Cannabidiol (CBD) provides physical and mental gains for high performance athletes. Unlike THC, the substance is not psychoactive.
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the substances extracted from marijuana. Unlike THC, it has no narcotic effects, i.e. it does not cause changes in brain function. Also, the resource can provide a number of benefits to athletes.
A 2020 review published in Sports Medicine looked at preclinical animal studies and clinical studies of CBD in non-athletic populations. The authors found that the substance may promote potentially beneficial physiological, biochemical and psychological effects for athletes.
One of the key findings of the review is that CBD can help relieve inflammatory pain associated with tissue damage and neuropathic pain caused by nerve damage or irritation. This could signal an important boon for endurance athletes: Long-distance repetitive exercise can trigger inflammation and irritation of peripheral nerves.
Protection against gastrointestinal damage
The study also found that cannabidiol may protect against gastrointestinal damage. Athletes who regularly engage in strenuous activity can reduce the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the gastrointestinal (GI) tract.
Gastrointestinal stress can negatively affect exercise performance and recovery due to nausea, vomiting, and impaired nutritional absorption. Additionally, preclinical research has shown that CBD can reduce tissue damage and restore intestinal permeability.
CBD and bone health
The authors provided further evidence that the substance extracted from marijuana can aid in the deposition of healthy bones and help heal fractures. This benefit is essential for athletes, as traumatic injuries and inadequate energy availability can compromise bone health.
sports performance anxiety
CBD may also help athletes manage sports performance anxiety, according to Sports Medicine studies. Anxiety before a competition can cause sleep loss, increase energy expenditure and compromise nutritional intake.
According to the review authors, studies in non-athletes have indicated that the active can ease anxiety in stressful situations. It can be even more effective when combined with psychological interventions such as cognitive behavioral therapies.
CBD can protect the brain from injury
Another 2020 study, published in Pharmacological Research, also weighed the validity and applicability of existing CBD research for athletes. These authors came to similar conclusions, but with a slightly different emphasis.
The neuroprotective properties of the substance have the potential to counteract the damage that can occur after a sports-related concussion. These concussions are considered a variation of mild traumatic brain injury and can lead to harmful long-term complications such as neuronal damage.
The study authors point to recent animal research showing that CBD oil can help treat pain, aggression, and depression associated with mild traumatic brain injury. The oil also helped counteract neuronal damage in the prefrontal cortex of the brain, as well as inhibiting oxidative stress.
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Source: Terra
Benjamin Smith is a fashion journalist and author at Gossipify, known for his coverage of the latest fashion trends and industry insights. He writes about clothing, shoes, accessories, and runway shows, providing in-depth analysis and unique perspectives. He’s respected for his ability to spot emerging designers and trends, and for providing practical fashion advice to readers.
