The Skinny:
CBD products are not only more popular than ever, they are more available than at any time. In one form or another, 47 states and the District of Columbia now all provide legal access options. It is good news for the millions of users who swear by these products for recreational or medicinal purposes. However, CBD is still a younger person’s buy. Approximately 11 percent of Americans between 50 and 64 use it regularly, while only eight percent of those over 65 do so. In line with this, 23 percent of those between 45 and 59 have tried it at least once and 15 percent of those over 65. Shifts in demographic usage may change in the coming years, thanks not only to the graying of America but because CBD products promise some intriguing benefits for mature adults. Unfortunately, there may be drawbacks as well. WellWell offers up a breakdown of the potential plusses and minuses. Read on.
The Slate:
Four CBD Benefits
Aids Pain & Inflammation
CBD’s ability to offset pain and inflammation is akin to non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). The benefit is that CBD products do it without the harsher side effects of typical NSAIDs. CBD products activate a cannabinoid receptor system that triggers anti-inflammatory and pain reduction throughout the body.
Reduces Anxiety
CBD reduces anxiety and stress by engaging the endocannabinoid systems in the brain along with associated dopamine and hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenocortical systems.
Short Circuits Depression
Depression is often linked to low serotonin levels, but CBD’s ability to help defeat low moods doesn’t lie in its ability to rebuild these levels. Instead, CBD aids the brain in using serotonin more effectively through a complex interaction of systems that ultimately helps ward off depression. CBD’s worth extends beyond simply battling depression. It also does it much faster than traditional antidepressant drugs. CBD products also reportedly have few, if any, of the unpleasant side effects of antidepressants, such as insomnia, sexual dysfunction, mood swings and agitation.
Fights Sleep Disorders
CBD may be an answer for the millions of older Americans who get poor sleep. It is a relatively safe aid that doesn’t include the potentially harmful side effects mature adults experience from sleep medications. These drawbacks include confusion, disorientation and impaired coordination. CBD, admittedly, has some less severe side effects, such as dry mouth, fatigue and loss of appetite.
Four Drawbacks
Liver Damage
Large doses of CBD can harm a person’s liver, especially when combined with other medications such as leflunomide, lomitapide, mipomersen, pexidartinib, teriflunomide and valproate. Mature adults with liver problems should consult a doctor before taking CBD.
Excessive Sedation Risk
Mature adults have to guard against the risk of over-sedation because they metabolize drugs relatively slowly. CBD creates problems in this event because it can cause drowsiness and fatigue. Sedation problems can be severe if CBD is taken with other drugs, which is why consulting a doctor before taking any products is advised.
Dangers of Self-Medication
CBD may have many substantial benefits, but mature adults should not use it to self-medicate to battle chronic severe depression and mood swings. Such usage may be counterproductive and ultimately offset professional medical support. Not being upfront with doctors or psychiatrists on CBD usage increases the risk of CBD inappropriately mixing with prescribed antidepressant medications.
Potential CBD Side Effects
In some cases, CBD side effects are relatively mild. These products, however, can still generate unpleasant experiences, particularly for mature adults. These include dry mouth, abdominal pain, gastrointestinal upset and diarrhea, reduced appetite and fatigue. As noted, CBD may also interfere with other medications, such as antidepressants, sedatives, liver medication and blood thinners. It is always wise when taking CBD to start small, judge the impact and then increase dosage as warranted.
Eyes Up:
Are you a CBD user? Tell us why at info@wellwellusa.com.
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