Medical experts and former NFL player Kyle Turley share insights on how CBD can be used for athlete’s pain relief when it comes to conditions such as cramps and muscle pain. However, there are also some concerns when it comes to professional athletes using CBD, even if it’s for pain alleviation.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in these blog posts is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The use of any information provided in these blog posts is solely at your own risk. The authors and the website do not recommend or endorse any specific products, treatments, or procedures mentioned. Reliance on any information in these blog posts is solely at your own discretion.

The popularity and demand for cannabidiol and CBD products have grown exponentially through the past number of years and for good reason. This already goes without saying that CBD oil has tons of health benefits. Apart from its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, this hemp-derived compound also acts as a great solution for relieving pain, anxiety, migraines, and a slew of other health concerns and issues. In fact, a study conducted in 2017 found that cannabidiol has significantly reduced the blood pressure of participants.

Given the numerous benefits of CBD, leveraging its effectiveness and potency for working out may yield great outcomes. Apart from enhancing a person’s recovery time, CBD oil also has the capacity to relieve sore muscles and body pain brought about by working out.

Cannabidiol and the Science Behind It

Cannabidiol, otherwise known as CBD, is one of the many (read: more than 100) chemical compounds found inside cannabis plants. Without the psychoactive properties of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), this compound is safe for consumption without users feeling like they are under the influence or feeling like they’re intoxicated with any negative side effects.

Instead, cannabidiol oil binds with the endocannabinoid system and its receptors found within the body, thus helping address pain and anxiety within the body.

CBD Oil and Workouts

If you are incorporating CBD products to fit in your active lifestyle and your workout sessions, you have to ensure that cannabidiol is legal in your state. Likewise, it’s advised that users consume a much larger or higher dose to get the full effects of CBD after working out to aid in the recovery of the body and its muscles.

Apart from consuming cannabidiol, athletes and other fitness enthusiasts who are keen on getting the benefits of the plant may also use topical ointments and creams to directly rub and address pain within their body. Its anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving effects can help soothe your sore muscles after the workout.

In addition to consuming after the workout, this compound can also work with your pre-workout routine. This cannabinoid can give you clarity of mind, reduce physical stress and boost your energy. When taken before the activity, you can expect not only to have improved energy levels but also enhanced focus and alertness to help you keep going. This is important especially as you may be dealing with heavy workout equipment.

Athletes and Cannabidiol

The World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) has recently revised its rules regarding cannabidiol. It is now approved for use even in competition. However, remember that WADA prohibits other cannabinoids such as natural and synthetics THC, as well as other compounds that replicate the effects of this psychoactive chemical.

Athletes, who often undergo intense training and workout routine, uses CBD products such as soft gels and topical creams to treat chronic pain. This applies to muscle pains experienced by athletes after performing in the field. In fact, some even use it as a replacement for ibuprofen as it is seen as a more natural and safer alternative.

Because of its stress- and anxiety-relieving properties, it is also used by athletes to minimize game-day stress. Such stress can negatively affect a player’s performance, and with the help of CBD, they can reduce the possibility of this happening.

Conclusion

Cannabidiol is known for its wide variety of medicinal effects. Individuals who workout can benefit from the benefits it has to offer, just like how professional athletes use this compound to their advantage. If you work out regularly and you are looking for ways to improve your experience, you should definitely look into consuming this chemical compound.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in these blog posts is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The use of any information provided in these blog posts is solely at your own risk. The authors and the website do not recommend or endorse any specific products, treatments, or procedures mentioned. Reliance on any information in these blog posts is solely at your own discretion.

The National Football League (NFL) and the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) have agreed to join forces in studying the probable use of marijuana as a pain management tool for players. This development could start a possible shift in the league’s stance on an issue wherein many players have been outspoken.

The exploration will kick off following the formation of a Joint Management Committee by the league and union that will give recommendations on major medical issues specifically on cannabis. The study will also include a review of the policies and practices of the teams for using prescription medications by players.

