Welcome to the crazy and fantastic universe of endocannabinoids and their connection to CBD! Are you aware that your body creates its version of the compounds found in the cannabis plant, called endocannabinoids? These sneaky little molecules help regulate everything from your mood, appetite, and pain response. And that's where CBD comes in! CBD can help you chill out, feel less pain, and sleep better by interacting with your body's endocannabinoid system.
Read more to find out…
Understanding 'Runner's High.' What is it?
Runner's high is a phenomenon experienced by many athletes during and after exercise, characterized by feelings of euphoria, relaxation, and reduced pain perception. Scientists have long believed that endorphins, the body's natural painkillers, were solely responsible for this experience. However, recent research suggests that endocannabinoids, 'the natural cannabis' in our system, also play a significant role!
During exercise, the body produces endocannabinoids, which are believed to help regulate pain, mood, and appetite. These endocannabinoids are similar in structure to the cannabinoids found in cannabis, including CBD. As endocannabinoid levels rise during exercise, they help create the feeling of a runner's high.
The intake of CBD also interacts with the endocannabinoid system, potentially enhancing the effects of endocannabinoids and promoting feelings of relaxation and well-being. CBD may help athletes achieve a runner's high more easily or improve the experience of an athletic journey!
Endocannabinoids and what do they do?
Endocannabinoids, also known as our cannabis compounds, are naturally occurring compounds in the body essential for controlling many physiological processes, such as mood, appetite, pain, and sleep. These compounds are common in structure to the cannabis plant's cannabinoids, such as CBD and THC.
It is also responsible for homeostasis and balance in the body. It controls various processes, including immune function, metabolism, and cell communication. When there is an imbalance or fluctuation in the body, endocannabinoids are produced to help restore balance!
Endocannabinoids provide physical benefits but also help the body relax when exposed to stress and regulate pain and inflammation. They also play a role in mood disorders such as anxiety and depression.
What Stimulates the Endocannabinoid System?
Physical exercise is one of the most well-known ways to stimulate the endocannabinoid system. The body produces more endocannabinoids when you exercise, which is responsible for the "runner's high" experienced by some athletes.
Stress is another factor that can stimulate the endocannabinoid system. When the body is under high stress, it produces endocannabinoids to help regulate the stress response and restore balance.
Certain foods may also stimulate the endocannabinoid system. For example, dark chocolate contains compounds that can increase levels of endocannabinoids in the body.
Finally, cannabinoids from the cannabis plant, such as THC and CBD, are also a natural and safe way to stimulate the endocannabinoid system by binding to cannabinoid receptors in the body. This is why CBD is used for medicinal purposes, as it can help regulate various physiological processes through its effects on the endocannabinoid system.
How Does CBD Affect the Endocannabinoid System?
Picture this: your body has a superhero system called the ECS (endocannabinoid system). It regulates things like pain, mood, appetite, and sleep. But sometimes, even superheroes need a little help. That's where CBD comes in!
CBD acts like a sidekick to the ECS, helping it work even better. CBD does this by interacting with cannabinoids and other receptors in the body. One of the main things it can do is block enzymes that break down endocannabinoids, which means those helpful molecules stick around in your body for longer.
But that's not all - CBD also activates other receptors in the body, like TRPV1, which helps regulate pain and inflammation. And it can even stimulate the production of happy molecules like anandamide.
So think of CBD as the Robin to your ECS's Batman - together, they make a powerful team that can help keep your body in tip-top shape!
How CBD affects the receptors in the body.
CBD binds to receptors on the endocannabinoid system to interact with it and modulates the activity of cannabinoid receptors, specifically CB2 and CB1 receptors. While CB2 receptors are mainly in immune cells and peripheral organs, CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and central nervous system.
CBD interacts with receptors in the body, such as serotonin and dopamine, crucial in controlling stress, anxiety, and mood. CBD can positively impact focus, philosophy, and behaviour by interacting with these receptors.
How Can You Add CBD to Your Diet?
Incorporating CBD into your diet is crucial to supporting your endocannabinoid system and making it work its magic. Here are some ways to add CBD to your diet:
- CBD Oil: Oil is among the most popular forms of CBD intake. You can consume it using sublingual tinctures, or a few drops of CBD oil can be added to food or drink, such as smoothies or coffee. CBD or CBD oil can also be used as a cooking ingredient, but it should not be overheated, as high temperatures can break down the CBD.
- CBD Edibles: Another popular option is CBD-infused edibles, such as gummies, chocolates, or protein powder. These products come in various variants, flavors, and dosages, making them a convenient and tasty way to take CBD.
To know the correct dosage, checking with a doctor/Healthcare provider before consuming CBD is crucial.
In conclusion, understanding the endocannabinoid system and its connection to CBD is essential for unlocking the potential therapeutic benefits of this fascinating compound. CBD has the strong potential to interact with the body's endocannabinoid system and other receptors, potentially relieving a range of conditions, from discomfort and inflammation to worry and sadness. While additional study is required to comprehend the effects of CBD completely, it is clear that this compound holds significant promise as a natural, plant-based remedy for a wide range of health concerns. As we discover more and more information on the endocannabinoid system and its interactions with CBD, we may find even more ways to harness the power of this incredible system for better health and well-being.
