Does CBD Oil Lower Blood Sugar Levels?
The Latest Research Surrounding CBD Oil And Diabetes
To answer the question, does CBD oil lower blood sugar levels we must first point out that, although classified as a novel dietary ingredient, CBD oil has not been assigned specific uses by the FSA or any other relevant government agency. At this time, we cannot speak on cannabidiol’s potential to influence any disorder.
However, we can dive into the endocannabinoid system’s potential to regulate the biomarkers (physiological signs) associated with high blood sugar and diabetes.
The Endocannabinoid System
While we can’t recommend the best CBD oil for diabetes type 1 or 2, we can look at the science behind the fascinating endocannabinoid system and to whether CBD oil research may indicate whether or not CBD oil can lower blood sugar levels.
The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a network of cellular receptors and chemical signalling compounds. These components can be found in just about every tissue of the body.?
As the name implies, the endocannabinoid system is directly connected to plant cannabinoids, such as cannabidiol. These plant compounds fit like a key in the endocannabinoid system’s locks, allowing a cascade of physiological impacts to occur in the body and mind.
The endocannabinoid system has far-reaching capabilities, as it works closely with the immune system, the cardiovascular networks, the nervous system, the vanilloid pain network, and more.
When well cared for, the endocannabinoid system can provide the following:
- Anti-Oxidation
- Anti-inflammation
- Blood Sugar Regulation/Lowered Insulin Resistance
- Blood Pressure Regulation
- Triglyceride, LDL and HDL Cholesterol Regulation
Please understand that caring for the endocannabinoid system is a multifaceted process. Regulating our exposure to toxins, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising, and leveraging natural supplements are all crucial components in getting the most out of this vital network.
Let’s take a look at these benefits one by one. In particular, we will focus on their role in diabetic care and blood sugar maintenance.
Anti-Oxidation
Oxidative damage occurs along with diabetes. As this oxidative damage degrades the performance of our mitochondria and microvascular/cardiovascular systems, the diabetic condition in question will worsen over time.
Fortunately, the endocannabinoid system can remedy long term cases of oxidative stress. The balanced activation of our two central cannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2, will provide an invaluable anti-oxidative boost.
Anti-Inflammation
Diabetes is an inflammatory condition, meaning that it is always accompanied by inflammation. This chronic, inflamed state impacts a variety of organs, tissues, and cellular networks.
The ECS is notorious for its ability to manage inflammation. The addition of the endocannabinoid’s anti-oxidative power to our daily life can quickly magnify our holistic wellbeing.
Blood Sugar Regulation/Insulin Resistance
Elevated blood sugar, known as hyperglycaemia, occurs when sugar levels in the blood reach approx 140mg/dl. High blood sugar almost always happens after a degree of insulin resistance has impacted our body’s cells.
Our human endocannabinoid system can help reduce this insulin resistance. With lowered insulin resistance, our body’s cells will receive vital communication, allowing them to draw the sugar from the blood, leveraging it as fuel.
Blood Pressure Regulation
In many cases, diabetic patients also experience high blood pressure. While the physiological reason for this is unknown, it is believed that the consumption of fat, excessive sodium, and the impacts of a lack of exercise and long-term inflammation will help both of these conditions develop simultaneously.
Once again, the endocannabinoid network can step in and have a huge impact here. The ECS leverages two major signalling compounds AEA and 2-AG. AEA, or anandamide, helps to promote hypotension (the reduction of blood pressure).
So, does CBD oil lower blood pressure? Cannabidiol can inhibit the FAAH enzyme, found in many animal life species, and indeed, most mammals. When FAAH is inhibited, it allows AEA levels to rise. However, more research is warranted before we can conclusively state if CBD directly impacts blood pressure.
Triglyceride, LDL and HDL Cholesterol Regulation
When a person is experiencing diabetic symptoms, they often have elevated triglyceride levels and less HDL cholesterol (the “good” cholesterol). LDL cholesterol levels are not always modified by diabetic progression, but the lifestyle choices associated with this disorder are very likely to raise LDL concentrations to an unhealthy level.
The endocannabinoid system is pivotal in the management of HDL, triglyceride, and LDL levels. By supplying our body with healthy omega fats, valuable supplements, and regular exercise, important endocannabinoid activity can begin to rise. This activity helps to re-balance the levels of these lip-based biomarkers.
Are There Any Risks of Taking CBD While Experiencing High Blood Sugar or Diabetes?
We always recommend our customers to speak to a medical professional before introducing CBD to their routine. This is particularly important when someone is experiencing medically significant symptoms. Suppose you have already spoken to a doctor and are taking prescription medications. In that case, it becomes even more vital to talk to a health care professional before introducing herbal supplements of any kind.
The interaction of CBD with other medications is the biggest concern one would have in this instance. The FSA has recommended that healthy adults can enjoy up to 70mg of CBD each day, and these amounts may or may not be approved by your attending physician.
For more information regarding CBD interactions, cannabidiol news, and the latest hemp research, be sure to check out our educational content. Please browse our extensive catalogue, and select the best product(s) to suit your needs. You won’t beat the value that our premium, naturally sourced cannabidiol, will provide.
