabidiol that is highly concentrated and can be consumed in small amounts with an ml dropper. Don’t be concerned. You will not experience an overdose or get high if you take too much. Pure CBD is bitter, so it’s usually mixed with oils, flavorings, and even honey.
Tea, coffee, soups, sauces, porridge, and smoothies are popular food and beverage items to place a few drops. Under the tongue can also be used to take it sublingually. Sublingually administered drugs appear to be absorbed more quickly by the body. Keep the tincture drops under your tongue for at least one minute before swallowing to allow them to assimilate.
CBD Topicals
Athletes can benefit from CBD topicals in a variety of ways. Using a topical before a workout or training session can help keep pain at bay while you’re working out or training. Similarly, applying a CBD topical after a workout may aid in the recovery of aching muscles. Because of its anti-inflammatory effects and capacity to reduce pain, CBD topicals are ideal for sore muscles.
A topical might take the form of a balm, cream, lotion, or ointment. Anything that involves a little rubbing or massaging is ideal for most athletes. You might be able to find comfort by applying a CBD topical right into a problem area.
CBD for Athletes – Key Takeaways
When it comes to pain relief, inflammation, and mental wellness, CBD is a fantastic choice for athletes and active people. Because the molecule is naturally generated, it can be used as a substitute for regular pharmaceuticals, but it should be treated as though it could show up on a drug test. Although CBD and THC are separate and have different effects, there is a link between the two, particularly in sports. When using CBD as an athlete, always look to reputable goods and firms with correct label claims and third-party lab test findings.
Why Choose Mojave for Your CBD Needs?
Mojave offers a choice of easy-to-use CBD products and techniques for incorporating CBD supplements into your everyday sports routine, allowing you to take advantage of CBD’s various healing properties. Mojave was created on the belief that CBD is a natural wonder. We believe you get the right to know what’s in your CBD products. It is our purpose and vow never to mislead the content of our products and to test our product range in world-class labs. Every consumer’s order is made with industry-leading quality, honesty, and affection.
Ready for a change? Shop our CBD products here.
Disclaimer
The statements expressed on this website are purely opinion of the author and not factual. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Any products referenced on this website are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. It’s highly suggested to consult with your medical professional prior to any use of the products referenced on this website. This website and author specifically disclaim any liability in connection with the products contained on the website.