Athletes should be mentally and physically fit. They use different dietary supplements for keeping them healthy and strong. A new compound that is now appearing in different health supplements for athletes is cannabidiol (CBD) as this hemp-derived compound is found to provide a large number of health benefits. Using CBD for athletes can be greatly helpful for them to maintain their health without causing severe side effects. Hence, CBD can be used as an alternative for different health supplements that result in many side effects.
CBD For Athletes
Even though CBD is not approved as a health supplement by the FDA or any other agencies, it is still used by a lot of people for maintaining their health. Different health benefits of CBD can be useful for athletes to improve their health.
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound, hence it is safe to use for athletes. It can be helpful for them to regulate their body functions and promote their mental and physical health. CBD has the ability to reduce stress, anxiety, depression, etc. which can help athletes to avoid issues that are caused by the mental pressure they are experiencing. This compound can also promote sleep and it can aid in maintaining a healthy body cycle.
Another benefit of CBD for athletes is its ability to relieve pain and inflammation. Athletes are always engaged in strenuous physical activities, hence it is possible for them to face different accidents. Even though there are different medications used for pain management, they can create severe side effects. But now, CBD can effectively relieve pain without causing many side effects and it can be greatly beneficial for athletes.
THC, which is another substance derived from the hemp plant can also relieve pain, but it can cause psychoactive effects in people. Therefore, it is not fit for athletes to use.
Side Effects Of CBD
CBD is not accounted for creating any severe side effects. But it can also cause certain problems in some people including diarrhea, fatigue, changes in appetite and weight, etc. Hence, it is better to avoid its use if you encounter such problems.
Is It Legal For Athletes To Use CBD?
World Anti-Doping Agency has approved the use of CBD. However, many major sports leagues still prohibit the use of this compound. But consuming CBD will not show a positive drug test if the CBD product you consume is pure. But the problem is that sometimes different CBD products may have the presence of other cannabinoids including THC which may result in a positive drug test. This problem can be avoided if you consume products that are made up of CBD isolates, which comprises of CBD only.