Navigating the world of CBD can be a complex journey, especially with the plethora of products and information available today. While CBD has been celebrated for its potential health benefits, it’s crucial to use it responsibly to ensure you’re reaping its benefits safely.
In this post, we’ll explore some key things to avoid when incorporating CBD into your wellness routine, helping you make informed decisions for your health.
What is CBD?
CBD is one of the most popular organic and herbal treatment options. It is estimated that by 2024 the CBD market will have a revenue of 20 billion. It reflects the incredible popularity of CBD and its products.
CBD is the second most popular compound of cannabis, only after THC, which is the primary psychoactive ingredient of cannabis. CBD is safe and offers numerous health benefits, like relief from discomfort and anxiousness.
How Does CBD Work?
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The functioning of CBD, or cannabidiol, is deeply intertwined with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS). This intricate cell-signaling system is instrumental in maintaining the body’s internal balance, or physiological homeostasis. The ECS has a hand in managing a broad spectrum of functions and processes, such as sleep, mood, appetite, memory, and even fertility.
The ECS consists of endocannabinoids, which are internally produced compounds bearing a resemblance to cannabinoids. It also includes receptors scattered throughout the nervous system and body, which these endocannabinoids and cannabinoids bind with. Additionally, the ECS involves enzymes that aid in breaking down both endocannabinoids and cannabinoids.
Should You Take CBD With Food?
Science has proven CBD is a safe compound with few insignificant side effects. If you want to maximize the effect of CBD tincture or oil, make sure never to take it on an empty stomach. It also reduces the bioavailability of the CBD product as much of the dose is lost in the metabolic activity.
For maximum bioavailability, go for CBD tinctures that can be used sublingually. It offers quicker results and maximum absorption.
What Foods to Avoid When Taking CBD?
When taking CBD, there aren’t necessarily specific foods that you must avoid. However, there are specific considerations to keep in mind:
High-Fat Foods
While high-fat foods can increase the absorption of CBD, they can also make it harder to dose since they can increase absorption variability. If you’re trying to maintain a precise dosage, you should avoid CBD with high-fat meals.
Grapefruit
Just like grapefruit can interact with certain medications, it can also interact with CBD. CBD and grapefruit inhibit a group of enzymes known as cytochrome P450, which helps metabolize certain drugs. If you’re taking medications that come with a “grapefruit warning,” you should also avoid CBD until you speak with your doctor.
Alcohol
While not a food, it’s worth noting that you should be cautious about mixing CBD and alcohol. Both substances can cause sedation and lowered inhibitions, and the effects may be stronger if the substances are mixed.
Caffeine
CBD can have calming effects, and it may alter the stimulant effects of caffeine. Avoid or limit your intake when using CBD if you’re sensitive to caffeine.
Can You Cook with CBD Oil?
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You can certainly cook with CBD oil. It’s a versatile product you can add to various dishes, from savory meals to sweet desserts. However, there are some considerations to consider when cooking with CBD oil, particularly regarding temperature.
CBD oil is sensitive to heat and light, and it can start to break down when exposed to high temperatures. It not only can affect the taste of the oil, making it more bitter, but it can also decrease its potency. Therefore, avoid cooking CBD oil at temperatures above 320°F (160°C).
Instead, consider using oil in recipes that don’t require high heat or add it at the end of the cooking process. For example, you could mix it into salad dressings, drizzle overcooked foods, or incorporate it into no-bake desserts. This way, you can ensure you get the full benefits of CBD oil without risking degradation from high heat.
Medicines To Avoid With CBD
There is a wide range of medicines that should be avoided with CBD. All those medicines that are to be metabolized by the CYP450 enzyme family should not be taken with CBD. The compound slows down their metabolism and increases their side effects.
Consult your doctor before incorporating any CBD-infused medication into your regimen. You should avoid taking it with the following medicines:
- Antidepressants
- Antipsychotics that can cause drowsiness, like benzodiazepines
- Antibiotics like erythromycin and clarithromycin
- Heart medications like calcium channel blockers
Supplements To Avoid With CBD
CBD is known for its mellow effect. It can cause slowed breathing and sleepiness. Trying to pair it with other supplements may elevate such results and cause too much drowsiness. Some such supplements are those with hops, melatonin, valerian, and l-tryptophan.
Who Should Stay Away From CBD?
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As mentioned earlier, CBD is relatively safe to use for all ages. Still, if you are already suffering from liver damage, it would be best to stay away from it as preliminary research has shown that it may induce liver damage by increasing the level of liver enzymes leading to liver toxicity.
Even though other medicines like non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs also cause liver inflammation, doctors always hold the medication and see if the enzyme level reduces.
How Not to Keep CBD Oil Good After Opening?
Maintaining the quality of your oil after opening requires careful storage. It is essential to avoid certain conditions that can degrade the oil and reduce its effectiveness.
Exposure to light is one of the main factors that can degrade CBD oil. Therefore, leaving your CBD oil in direct sunlight or under bright indoor lights is not advisable. Instead, store it in a dark place.
Similarly, CBD oil should not be kept in places with fluctuating temperatures or high heat, as heat can also degrade the oil. Avoid leaving your it near heat sources like stoves or in warm areas like your car on a hot day.
Air exposure can also affect oil quality. Once you’ve opened your CBD oil, it’s important not to leave the bottle open for extended periods. Always ensure the cap is tightly sealed after use.
Lastly, while CBD oil doesn’t need to be refrigerated if you prefer to store it in the fridge, avoid taking it in and out frequently as the constant change in temperature can affect the oil’s quality.
By avoiding these conditions, you can help maintain the quality and effectiveness of your oil after opening.
Bottom Line
When it comes to using CBD, you need to avoid certain pitfalls. Be clear of low-quality products, inadequate research, improper dosage, and disregarding professional advice. By being informed and mindful, you can maximize the potential benefits while minimizing any potential risks.
