Why are more and more athletes using CDB products? Cannabidiol (CBD) is a natural compound extracted from hemp and cannabis plants. But, unlike other chemicals in the cannabis plant, CBD doesn't make a person high, which is why it's infused with a wide variety of products.
CBD appears to have properties that help improve sports performance and recovery. And since the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) removed it from the list of prohibited substances in 2018, CBD use among sports professionals has grown and become more frequent.
But what type of CBD product is right for you as an athlete? How can you take advantage of it for better sports performance? Check out this guide to help you get started.
Know The Different Types of CBD
Like any other product, CBD also comes in different types and forms. And there might be a difference in the efficacy, side effects, and dosage required, depending on the kind of CBD you use. There's no clear answer to tell you which type is perfect for you. But knowing what these types are can help you choose the right CBD for your specific needs in sports.
Below are several common types of CBD products you'll likely come across:
CBD Isolate
Isolate is the purest type of CBD. It doesn't have any other cannabinoids or natural compounds of the cannabis plant. This can be a safe choice for athletes who need to undergo drug testing or avoid exposure to THC altogether.
Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is considered the primary psychoactive compound responsible for the high sensation of smoking marijuana. Note that compared to other types, the potential benefits of CBD isolate could be limiting.
Full-Spectrum CBD
This type of CBD is extracted from the whole hemp plant, so they contain all cannabinoids. While this can mean higher potency and more therapeutic benefits, the presence of THC and other prohibited cannabinoids might be a concern for athletes. Even if the THC content is less than 0.3%, the trace amounts could build up and appear in a drug test.
Broad-Spectrum CBD
This type of CBD also carries a variety of natural cannabinoids. Thus, it can produce the same therapeutic effects with a full-spectrum. The only difference is that it has zero THC content. This means that athletes like you can use it confidently without worrying about having traces of THC within your system.
Understand the Various Forms of CBD
CBD products also come in various forms, and each has a different method for how to take them. Some CBD you can consume on the go, while others may require time and patience. And choosing the best one ultimately depends on your daily routine and whether potency or convenience is essential for you.
Here are several popular forms of CBD that you may want to try for sports performance:
Vaping
Vaping is the quickest way to potentially feel the effects of CBD. The CBD gets absorbed into the bloodstream within minutes after inhalation through the lung tissues. Its instantaneous calming effects can also stick around for three to four hours.
That's why many athletes who quit smoking have turned to vaping CBD. However, if you're struggling to quit or cut back and don't want to switch to vaping yet, you can also use safer alternatives free from tobacco, nicotine, and additives. There are many products available in the market that can help.
Edibles
This form of CBD product includes anything that you can ingest, from drinks to candy and capsules. CBD edibles are a great alternative to consuming CBD, especially when you're on the go or have busy schedules. It's also easier to know and adjust the dosage when you take CBD as an edible. But, the effects take longer to kick in than vaping, typically around 30 to 60 minutes.
Topicals
CBD topicals are easy to use and are available as creams, balms, skin lotions, and patches. You can use them for muscle strains, inflammation, and injuries. The time for CBD topicals to take effect can vary, but they're all gradually released into the bloodstream over an extended period.
While this form of CBD can be very effective for pain relief, topicals often need to contain higher amounts of CBD. Thus, making it more expensive.
Oil
Next to vaping, CBD oil is the second fastest way CBD takes effect. You can take CBD oil by placing a few drops under your tongue. This allows the CBD to reach your bloodstream more quickly and makes you feel the relaxation and pain relief effects.
Determine the Right Dosage for You
There's no one standard dosage for consuming CBD. It depends on your experience and the type and forms of CBD you use. How you want to use CBD can also influence the correct dosage. If you use a CBD isolate, you may need to consume more than taking a full-spectrum one.
But, generally, it's always best to start with a low dose. If it doesn't give you the expected outcome, you can gradually increase the dosage until you find the ideal amount. Note that measuring your intake would be tricky if you smoke or vape CBD. If you want to figure out the exact dosage easier, taking CBD as a capsule might be a better option.
Look for Third-Party Certified CBD Products
Companies would always claim that their CBD products are safe and contain the right amount of ingredients. But, as an athlete, you'd want to ensure that the product doesn't contain THC or any substances prohibited by WADA.
When buying a CBD product, always look for a brand assessed and certified by third-party laboratories. This can help you prevent consuming a product that doesn't contain what it says on the label and minimize your risk of a doping violation.
Prioritize Safety in Your CDB Consumption
CBD can be a viable supplement for your sports regimen. But, while it has promising benefits for your sports recovery and performance, always prioritize safety when consuming any CBD products. Thus, ensure to work with a healthcare professional when incorporating CBD into your daily routine.
