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Scientific Research On The Effectiveness Of CBD For Athletes

15 July 2023

Would you consider using CBD as an athlete but are curious about what scientific research says about the efficacy of this natural product? CBD is currently all the rage. People are using it for sleep disorders, anxiety, and stress, and athletes can greatly benefit from it. Scientific research also suggests that CBD oil can be beneficial. We’ve summarized the findings for you.
 

Scientific Research on CBD and Sports

Are you an enthusiastic athlete wondering whether it’s worth using CBD? Engaging in regular sports activities puts a different kind of strain on your body compared to someone less active. CBD can be used to support your body. Below, you’ll learn what this natural product based on CBD (cannabidiol) can offer in terms of performance, recovery, and well-being.

CBD for Enhanced Performance

Whether you compete or not, many athletes aim for optimal performance. Research has shown that CBD is an effective pain reliever. It is efficient for inflammation-related pain, neuropathic pain, and muscle soreness. During a workout, you may experience pain (muscular or joint pain, or stiff joints). CBD can quickly alleviate the pain, allowing you to move freely and concentrate on your sport.

Additionally, CBD can positively affect your mood. Many athletes struggle with performance anxiety and stress. CBD is known for its calming and anti-anxiety properties. Studies indicate that it’s effective for various types of anxiety. Moreover, it can help sharpen your focus, essential for optimal athletic performance.

Research on CBD and Recovery in Athletes

Post intensive workout, muscle soreness can be an issue. This is caused by minor muscle damage which leads to inflammation. To some extent, this promotes recovery. However, excessive inflammation can hinder recovery. With its anti-inflammatory properties, CBD can aid athletes in recovering faster.

CBD for Well-being

In other areas too, CBD can be a beneficial supplement. Studies have shown that this natural product can assist with sleep issues. Poor sleep can undermine your energy levels and thus your performance. CBD can aid in falling asleep more easily and sleeping more soundly. Its calming effects can be beneficial if you suffer from anxiety, be it sports-related or pertaining to work or social contexts.

Top Athletes’ Experiences

Is it a good idea for athletes to use CBD? The following top athletes think so!

Mike Tyson, the world-famous heavyweight boxer with numerous titles, is one of the most recognized athletes who openly admits to using CBD. He says that after enduring so much during his 20-year boxing career, he used to rely on opiates for pain relief.

He now turns to the medicinal properties of CBD, stating that it has truly changed his life. He incorporates it daily into his training regimen and hopes other athletes will steer clear of opiates due to addiction risks.

MMA fighter Nate Diaz consistently uses CBD, both pre and post-fights. In 2016, he even vaped CBD publicly during a press conference, endorsing its use for athletes. It aids his overall recovery, acts as a pain reliever, and fights inflammation.

Following a comprehensive study by the UFC, which showed no unwanted substances in his system, the WADA (World Anti-Doping Agency) removed CBD from its list of prohibited substances.

Professional crossfit athlete Brooke Ence also uses CBD. Though initially skeptical about health miracles, she finds that CBD helps improve her sleep, reduces joint pain, and speeds up muscle recovery.

Safety and Side Effects of CBD for Athletes

Those pondering the safety of CBD oil before, during, or after sports can be assured. CBD is a supplement safe for prolonged use without addictive qualities and has minimal side effects.

In rare instances, you might experience changes in appetite, dizziness, or fatigue. Reducing the dose or taking a break from CBD can help in such cases.

All competing athletes can also use CBD. As previously mentioned, WADA delisted CBD as a prohibited substance in 2018, and the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) followed suit. Note, however, that only CBD was removed. THC, the psychoactive component of cannabis, remains prohibited.

The CBD Oil from SupMedi can be used worry-free. Our oil contains less than 0.3% THC, making it permissible for use even before or during a competition. In the Netherlands, CBD oil must also contain no more than 0.3% THC.

Always familiarize yourself with the legislation in other countries concerning supplements, especially CBD. Even within Europe, CBD use and sale aren’t universally accepted, and the laws can be confusing. If you’re competing or training abroad, ensure you’re well-informed about local regulations.

Check out our range of CBD products