Can CBD or THC Enhance Athletic Performance?
CBD and THC have gained popularity over the years. But do these cannabinoids really enhance athletic performance? Read on for a complete guide.
Now that cannabis has gained popularity in various states, researchers are starting to debunk common myths and misconceptions. The social stigma is also loosening up among athletes—fitness experts are embracing the miracle drug to take their performance to the next level.
After extensive research on whether CBD can enhance performance, here are some of our discoveries;
- CBD Reduces Inflammation
Reducing joint and muscle inflammation are the major benefits of cannabis. Research indicates that non-psychoactive cannabis helps ease inflammation. For this reason, researchers are considering the possibility that CBD can treat autoimmune conditions like psoriasis and lupus.
Any athlete dealing with muscle inflammation or recovering from past surgery or injury would benefit from considering CBD. However, for optimal performance, many athletes opt for topical CBD products instead of smoking marijuana.
Topicals and tinctures are ideal for recovery, and you avoid getting high.
- Treating Muscle Spasms
Another benefit of CBD for athletes is treating muscle spasms. Cannabis has shown great results in treating muscle spasms from diseases like Parkinson’s and M.S.
These benefits can extend to athletes suffering from muscle spasms. After applying CBD to their muscles, many athletes experience quick relief from its healing properties.
- THC improve Sleep
It’s not a secret that THC improves quality of sleep. Research indicates it can also be especially beneficial for people suffering from PTSD and those with suppressed dreams or sleep apnea. CBD eases REM sleeping disorders and fatigue. Lower stress levels improve sleep duration and quality.
Every athlete knows sleep is important to their overall fitness. A restful night of sleep can boost an athlete’s performance. Many athletes using traditional sleep medications should opt for CBD as it is natural and healthier. Taking a few CBD pills before bed can improve your quality of sleep and help you wake up refreshed and well-rested.
- Enhanced Mental Acuity
Popular thinking suggests cannabis has detrimental effects on brain function. However, the reality is the opposite.
Regular low doses of THC enhance cognitive function. Similarly, various fitness experts claim cannabis helps them get in the ‘zone’ when working out. It’s a great option to up an athlete’s mental game and increase their focus. CBD helps athletes achieve a meditative flow state that is vital for success.
Don’t fall into the myth that cannabis is bad for your mental health. Athletes can focus on the meditative flow state and get a performance boost.
- Alleviate Pain
Apart from its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD also eases soreness and pain. Cannabis can alleviate various types of pain, from chronic to acute pain.
This is good news for any athlete that relies on habit-forming opiates. Society’s norms and beliefs have shaped cannabis as something everyone should stay away from. However, research strongly points to the benefits of CBD, such as alleviating pain and reducing inflammation.
For those who feel too reliant on opiates, cannabis can be a lifesaver for physical pain.
Legality in Athletics
In 2018, the World Anti-Doping Agency removed CBD from its list of prohibited substances. However, significant athletic organizations and sports leagues still prohibit using THC.
If you’re an athlete, the safest cannabinoid is CBD. Unlike THC, CBD isolate products do not produce THC-positive results on a drug test. Yet, there are instances in which athletes do test positive for THC after consuming CBD—conflicting, right?
This is one of the dangers of purchasing CBD from an unreliable source. Purity and legitimacy of ingredients is critical!
The Takeaway
Without a doubt, CBD can enhance an athlete’s performance. But you should always consult with your physician if you have concerns. Your physician will be able to advise you on the correct dosage—you’ll want to start with a lower dosage to see how your body reacts and go from there.
Ready to give CBD a try? Burman’s Health Shop has a variety of CBD products, from gummies and tinctures to topicals. Shop online to find the product that’s right for you!
Disclaimer:
The statements made regarding these products have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The efficacy of these products has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. All information presented here is not meant as a substitute for or alternative to information from health care practitioners. Please consult your health care professional about potential interactions or other possible complications before using any product. The Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act requires this notice.