In establishing the committees, the NFL and NFLPA would be tackling topics that were previously divisive for them. In recent years, some players have shown frustration over the continued punishment of players who were tested positive for marijuana, even for relieving pain, at a time when more states have decriminalized the substance.

But the NFL’s stance could possibly change as it gets serious about the pain management of its players, which may include allowing marijuana use. This development comes after the league has expressed its concern about prescription opioid use among its players to relieve the pain of their hard-hitting jobs.

Marijuana, including cannabidiol and any other form, is among the banned substances by the NFL. A player can get suspended from four to ten games, or even a full season or indefinitely if found positive in its random drug tests. Thus, even though teams play in states where medical and recreational cannabis is legal, any player detected with cannabis in their system can face suspension.

NFL’s rejection of cannabis was evident when the league and CBS decided not to run the cannabis operator Acreage Holdings’ ad during the Super Bowl this year.

The advertisement did not even mention its cannabis products or attempt selling cannabis-related products to consumers. It just showed some testimonials of people who had tried prescription medicines and had little success, only to find relief with medical cannabis.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in these blog posts is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The use of any information provided in these blog posts is solely at your own risk. The authors and the website do not recommend or endorse any specific products, treatments, or procedures mentioned. Reliance on any information in these blog posts is solely at your own discretion.

Some people can be quick to deny that eSports is indeed a sport. With policies addressing doping and performance enhancement, it is easy to see that professional gaming is considered and is operated just like traditional sports. If you love cannabis and you are a passionate gamer or even a professional one, you may be wondering about the legality of using cannabis in eSports. Here’s what you need to know:

Marijuana is included in the list of banned substances

One of the most important things you should know about combining cannabis and professional gaming is that this plant is one of the prohibited substances in the eSports League (ESL). This policy was implemented back in 2015 when it enacted its anti-doping policy. This policy follows a list released by the Nationale Anti-Doping Agentuer (NADA) and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Some of the substances prohibited in-competition include marijuana, amfetamine, and fentanyl among others.

To prevent stoned gamers from joining, the ESL decided to get players tested for any of these substances. So, if you are aspiring to become a professional gamer, keep in mind that you would not be able to consume any marijuana from the start of the completion day to the very end of the competition itself.

ESL is not the only one

Aside from eSports League, there are other tournaments and organizations that banned marijuana during the series. This includes the FIFA eWorld Cup, which pits players of the video game version of the football world cup against one another. The World Cyber Games (now known as the World Electronic Sports Games), a smaller version of the ESL, also bans this plant. Lastly, Major League Gaming announced its adoption of the ‘Fair Play’ concept, which is an anti-doping policy.

Professional gamers can still consume Cannabis, but…

For those of you wanting to be a pro esports player, you might have had your spirits dampened by this news. However, you can reawaken your dreams of joining the league because you do not have to absolutely abstain from your favorite plant. You can still light up as often as you would like as long as it is not within the competition period.

This is a good thing because some cannabinoids are known to enhance focus and cognitive functions. This can make you more alert and responsive to in-game elements, making you a better player. By intaking marijuana during your training sessions, you can improve your neurocognitive functions and who knows, you may even bring your improved senses to the competition itself without consuming marijuana.

Good news: Cannabidiol (CBD) is allowed in-competition!

If you think that being able to consume marijuana outside of the competition is good enough, you will be glad to know that you can even take CBD-infused products during the competition itself! According to the list released by the WADA, natural and synthetic cannabinoids are prohibited during the tournament. However, cannabidiol is an exception to this rule.

By consuming CBD-edibles and drinks during the day of the tournament, you can enjoy enhanced concentration, improved cognition, relaxed disposition and energized feeling. As these qualities are essential to performing excellently

Stoned Gamer Championship Series is a great alternative

For professional gamers who absolutely want to compete while loaded with marijuana, this tournament is for you. Started by Zeus Tipado as a website dealing with independent game development, Stoned Gamer makes professional gaming competitions available for cannabis enthusiasts. With this, Tipado aims to create a culture that takes joy in both gaming and cannabis.

