How Does CBD Help Athletes?

What is CBD and How does it Benefit Mountain Athletes?

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a naturally occurring compound found in the resinous flowers of the cannabis plant, with a long history of medicinal use spanning millennia. Today, CBD's therapeutic potential is being rigorously examined and affirmed by scientists and medical professionals worldwide. It's a non-addictive, safe substance and is one of over a hundred "phytocannabinoids" specific to cannabis, endowing the plant with its remarkable therapeutic properties.

One notable distinction lies in CBD's relationship with another prominent phytocannabinoid: tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound responsible for the cannabis high. These are the two primary components of cannabis that have garnered significant scientific attention.

Both CBD and THC offer substantial therapeutic benefits. However, unlike THC, CBD does not induce a euphoric or intoxicating sensation. This is because CBD and THC interact differently with receptors in the brain and body.

For mountain athletes seeking recovery without impairment, CBD's therapeutic efficacy and non-intoxicating nature make it an appealing choice.

The Mechanism Behind CBD's Support for Mountain Athlete Recovery

CBD operates by engaging with a wide array of cannabinoid receptors that constitute the endocannabinoid system (ECS). Your ECS plays a pivotal role in managing stress levels, regulating sleep patterns, mitigating pain perception, moderating the body's inflammatory response, fine-tuning the immune system, balancing mood, and more. Essentially, it tirelessly works to maintain your body's equilibrium, ensuring optimal performance.

So, what does "homeostasis" mean? Homeostasis is the biological balance within your body's natural rhythms, akin to a state of equilibrium. Ongoing research is illuminating the intricate connection between homeostasis and physical, mental, and emotional well-being. When individuals incorporate CBD into their routines, they are actively supporting their ECS, thereby keeping their bodies finely tuned and in balance.

The Importance of Maintaining Homeostasis for Mountain Athletes

What occurs when you're out of balance, when homeostasis eludes you? In these instances, your body cannot function at its peak. Mountain athletes may experience undue stress, irritability, sleep disturbances, soreness, aches, pains, and more. In extreme cases, it could even lead to illness and cellular dysfunction. For mountain athletes who push their physical limits, the pursuit of homeostasis through CBD becomes essential in aiding their recovery and maintaining their peak performance.

Studies have shown that when your body is in a deficit, you are more prone to injury. A classic example of this is the "two more runs, skip the last" mentality - meaning people are more likely to get hurt at the tail-end of their mountain experience - due to the toll these activities take on their bodies and minds. To combat this, more and more athletes are becoming intentional about their recovery. Being able to speed up the recovery process means that athletes are able to better enjoy their subsequent days on the mountain. 

Every athlete is different and should consult their medical professional before formulating a recovery regimen. While different recovery methods work for different athletes, more and more folks are opting for a balance of strength training, stretching, adequate sleep, and the use of natural supplements that aid in body and mind recovery. This is where CBD comes into play for mountain athletes.

CBD may aid in the body's natural recovery process by reducing inflammation, easing sore muscles, promoting restful sleep, and reducing anxiety. At Big Day CBD, we offer different products for all types of mountain athletes to be intentional about their recovery for even better days on the mountain.