With emerging research and development in the weight loss industry, researchers are constantly assessing the role of various components in weight loss. It is no surprise that foods play an essential role in weight management. However, more than the foods, their elements are crucial to maintaining a healthy body weight and health.
Modern-day science has been studying the role of various components in weight loss. One such component is CBD or cannabidiol. Although CBD is popularly known for reducing stress and anxiety, reducing chronic pain, and improving sleep, modern research indicates there may be a connection between CBD oil and weight loss. However, data is still insufficient to prove its effect on weight loss conclusively. But, current research shows its role in weight loss.
This article briefly describes CBD’s role in weight loss and tells about things you should remember while choosing the best CBD oils.
CBD: An Overview
CBD is an effective compound in the cannabis plant. However, it does not generate a high or euphoric feeling like tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), another solvent in the cannabis plant. Instead, CBD targets your endocannabinoid system, which regulates bodily functions like movement, coordination, appetite, pain, moods, etc.
Research explains that it may stimulate the browning of fat cells, which is the fat accountable for producing heat by burning calories. To make CBD oil, a manufacturer will take out CBD from the cannabis plant and then dilute it with a carrier oil like MCT oil or hemp seed oil.
CBD Oils and Weight Loss: Research Data
The most significant use of CBD oils is to ease stress, minimise anxiety symptoms, and decrease pain. However, lately, several experts have also started recommending it as an aid for weight loss. As per several studies, CBD oils offer the following benefits to enhance the weight loss process.
A study on 72 individuals shows that CBD oil consumption reduced anxiety scores in 59.2% of individuals. At the same time, it improved sleep scores in 66.7% of individuals. Research suggests that improved sleep quality and anxiety reduction help treat obesity. Furthermore, another study suggests that CBD oils have considerable potential to treat multiple anxiety disorders.
A meta-analysis explains the role of CBD in minimising stress. The analysis further states that the treatments for anxiety and stress with CBD are the most evident. In addition, several studies show that stress management positively impacts your weight loss process.
Studies suggest that cannabis/cannabinoids exhibit analgesic activity, especially in neuropathic pain. Furthermore, a 2015 study analysed the association between chronic pain and weight loss. It shows that the two conditions are significant comorbidities, adversely impacting each other. However, the nature of the relationship is not likely to be direct, but many interacting factors appear to contribute. Weight loss for obese pain patients seems to be an essential aspect of overall pain rehabilitation. Hence, obese individuals need to combat chronic pain. That explains the indirect role of CBD oils in weight loss.
Animal studies show that CBD also boosts metabolism and reduces food intake by interacting with two receptors in your body- CB1 and CB2, which play a role in metabolism. Finally, research also suggests that CBD promotes the browning of fat cells, which is a fat responsible for burning calories and generating heat.
Significant Health Benefits of CBD Oil
Fights Anxiety and Depression
The most significant reason for the widespread use of CBD oil is its ability to calm your nerves. In addition, studies suggest that CBD has considerable potential as a treatment for multiple anxiety disorders, with the need for further study of chronic and therapeutic effects in relevant clinical populations.
Treats Certain Epilepsy Syndromes
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Epidiolex (a cannabidiol solution) oral solution to treat seizures associated with tuberous sclerosis complex (TSC) in patients one year of age and older. After several studies and trials, it is evident that CBD plays a role in treating epileptic seizures.
Reduces Post Traumatic Stress Disorders
PTSD is a neuropsychiatric condition that affects many individuals worldwide. Studies prove that administration of oral CBD in addition to routine psychiatric care was associated with PTSD symptom reduction in adults with PTSD. CBD also appeared to offer relief in a subset of patients who reported frequent nightmares as a symptom of their PTSD.
Relieves Chronic Pain
Chronic pain represents an emerging public health issue of massive proportions, particularly in industrialised nations’ ageing populations. Studies demonstrate the influential role of Sativex, a cannabis-derived spray, in relieving chronic pain. It was approved in Canada in 2005 to treat central neuropathic pain in multiple sclerosis and in 2007 for intractable cancer pain.
Other Benefits
Although the research studies on CBD’s benefits in the following health benefits are insufficient, several studies and research suggest that CBD oils may improve the following health issues:
- May Inhibit Arthritis Symptoms
- Can Ease Diabetes Complications
- Can Impart Neurologic Benefits
Other fascinating findings illustrated by the WHO include and derived from a 2011 study comprise:
- CBD influences tumour cells but has little impact on non-tumour cells in large amounts.
