CBD for Athletes Performance Enhancer or Hype

CBD for athletes performance enhancer or hype. The sales of CBD and products that contain it have quadrupled in the recent past, especially among fitness enthusiasts and sportspersons. Though CBD is yet not under the control of the FDA, it is considered absolutely safe for consumption and there is evidence that proves that it leads to faster muscle repair, improved quality of sleep and enhanced performance levels, all of which are extremely important to those in the sports field.

Benefits of CBD For Athletes

Athletes face a number of issues both during and after the completion of tournaments. CBD is a reliable and effective solution for a number of issues that sportspersons might be facing. 

Here is a list of ways that CBD can be helpful to sportspersons:

• Enhanced muscle repair after a workout
• Reduction of inflammation
• Pain relief
• Enhanced quality of sleep
• Reduces anxiety and depression

Better Muscle Repair After A Workout

Most of the growth and development in muscles occurs only during the recovery phase and not in the active phase, as many imagine. CBD can effectively calm the body to help with the regeneration and growth of new muscle fibres during this phase. This will lead to increased benefits from the workout.

Reduction of inflammation

Studies show that CBD has positive effects on bodily inflammation. According to a review of literature conducted in the year 2022, CBD has direct anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.

There is still a lack of proper research, but a lot of evidence does suggest that CBD may have anti-inflammatory properties. This could be extremely helpful in dealing with diseases like osteoarthritis and other rheumatic conditions. This could also be helpful to those suffering from metabolic diseases like lupus.

Pain Relief

Studies conducted in 2017 have suggested that athletes with medial knee pain benefit significantly with the regular use of CBD.

CBD is also deemed useful in chronic and acute pain. Usually, these pains are associated with overuse of muscles, lack of rest time, injuries that result from overuse of muscles and sometimes they may also be caused due to anxiety faced by sportspersons.

CBD is named as an effective solution to pain and it also helps sportsmen feel more confident and relaxed when they have an important game.

Enhanced quality of sleep

In a study on CBD conducted on around 20 participants, over 66% reported improved overall sleep quality after taking CBD for one month. It was also suggested that CBD reduces anxiety levels in the subjects. 

CBD has been linked to increased levels of natural endocannabinoids. Endocannabinoids are responsible for regulating sleep-wake cycles. It is believed to improve the quality and length of sleep.

It’s also believed that CBD helps regulate REM sleep. This can help reduce fatigue and improve alertness during the day. CBD’s ability to reduce anxiety and stress could also help athletes get a better night’s sleep.

Reduced Anxiety And Depression

CBD has a direct effect on serotonin levels in the body and this will automatically help an athlete feel more calm and composed during a stressful situation. This also positively affects the performance of an individual.

In addition, the interaction between CBD and the endocannibidiol system of the body helps to improve mood and regulate stress.

Both these effects of CBD on the body, ensure that an athlete can be in complete control of his body during the game and also get better rest at night. 

Side Effects Or Risks of CBD

Though CBD is relatively well tolerated, there is a chance that one or more of these side effects might occur.

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Diarrhea
• Changes in appetite and weight
• Nausea
• Low blood pressure

Are There Any Risks Of Using CBD As A Supplement To Enhance Performance?

One of the foremost things that sportspersons should be concerned about is whether or not they will be picked up by their doping committees for the use of CBD.

Since every country has their own rules and regulations to follow, each athlete must check with their particular association.

One thing to remember is that CBD is not on the list of the substances that most countries look out for when they perform the dope tests on sportspersons. 

Another risk that you must keep in mind if you are planning to use CBD in the long term to enhance your performance is your body’s reaction to the substance. Though CBD is completely safe and appropriate for human consumption, it is possible that in the long term, your body might signal that it is not working well with it. There are no studies to prove that CBD is harmful in the long run.

Is It Beneficial For Athletes To Use CBD?

This question is rather subjective and would need to be answered by individual persons. 

Innumerable studies have proved that CBD can work wonders for those suffering from anxiety and helps to calm the nerves. This in itself can be a great boon for athletes, considering that they are usually performing to packed stadiums with several people cheering or booing them.

Though the consumption, purchase and sale of CBD is not yet strictly regulated, you must consult your doctor before you begin to use CBD for any purposes. Your medical practitioner would also be the best person to consult regarding the dosage you can safely consume. 

Your coach and other authorities also will benefit from being in the know of the fact that you plan to use CBD as a performance enhancer.

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