Combining two of your most beloved things can give you the best feeling ever. By knowing these facts about cannabis and professional gaming, you can pursue your dreams and passions in an informed and smart manner!

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in these blog posts is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The use of any information provided in these blog posts is solely at your own risk. The authors and the website do not recommend or endorse any specific products, treatments, or procedures mentioned. Reliance on any information in these blog posts is solely at your own discretion.

Cannabidiol has become so popular and widespread. From being virtually unknown, it is now used not only by patients with severe conditions and for recreation but also by healthy people like sports enthusiasts and athletes. But while many of them are starting to take CBD oil during training, performance, and recovery, other sports buffs are still questioning the cannabinoid’s efficacy especially to people who are in top physical health.

Are CBD products, which get accolades for their medicinal properties, beneficial (and legal) for amateur and professional athletes? Read on to find out.

Medical marijuana has been legalized in 33 U.S. states for its capacity to treat a wide range of health issues from anxiety, Alzheimer’s disease, Parkinson’s disease, and many others. But its multiple benefits do not stop in the treatment of diseases. Cannabidiol can also boost the performance of professionals, including athletes.

To improve their chances of winning, athletes use a variety of supplements. Part of their regimen is taking stimulants, protein powders and other performance-enhancing substances to gain an advantage over their rivals. For these people, even a tiny edge over their competitors or previous records can lead to a win.

How CBD Help Athletes Bring Out Their A-Game

To win, athletes need to work out their muscles through regular, intense training and body conditioning. Here are some benefits CBD can provide for those who want to win the coveted medal.

• It lowers the release of stress hormones

Pro athletes and other people who often engage in sports put a lot of strain on both their body and mind. The stress coming from intense training can result in physical trauma to the point of injuring themselves. These people find joy and satisfaction in testing the limits of their body. As such they are prone to severe pain from muscle strains, cramps, and other injuries.

During strenuous training, the body including the organs responsible for producing hormones must work harder, which can trigger an overproduction of cortisol, the stress hormone. Having an abundance of cortisol in the blood can lead to tissue damage and can impact your health and performance.

CBD has a unique ability to reduce the production of cortisol during extreme training. A study by the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil found that this cannabinoid can limit the production of stress hormone.

• CBD has potent anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties.

Inflammation of muscles, especially during intense physical activities can result in pain. Apart from experiencing muscle aches, swelling in your body can have a severe impact on your performance. Cannabidiol has properties that can effectively relieve swelling.

A study by the National Institutes of Health’s Laboratory for Integrative Neuroscience found that CBD can suppress the body’s inflammatory response. With its anti-inflammatory property, some CBD oil advocates even say this cannabinoid may replace many prescription medicines that curb inflammation, including pain relievers.

Athletes are accustomed to pain, especially after an extreme workout. If not given relief, the excruciating pain can limit their physical activity to the point that they can no longer move their muscles. Having potent painkillers in their medical kits can make them regain their performance level. The best part of taking CBD is it is safe with a minimal side effect.

• Help resolve your gut problems

Athletes are prone to inflammation in the small and large intestines, which can cause extreme discomfort. In fact, this condition is among the leading reasons endurance athletes quit from racing.

While CBD will not solve these problems in the gut brought about by dehydration and overheating mainly to those engaged in endurance sports, it can help treat inflammation during or after physical training that can lead to gut problems. In these cases, CBD can be useful for lowering these symptoms.

• Enhance Sleep Quality

Getting quality sleep every night is highly beneficial for athletes to get the most from their training. Sleep allows their body to repair itself after enduring long hours of exhausting workouts. This activity also keeps their brain sharp, especially during competitions where even a small error can lead to a devastating loss.

Many athletes who take CBD report the cannabinoid helps them to fall asleep with ease and improve their sleep quality. After an action-packed day, many athletes find a hard time getting sufficient restful slumber in the evening. This condition has a lot to do with the overproduction of stress hormones. Stress is one of the deterrents for having deep shuteye. CBD can relieve stress by interacting with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), which is responsible for regulating the activities inside the body, including sleep. Hence, a regular dose of CBD can help physically active people get restful slumber every night.

