If you think of yourself as a healthy and fit individual, you may wonder if CBD can even help you. It’s a fair question but the short answer: yes! While a healthy diet, exercise, a good night’s rest and a positive attitude go a long way, CBD can only help you take your health & wellness to the next level!  

     Let’s talk science. Cannabidiol, commonly referred to as CBD, is a compound found in the cannabis plant species (which is) known to have many benefits. The endocannabinoid system or ECS (just like our other bodily systems like the central nervous and digestive system) is a system of receptors found throughout the brain and body. The ECS regulates everything in our bodies from sleep, mood, memory, digestion, immune function, neural development, and metabolism. CBD interacts with the ECS receptors creating homeostasis or balance in the body. Even healthy individuals can be off balance due to stress, poor sleep or inflammation from workouts.

Here are 6 ways CBD can help you:

 

1. Stress & anxiety: In today’s ever changing and uncertain world, stress and anxiety are at an all time high. As a society, people are always looking for the next big thing. Cue the societal pressures! We need to focus more on being present and in the moment. CBD may boost signaling through serotonin receptors. What does this mean? SSRIs block re-absorption of serotonin in the brain. This helps the brain cells transmit more serotonin signals reducing anxiety and boosting your mood in some cases. In an animal study, researchers found that CBD may affect serotonin levels faster than SSRIs. Serotonin is known as the “feel good” chemical contributing to well-being and happiness. CBD may boost the availability of serotonin reducing our anxiety and depression!                                                                                                                                                                                         
2. Inflammation: Inflammation is part of the body’s immune response. It is the body’s way of signaling the immune system to repair tissue and defend itself against bacteria and viruses. Research suggests that CBD acts as an anti-inflammatory agent. Our body even produces endocannabinoids when immune cells are activated (Immune cells are activated when bacteria/viruses enter the body, or an injury occurs). Studies also show that CBD has powerful anti-inflammatory effects and can manipulate endocannabinoids helping to reduce inflammation.                                                                                                                                                                                      
3. Sleep: A lack of sleep is something most people shrug off but shouldn’t. Sleep is so crucial to a healthy mind & body. Countless adults toss and turn because they experience anxiety, pain, and stress. Cue insomnia. As mentioned above, CBD increases the availability of serotonin which has soothing, anti-anxiety effects that can help people sleep. Lower inflammation promotes sounder sleep! CBD can act as an alternative natural method to help calm anxious thoughts that often delay or interrupt natural sleep.                                                                                                                                                                                       
4. Skincare: CBD counteracts the damage done by free radicals (Substances that generate free radicals include: tobacco smoke, alcohol, fried foods, air pollutants). These free radicals have been linked to premature wrinkles and atypical pigmentation in the skin. CBD shows promise for way more than just wrinkles. It’s no surprise beauty and cosmetic companies now infuse our beauty routines with CBD. Using CBD both internally and externally can support the skin’s healthy activity.                                                                                                                                                                                      
5. Menstrual cramps: More and more women are reporting that CBD and THC products are the best tools they have for treating painful periods. CBD can reduce bloating and cramping  as it improves digestive functions and reduces inflammation and nausea. During PMS, hormonal imbalance is very common causing mood swings. You may feel sad or angry at the drop of a hat. Luckily, CBD can help adjust your emotional responses!                                                                                                                                                                                      
6. Energy: Studies has shown that CBD can boost energy levels by strengthening body cells that can make you feel sleepy or sluggish. It can also help reignite focus and mental clarity allowing you to think more clearly. Because CBD interacts with the receptors throughout the ECS, it can help influence any one of its many biological processes. As such, CBD can help give the body the energy boost it needs to function properly throughout the day.

CBD is also a natural source of essential vitamins and minerals like:

• B complex vitamins
• Magnesium
• Calcium
• Vitamin E
• Vitamin C

     Since CBD stimulates the endocannabinoid system it supports its efforts to keep your functions  at an optimal level. CBD benefits are not just for people with adverse health conditions. Even if you’re healthy, CBD can support your health and wellness.The balancing effects of CBD will help ensure your body is given what it needs for peak performance each day. Add CBD to your daily routine to better your health and wellness.

Stay healthy, Ergo Crew!

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Sources:

1. https://www.foriawellness.com/blogs/learn/how-cbd-oil-vape-helps-stress-anxiety
2. https://www.nytimes.com/interactive/2019/05/14/magazine/cbd-cannabis-cure.html
3. https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/cbd
4. https://www.talkspace.com/blog/is-cbd-oil-good-for-mental-health/