The use of cannabidiol or CBD has increased significantly in recent years, and it has become a popular alternative to treat various ailments. However, one of the most promising applications of CBD is in the field of sports and physical activity.
Why are athletes interested in CBD?
The main reason is that CBD has been shown to be effective in treating pain and inflammation, which may be especially relevant for high-performance athletes suffering from injury or chronic pain. In addition, CBD can also help improve sleep quality, which is crucial for good recovery and sports performance.
But, is the use of CBD for athletes legal?
In general, CBD is legal in many countries, including Spain, as long as it complies with the THC limits established by law (less than 0.2% in the EU and less than 1% in the US). However, it is important for athletes to ensure that the CBD products they consume do not contain detectable levels of THC, as their use could lead to a positive doping test result.
Is CBD considered doping in sport?
CBD is not included in the list of prohibited substances by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA). Therefore, it is not considered doping in sport. However, WADA does include THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the main psychoactive compound of the cannabis plant, on its list of prohibited substances.
It is important to note that some CBD products may contain small amounts of THC. For this reason, athletes using CBD products must ensure that they contain less than 0.3% THC to avoid failing a drug test.
Additionally, each sports organization may have its own policies and rules regarding the use of substances, including CBD. Therefore, it is important that athletes inform themselves of their organization's regulations and speak to a doctor before using any CBD product.
What kind of CBD products are best suited for athletes?
There are several formats for CBD consumption, such as oils, capsules, topicals, and even food products, but some are more recommended than others for athletes. CBD oils are a good option because they can be easily dosed and act quickly, while topical ones can be effective for treating localized pain in muscles or joints. On the other hand, edible CBD products can take longer to work, so they are not as useful in acute pain situations.
In summary , the use of CBD can be beneficial for athletes looking to treat pain, inflammation or improve their sleep quality. However, it is important for athletes to ensure that the CBD products they consume do not contain THC and adhere to doping regulations. CBD oils and topicals are some of the most recommended formats for athletes, although it is always advisable to consult a doctor or specialist before consuming CBD or any other supplement.