What The Research Says About CBD & Diabetes In 2020
September 16, 2020 2020-09-29 8:13What The Research Says About CBD & Diabetes In 2020
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What The Research Says About CBD & Diabetes In 2020
Managing diabetes symptoms requires many tools. What does research say about CBD and diabetes?
If you have diabetes, you probably use a variety of healing tools to help you manage your symptoms and maintain a state of good health. A varied and whole-foods diet, regular exercise, a good relationship with your doctor or healthcare professional, and prescription medicine are all keys to feeling well with diabetes. But what about CBD and diabetes? This increasingly popular supplement has been touted as a “miracle cure” for many. What does CBD research say? Is CBD safe for diabetes patients? Is it helpful? We’ll unpack the latest science and help you get to the facts so you can determine the answer to the question, “Should I take CBD for diabetes?”
What Is CBD Oil?
First of all — what is CBD oil? Like marijuana and medical marijuana, CBD is made from the hemp plant. But unlike marijuana, CBD won’t get you high. That’s because CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a naturally-occuring chemical compound that does not contain any psychoactive materials. THC, or tetrahydrocannabinol, is a simultaneously-occurring element in the plant. THC is the compound that promotes feelings of altered brain state or “being high.” You may encounter THC in marijuana, medical marijuana, and “edibles” such as gummy candy containing THC. But CBD won’t have the same effect. CBD promotes feelings of calm restfulness and may help reduce anxiety. In other words: CBD will help you chill out, but won’t make you see purple elephants dancing around the room.
CBD oil is made when cannabis plant solids are processed for human consumption. The act of pressing and compressing the leaves produces a thick, green-hued oil. This oil is then processed further so the THC compounds are removed. CBD oil can have a “grassy” or vegetable flavor, although some brands offer flavored CBD oil with calming and/or tasty additives, like lavender or berry. CBD oil and other CBD products are completely legal, and available over-the-counter, without a prescription.
CBD and Diabetes
What can you use CBD for? CBD oil is most commonly known as a proven method of anxiety management. It promotes feelings of calm and wellness in the body and mind. But can you use CBD oil for diabetes? There have not been many scientific studies that specifically address the use of CBD for diabetes — yet. However, there is plenty of science-backed research that shows CBD can help manage and ease the daily symptoms of diabetes.
Because CBD eases feelings of tension, patients may experience relief from the pain and inflammation that often occurs with diabetes. CBD is also proven to assist in sleep — a common problem for many, especially those dealing with diabetes. A better night’s sleep is beneficial for many reasons; it can even help you make better decisions around diet and exercise the next day.
There is no conclusive evidence that CBD is a safe or effective replacement for current diabetes prescription medications. But that does not mean it can’t have a place in your treatment plan.
How Is Broad Spectrum CBD Oil Used?
There’s one major consideration to full-spectrum CBD products: Because they contain all of the hemp plant’s phytochemicals, they do contain a small amount of THC. Although the CBD industry is not regulated, consumers can rest assured that the average THC quantity in full-spectrum CBD is under 0.3%. That amount is not enough to elicit feelings of being high, but it will show up in a drug test. Some CBD users with particularly sensitive systems do believe that they are affected by the trace amounts of psychoactive compounds.
Broad spectrum CBD contains almost all of the phytochemicals in the hemp plant, except for THC. Recall that full spectrum does not contain the full amount of THC, but does have trace levels. In the case of broad spectrum CBD, there is 0% THC. Those with THC sensitivity, or who live in areas where THC use is not legal will find broad spectrum products useful. It is most often ingested orally, and may assist in a variety of issues, including pain, sleeplessness, and anxiety.
CBD Research
What we do know about CBD research and diabetes? CBD is not federally-regulated (it’s classified as a supplement, rather than a drug). It’s also very new to the global healthcare market. Because of these two reasons, the scientific community is still in the exploratory phase of CBD research in all disciplines, including diabetes. Initial studies are being conducted on mice, but few have reached human trials. However, there is still much to learn about CBD and diabetes management.
Preliminary research shows a link between CBD and resistin. Resistin is a polypeptide (chain of amino acids) that has been linked to insulin resistance. This is a crucial part of diabetes management, as Type 2 diabetes has a strong connection to insulin resistance. The initial CBD studies in this area are encouraging — especially because CBD is widely available and an affordable option for many consumers.
Unfortunately, there is not yet scientific evidence that CBD has a positive effect on metabolic rates or glycemic index, two other important pieces of the diabetes treatment puzzle.
What does all of this mean for you and your diabetes management plan? CBD can absolutely be a part of your treatment. When considered as one tool of many, it can have a measurably positive effect on your overall health and wellness. Begin the conversation with a trusted pharmacist or doctor today about your diabetes and CBD.
If you need help determining which CBD product is best for you, talk to one of the trained pharmacists at Holt’s Pharmacy. We’re here to help you feel your best.
Pharmacist’s Choice Water Based CBD
Med7 full spectrum hemp oil
PROCANA CBD COMPLETE® SOFTGELS 20MGSERVING
CBD COMPLETE® Extra Strength
PROCANA CBD COMPLETE® DROPPERS 20MG/SERVING (30 ml)
CBD Droppers 20MG/Serving (30 mL)
This information is provided for educational purposes only. You should consult with your physician and/or pharmacist to discuss if a supplement will be helpful and safe for you. If you have any questions please contact our pharmacists at 435-249-0767 or email us at holtspharm@gmail.com