• Helps in Muscle Recovery

The soreness athletes experience after a competition or hard gym session is a product of damage and inflammation of muscles. This inflammatory response is a process that the body does to heal itself. However, for athletes, the symptoms of this natural bodily process can impact their training. To counter the inflammatory response, many of them resort to taking measures that will hasten recovery. They often use methods like putting on ice and compression that divert blood away from the swollen area.

With CBD, they can get relief faster as the substance can interact with the ECS. Once CBD communicates with the endocannabinoid receptors, it can signal the brain to reduce the inflammation.

• Reduces Fear and Anxieties

Just like other people, athletes can suffer from periods of fear and anxiety, particularly during competition. Many of them fear of losing and getting injured.  Some of them even have social anxiety that can impair their performance when they are playing in sports arenas with large crowds. Failure to cope with these anxieties can lead to lackluster performance.

Many studies show CBD’s ability to reduce anxiety in people suffering from extreme social anxiety. Different research papers found that CBD oil can lower the intensity of fear memories, which are a challenging symptom of PTSD. Another study, this time on CBD oil effects on people with performance-based anxiety, finds that the administration of the cannabinoid decreased the anxiety of people before and during delivering a public speech. These findings can help athletes overcome their deepest fears that can hinder them from giving a remarkable performance during a competition.

• Helps in Weight Loss

Athletes also have a problem maintaining weight just like most people do. In some sports like boxing wherein maintaining a specific weight is crucial, they do different methods to keep the desired weight that can sometimes adversely affect their performance. Many of them increase or decrease their food intake. While this method allows them to reach their intended weight, it can negatively affect their performance during the match.

Taking a regular dose of cannabidiol can help them keep the right weight without the endangering their health. In 2016, Korean researchers found that cannabidiol has three ways of effecting fat browning. Aside from finding out that the substance activates the proteins and genes responsible for increasing the breakdown of fat, they also discovered that it could multiply mitochondria’s number and activity, which intensify the body’s capability to burn calories.

Legality of CBD for Athletes

After reading the many benefits of CBD for athletes, the next question is whether they can use the substance legally. The answer is a resounding yes. Since the early part of 2018, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) removed cannabidiol from its list of prohibited substances whether inside or outside of competition. Following WADA’s lead, the US Anti-Doping Agency (USADA) also did the same.

However, athletes should take note that the WADA only removes CBD from the list. THC and other cannabinoids are still prohibited. However, with their new guideline, WADA has set a urinary threshold of 150 nanograms per milliliter. Hence, these professionals should only buy pure CBD oil from reputable stores and dispensaries to make sure that it is free from even trace amounts of other cannabinoids.

How to Use CBD?

Cannabidiol products come in many forms. CBD can be taken orally through capsules, tinctures or oil. Athletes can also inhale it through a vape pen. They can also drink CBD-infused beverage such as sports drinks, tonics, and recovery drinks. For muscle ache and pain, they can also apply topical creams and lotions that contain CBD on the affected part.

CBD is also available in two varieties – full spectrum or isolate. Full spectrum cannabidiol products are composed of CBD and other compounds coming from the original plant, which may include traces of THC. Products infused with CBD isolate only contain CBD. CBD isolate and CBD produced from hemp are better choices, as they contain only minute amounts of THC that can put the career of athletes at risk.

Athletes need to take supplements and other legal substances that will improve their chances of winning. Many research and anecdotal evidence say CBD oil can give them a winning edge. However, they need to check the type and quality of the brand they are using because it may contain traces of THC that can endanger their careers.

Medical Disclaimer:

The information provided in these blog posts is intended for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The use of any information provided in these blog posts is solely at your own risk. The authors and the website do not recommend or endorse any specific products, treatments, or procedures mentioned. Reliance on any information in these blog posts is solely at your own discretion.