Can CBD Really Help Physically Active People?

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Physically Active People

CBD is currently having a moment. CBD oil is the topic of many blogs and news stories across the web and is now sold in many different locations and stores. As someone who is physical activity, you’ve likely seen ads or read testimonials that claim CBD topicals help for post-workout soreness. Is there truth to the claims or is it all exaggerated hype? Could CBD help runners, cyclists, body builders, and other physically active individuals? In this article, we dive into the science behind muscle soreness and CBD topicals to help answer that question. 

Post-Workout Soreness & Muscle Pain

Before exploring CBD as a potential resource for muscle soreness, it’s first important to understand what causes muscle soreness. Sore muscles or muscle pain after physical activity (otherwise known as delayed onset muscle soreness) occurs when muscles are required to work harder or in a different way than they’re used to.  Delayed onset muscle soreness (DOMS) typically occurs within 24-48 hours after physical activity and can temporarily reduce both range of motion and muscle strength. 

It’s a common misconception that DOMS is a result of a buildup of lactic acid. Lactic acid is not involved in the process and lactic acid only lasts in your muscles 1-2 hours after physical activity. Instead, it’s believed that muscle soreness or pain after a workout or some other form of physical activity is caused when muscle fibres tear on a microscopic level to adapt to new work loads. The tears draw increased blood flow and inflammation to the area (sometimes even leading to mild swelling), which stimulates the pain receptors in the muscle tissue. 

What CBD Topicals Can Do

When CBD topicals are applied to the skin, they are absorbed and interact with the cannabinoid receptors in the skin. CBD is known for the calming and relaxing feelings it induces, but CBD has also been shown to reduce inflammation and pain. Extensive medical studies have found CBD to have anti-inflammatory properties. 

It’s believed that CBD binds itself to the G-protein receptors known as TRPV-1. The TRVP-1 receptors are involved in regulating pain and inflammation in the body. Scientists theorize that it is through this bind that CBD is able to help provide inflammation and pain relief.  

Being that muscle soreness and pain after physical activity are the result of inflammation, CBD could have a positive effect in reducing the pain or soreness you feel after strenuous activity. In fact, many professional athletes now swear by CBD topicals for pain relief. 

Soccer superstar Megan Rapinoe has stated that CBD topicals have been an integral part of her training and recovery program. Professional skateboarder Andy Macdonald has voiced praise for CBD for the pain he receives from skateboard injuries. MMA fighter Mickey Gall also echoed support for CBD as a pain reliever during training or after fights. From football to tennis and everything in between, an increasingly large number of athletes are turning to CBD for relief. 

What You Should Know Before Trying CBD

If you’re interested in giving CBD a shot to see if a topical could work for you and your lifestyle, there are a few things you should know first. 

First and foremost, it’s always recommended that you start with a small serving size first before ramping up portions. While topicals are localized and using too much isn’t as much of a concern, it’s still best to use topical products conservitavely. CBD affects everyone differently. Start with the lowest recommended serving size listed on the product and then gradually increase the amount until you feel the relief you desire in the target area. 

Like any substance consumed by the body, CBD can interact with other substances you’re consuming. It’s possible CBD may negatively interact with medications you’re currently taking. If you’re taking any medications, it’s best to consult with your doctor before trying CBD topicals. 

To responsibly purchase CBD products, you’ll want to make sure you’re purchasing from a reputable CBD store. Not all CBD products are created equal. Every company should have publicly available lab test results to back up the safety of their products. If you’re unable to find lab test results, you should contact the company and ask for them before purchasing. 

Once you’ve received your CBD topical, simply follow the use instructions printed on the product and enjoy!

About Green Wellness Life

Green Wellness Life specializes in selling research-backed complementary health products that are natural, holistic, and supportive. The staff at Green Wellness Life keeps a finger on the pulse of the latest research surrounding complementary products and works hard to keep readers and customers alike well informed.

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