Using Full Spectrum CBD Oil As An Exercise Supplement.

Posted by MONTKUSH on 23rd Mar 2022

If you're interested in the general science of full spectrum CBD, head over to our post about it and the differences between full spectrum CBD and other types. If you're an athlete or otherwise active person, then this one's all about you and how you can use CBD in your workout routine!

We'll cover full spectrum CBD's role in a workout, when to use it and which of MONTKUSH's CBD oils might suit you best. Let's get started!

What Full spectrum CBD Does for Athletes

CBD product sales are expected to reach almost $2 billion in 2022. With that growth comes innovation and deeper understanding.

In general, one of the biggest potential advantages of full spectrum CBD is the entourage effect — the way terpenes, organic compounds and minor cannabinoids work together for a holistically wholesome CBD experience.

Here's how the entourage effect works in a workout routine.

Full spectrum CBD May Replace OTC Anti-inflammatory Medications

Joint inflammation is an uncomfortable fact of life for athletes of all ages.

To overcome it, people rely on over-the-counter painkillers and anti-inflammatory medications called NSAIDs. They're great tools, but may come with life-threatening side effects when used too much.

According to a study published in the Annals of Long-term Care, sustained, long-term NSAID use may result in:

  • Ulcers
  • Kidney failure
  • Strokes
  • Heart failure
  • Hypertension
  • Internal bleeding

The risks vary between types of NSAID medications (common ones include ibuprofen and naproxen), but many work by blocking enzymes associated with inflammation. Because some of these enzymes are found in the stomach, long-term use may cause internal issues.

Alternatively, full spectrum CBD works on the body's endocannabinoid receptors to relieve inflammation. How exactly this occurs isn't fully understood. However, the Arthritis Foundation sees promise in CBD for chronic pain and inflammation and is currently conducting a survey to gather information and qualify CBD's benefits.

It Decreases Cortisol Levels

Cortisol is one of three stress hormones produced naturally in the body. When stressed, cortisol lets the body consume tissue so you can escape a fight-or-flight situation. Unfortunately, strenuous exercise can increase cortisol levels and inhibit muscle growth.

In a 2019 study, doses of CBD oil decreased cortisol levels in many patients. This is due to full spectrum CBD's relaxing, almost sedative properties. While that may do wonders for your mental health, it may also make intense workouts more productive.

It Promotes Better Rest and Recovery

Diet and routine and integral to workouts, but there's another factor that's equally as important: rest.

When you're fatigued, you lose endurance and concentration. You may also suffer from more physical consequences. In a study of almost 600 Brazilian athletes, lack of sleep was a predictor for losing competitions and increased anger and frustration.

Adenosine is a neurotransmitter that lets you know when your body is tired. It's released as you exercise and decreases when you sleep. If you're not tired following a workout, full spectrum CBD can increase adenosine levels and allow for a fuller night's rest. Your body will thank you in the morning.

Consider THC Content and Dosing

Before we end this section, we need to address an important topic: THC content. Though our CBD products typically contain less than .3% THC by weight, it may still be present. If you're in any kind of athletic organization, check regulations and seek advisement before adding CBD to your workout routine.

There's generally not enough THC in full spectrum CBD to have any psycho-active effects, but it's all down to your individual body chemistry. For more information on dosing, check out our CBD dosing guide.

When Should I Use CBD Oil in My Workout Routine?

Now that we've covered the whys and hows of full spectrum CBD in a workout routine, let's discuss the when. Fortunately, taking CBD oil before or after exercise can be effective for multiple reasons.

If used 30 minutes before a workout routine, you may reap the benefits of full spectrum CBD's calming and cortisol-reducing benefits. Also, if you experience muscle soreness or joint inflammation during or immediately after a workout, CBD may be an important pre-workout supplement.

Maybe working out makes you more sore the next day or at bed time. In that case, take CBD after workouts to harness its potentially relaxing and anti-inflammatory properties.

To determine when is best for you, listen to your body. Use a workout journal to figure out which days, workouts and issues hurt your exercise routine the most. Full-spectrum CBD is flexible, so take it when you feel like you need a boost.

Find a CBD Product Perfect for You

There are a wide range of full spectrum CBD products available today. While each has its own advantages, finding the right one can be intimidating. Fortunately, MONTKUSH has CBD products perfect for many active adults:

  • For joint pain, inflammation and muscle soreness, try our full spectrum CBD pain relief roll-on. With an immediate cooling sensation and no-mess application, it's a great gym bag companion.
  • To feel more relaxed and ready for an active day, try our Natural CBD oil. Packed with the terpenes and organic compounds of the entire hemp plant, it may help you manage pain, focus and get a full night's rest.
  • To moisturize and relieve joint inflammation at the same time, our CBD Body Dose oil may help. Bolstered by natural, soothing ingredients like coconut oil and turmeric, this body oil can be a refreshing addition to post-workout recovery.
  • If sleepless nights make you dread going to the gym, our Pure full spectrum CBD softgels are additive-free and easy to take any time of day.

While those full-spectrum CBD products might be the most advantageous for the active adult, MONTKUSH offers even more CBD oils, capsules, topical products and even gummies that could be your solution to the gym time blues. Our products are USDA-certified organic, chemical-free and made in the USA. Want to learn more? Check out the results from our third-party lab analysis.