CBD (cannabidiol) is a molecule present in cannabis plants that is attracting growing interest, particularly because of its numerous therapeutic benefits. Its use now extends to professional sport and more specifically to American football. In this article, we will discuss some of the main benefits of CBD for elite athletes: treatment of pain, improvement of sleep and management of mood and stress.
An alternative to pain management
Chronic or acute pain is unfortunately common among elite athletes and can have a direct impact on their performance, recovery and quality of life. Pain management in these athletes is often based on the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which can cause serious side effects when consumed regularly and over a long period.
This is where the CBD, which appears to be a less harmful alternative to NSAIDs. Indeed, several studies have shown that CBD has anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties that can help relieve pain. These effects could be particularly interesting for contact athletes such as American football players, who are often exposed to violent and repeated shocks.
How does CBD work on pain?
The exact mechanism of action by which CBD alleviates pain is still poorly understood, but it is generally accepted that it involves interaction with receptors of the endocannabinoid system. This system consists of two main receptors: CB1 and CB2. The analgesic effects of CBD could be linked to a modulation of the signals sent by these receptors in the brain and spinal cord.
Dosage and administration of CBD for pain management in athletes
There are currently no specific dosage recommendations for CBD for pain relief in athletes. However, some specialists suggest starting with a low dose (a few milligrams per day) before possibly gradually increasing this dose until a satisfactory effect is obtained. The method of administration can also vary (sublingual oil, capsule, creams, etc.), and it is advisable to choose the one that best suits each individual.
Improve the quality of sleep for optimal recovery
For high-level athletes, a good night’s sleep is essential to allow the body to recover effectively following training or competition. Unfortunately, various stressors and the fast pace of a professional athlete’s life can sometimes make it difficult to get restful sleep.
THE CBD could play a beneficial role here by improving the quality of sleep in athletes. Several studies have highlighted the regulatory properties of CBD on sleep-wake cycles, as well as its potential to induce relaxation making it easier to fall asleep.
How to use CBD to promote sleep?
To benefit from the effects of CBD on sleep, it is recommended to take it approximately 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. The dose will depend on each individual, but a similar approach to that mentioned previously for pain management can be taken, starting with a low dose and gradually adjusting as necessary.
Manage mood and stress for better performance
Competitions, the constraints linked to the lifestyle of high-level athletes and the constant pressure to perform can often generate stress and negatively impact the mood of American football players. However, we know that a stable and positive psychological state is crucial to enable you to give your best during training and competitions.
CBD has recently gained attention for its potential effects on anxiety and depression. This molecule seems capable of positively regulating mood and reducing manifestations of stress, such as involuntary muscle spasms, which could have a direct impact on the performance of athletes.
Integrate CBD into a daily routine to optimize results
In order to obtain the benefits of CBD on mood management and stress relief, it may be interesting to integrate this molecule into your daily sports routine. Regular applications of CBD in different forms (oils, capsules, etc.) can help maintain a stable and calm state of mind in American football players, thus promoting better concentration and performance over time.
Conclusion: CBD, a potential ally for high-level athletes?
In summary, CBD presents several potential benefits for American football players in terms of its analgesic properties, its favorable impact on sleep and its ability to positively regulate mood and stress. Of course, each individual is different, and personal needs must be assessed in order to make optimal use of CBD in compliance with current legislation.
