The pursuit for a healthier lifestyle has become a top priority for many people in recent years. One of the ways to achieve this is through exercise and workouts. However, it should be noted that post-workout recovery is as important as the exercise itself – and it can be a good idea to support it with certain supplements..
With that being said, there is a trend toward moving to natural health supplements, and it should not be much of a surprise. Synthetic substances often come with long lists of potential side effects, leaving conscious consumers looking for a safer alternative.
Among those supplements, a natural alternative that is gaining popularity is hemp-derived cannabidiol (or CBD), a compound linked to reduced inflammation and improved overall wellness. But can CBD support your natural post-workout routine? Read on to find out!
Reducing Inflammation
When you exercise, your muscles are exposed to stress and pressure that can cause soreness. This response is a natural part of the body's healing process, as the inflammation is there to support muscle recovery.
Still, it can become excessive and result in stiffness and pain. CBD's anti-inflammatory properties can help you reduce that inflammation, speeding up recovery time and minimizing soreness. An article published in Frontiers in Physiology notes that although the research is still not conclusive – primarily due to the lack of long-term study on elite athletes – CBD shows a promise of more efficient recovery from post-workout inflammation and fatigue.
Providing Pain Relief
On top of helping minimize muscle soreness and inflammation, CBD can also help alleviate pains related to post-workout tension. This can be [insert] to the way CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, the body's natural network of receptors and neurotransmitters. The endocannabinoid system is responsible for regulating bodily functions, including pain perception.
Current research suggests that CBD prevents endocannabinoids from breaking, allowing them to remain in the body longer and therefore increase their overall effects. In other words, unlike THC, which binds to cannabinoid receptors preventing them from transmitting further signals, CBD has the opposite effect, allowing the body to better process, absorb and utilize various compounds.
Improving Sleep Quality
Getting enough sleep is crucial for overall productivity and well-being. In fact, it plays an essential role in post-workout recovery. During sleep, the body produces growth hormones that help repair and regenerate muscles and joints. Needless to say, by getting sufficient rest, you can enhance your physical performance and prevent injuries, ensuring that you are ready for the next workout.
It is worth mentioning that thanks to its ability to support healthy ECS reactions, cannabidiol can be a great option to improve sleep quality. Apart from supporting pain response, CBD may also help reduce stress and anxiety, which can be major disruptors of quality sleep – and thus, of your workout performance.
Reducing Anxiety Levels
Anxiety can significantly hinder post-workout recovery, as prolonged increased cortisol levels can prevent natural recovery processes. Hemp-derived CBD can help to reduce anxiety levels by interacting with the ECS and inhibiting cortisol absorption – as a result, promoting a sense of calmness and relaxation.
A study published in Neurotherapeutics found that CBD may have therapeutic potential for treating anxiety disorders thanks to the way it affects homeostasis. The same study also found that CBD may produce anxiety in people with generalized social anxiety disorder (SAD), which is why it is crucial to research forms and dosage of CBD products before turning to them for relief.
Versatile Consumption Methods
Thanks to its chemical structure, CBD can be used in a wide range of products, from conventional oils and tinctures to topicals, gummies, and even drinks.
CBD oils and tinctures are the most common form of CBD consumption, as they allow for accurate dosing and fast absorption. On the other hand, topicals such as creams and ointments can be applied directly to the affected area, providing localized relief and faster recovery. Gummies and edibles can be a great choice for those who prefer a no-fuss and enjoyable way to take CBD. You can even add a few drops of CBD oil to smoothies or protein shakes to get your daily dose.
Investing in your physical performance is a serious commitment that requires attention to detail. That's why it's essential to choose premium, USDA organic CBD products that have undergone rigorous lab testing to ensure purity and accurate dosage. By doing so, you can rest assured that you're giving your body the best possible support for recovery, both inside and out.
Conclusion
Incorporating hemp-derived CBD into your post-workout routine can provide a range of benefits, from speeding up recovery time to improving overall well-being. With its various benefits, cannabidiol is a practical and natural way to maximize your performance and support your post-workout routine.
While more research is needed to fully understand the benefits of CBD, the existing studies suggest that it has excellent potential as a natural and safe option. However, it's important to note that while hemp CBD is generally considered safe, it can interact with other medications, so it's always a good idea to consult your doctor before trying any new supplement.