- Limited research indicates no effect on embryonic growth.
- CBD may result in hormonal changes, yet, these conclusions are unclear.
- CBD does not affect a vast range of biochemical and physiological parameters or substantially affect animal behaviour unless there is the administration of incredibly high doses. It includes more than one hundred and fifty mg/kg iv as an acute dose or over thirty mg/kg orally every day for ninety days.
- CBD may correlate with drug interactions, but this is not yet obvious.
Additionally, CBD is one of the only materials considered by the WHO to have no significant side effects or danger of dependency. However, with so many variables to contemplate about safety and dosage, it’s always wise to take advice from a doctor before planning weight loss aids or supplements, beginning a weight loss procedure, or including CBD oils.
Two Ways to Consume CBD Oils
Sublingually: Many brands approve that you use the included dropper to take the CBD oil under your tongue and hold it there for up to 1 minute before swallowing.
In Foods or Drinks: You can blend the oil into your beverage or food in food or drink. Some people choose this because you can not taste the oil as much. However, your body may not consume as much oil this way since it has to pass through your digestive tract.
Essential Tips to Choose CBD Oils for Weight Loss
Several manufacturers and brands manufacture and sell CBD oils. Almost all of them claim to have positive effects on your health. However, it is essential to remember that no one brand or type of CBD oil is best for weight loss. If you hope to use CBD oil to relieve stress, pain, or sleep issues that may allot to weight gain, emphasise selecting a quality oil overall.
Primarily, you should check the quality, safety, and transparency indicators. Then, choose featured products and brands for business and medical norms. In addition, you should also look for the following.
- The manufacturing company delivers proof of third-party testing by an ISO 17025-compliant lab.
- The manufacturing company publicises the source of its hemp.
- According to the certificate of analysis, the oil should include no more than 0.3% tetrahydrocannabinol (THC).
- The COA ratifies tests for heavy metals, pesticides, and moulds.
You can also consider various certifications before choosing the oil.
- The manufacturing process and company’s certifications
- Product potency
- Overall ingredients
- Indicators of brand status and user confidence like:
- Customer reviews
- Whether the company associates with an FDA warning letter
- Whether the company makes any baseless health claims
Other essential tips to look for are:
The Product is Third-party Assessed
Examine if the product has a COA from a laboratory that does not affiliate with your purchase brand. That way, you will be eligible to see whether the oil includes the amount of THC and CBD that the label says. You can also use the COA to ascertain that the product does not have pesticides, moulds, heavy metals, or other substances.
The Brand has Apparent Business Practices.
The company you are purchasing from should tell you where they take their hemp and how they make their commodities.
The Brand has a Good Reputation.
Check the FDA’s notification letter database, do online research for pending law cases and read consumer reviews before buying the product.
Those are the must-haves, but there are still a few other things to consider:
CBD Type
You can select CBD isolate, full-spectrum, or broad-spectrum products. Choose broad-spectrum or separate if you wish to drive clear of THC. Select full-spectrum if you are looking for additional benefits from the entourage effect.
Ingredients
Take a rapid scan of the ingredients list and conclude if it will work for you. For example, you’ll usually get a carrier oil and sometimes sweeteners and flavourings on the list.
Product Type
If you decide oil isn’t your best way of taking CBD, you can explore other alternatives like capsules topicals to use CBD oil.
Pros and Cons of CBD Oils
Pros:
- These oils have very few side effects.
- Since several brands are manufacturing them, they are easy to find.
- It is easy to incorporate these oils into the daily routine.
Cons:
- There is limited research on the effects of these oils.
- It won’t cause weight loss on its own. Some other factors like dose and exercise also play a crucial role.
- These oils can be costly.
CBD Oils: Recommended Dosage
Each product incorporated in the roundup appears with instructions for use. A helpful rule of thumb regarding dosage is to start less, trace how you feel, and reassess after one week. The quantity you take will depend on various factors, including:
- Your body weight
- Your goals
- The oil’s potency
- Your body chemistry
Experts and even the World Health Organization agree that CBD results in extreme lethargy, drowsiness, nausea, upset stomach, diarrhoea, and other unpleasant, disorienting side effects even in massive doses.
Safety and Side Effects
While the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that CBD usually is safe, there are still a few aspects to be familiar with before getting started.
CBD may result in mild side effects. These include fatigue, nausea, and changes in appetite and weight. In addition, taking CBD with a high-fat meal may enhance your absorption. However, some research indicates that taking CBD with diets high in fat can affect you to absorb more of it. Therefore, it can increase the risk of side effects.
Do not take CBD if you are nursing or pregnant. The FDA informs against consuming cannabis containing CBD while breastfeeding or pregnant. It may interact with some treatments. In addition, it comprises medications that carry a grapefruit indication. Be sure to consult with a doctor before taking CBD, mainly if you take any supplements or medications.
Conclusion
Modifying your diet and pushing your body is significant for losing weight. However, some over-the-counter commodities or treatments may boost the process. But they won’t work on their own or immediately. That said, CBD oil may help alleviate anxiety, pain, and sleep deprivation, which can impede weight loss.
According to research, some people reveal that CBD oil improves their appetite. But unfortunately, others find that it decreases their appetite. Since the research on CBD and weight loss is insufficient, consider taking advice from a doctor about how to take CBD oil on your weight loss journey.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q. How does CBD oil make you feel?
A. Unlike several natural remedies, CBD does impact what you will feel. When you consume CBD, it takes about 15-45 minutes to feel any impact. Remember that it is not like THC, where you feel high, but you think of an indirect effect of relaxation and calmness.
Q. Is CBD oil safe for seniors?
A. CBD is taken by many people, including older adults, to help alleviate pain and discomfort related to common illnesses. These include anxiety, depression, joint pain, and overall pain management. However, it is always best to consult a doctor before taking CBD.
Q. What happens if you swallow CBD oil?
A. If you swallow CBD, it transits through your digestive system, and your body automatically begins to break it down. You can slow down this procedure by blending the active ingredients with other elements such as fat or using an MCT oil carrier. However, the distinction is relatively tiny.
Q. What to expect when you start taking CBD?
A. CBD relieves pain, relaxes muscles, and even helps minimise anxiety. So you will likely feel extremely relaxed and even tired. You do not need to worry about that, as most users register that fatigue symptoms disperse once you pass the 2-3 week mark. But if they don’t, try reducing your dose or consult your doctor about this.
Q. Does CBD Make you poop?
A. Though it is frequently well-tolerated, CBD can result in side effects, such as diarrhoea, drowsiness, dry mouth, reduced appetite, and fatigue. It can also interact with other treatments you are taking, for example, blood thinners. Another reason for concern is the unreliability of the dosage and purity of CBD in products.
Q. Why do you hold CBD oil under your tongue?
A. CBD oil requires it to be put under the tongue and hold for at least 60 seconds to allow enough time for the molecules to dissolve across the epithelial cells. Some early research implies that utilising a cannabidiol spray under the tongue might improve muscle mobility and pain tightness. However, it does not work on muscle tiredness, bladder control, spasms, or well-being and quality of life in patients with Multiple Sclerosis.
Q. Can I rub CBD oil on my skin for pain?
A. Although there are numerous ways to try CBD, a topical maybe your fair bet if you wish to treat skin problems or relieve pains and aches. A CBD topical is any CBD-infused cream, lotion, or salve that you can apply to the skin. In addition, you should take them orally, and you can also use them on the skin.
Q. Do you need to refrigerate CBD oil?
A. Contrary to conventional belief, CBD oil does not require refrigeration. CBD commodities have an extended shelf life on their own. It is between one and two years, so they should not go wrong or lose efficacy as long as you fulfil the adequate storage conditions.
Q. Can I drink water after taking CBD oil?
A. CBD oil also arrives in capsule form, which can be a good option for people who want to retain a consistent amount of the solution in the body. However, when you consume CBD, it passes through the digestive area. It means you might have to wait upwards for 30 minutes before encountering any effect. It is lovely to drink water generally without affecting the absorption process.
Q. How many drops of CBD oil should I take?
A. To find out how many drops of CBD oil to take, you should generally start with the essential dosage, which is around 2-3 drops, three times a day. It is reasonable to increase the regularity of the number of drops if you do not feel any side effects in the coming days. If you have any medical condition, you should consult your doctor first.