The Use Of CBD In Sports And The Stance Of Governing Bodies On Testing Of Cannabinoids

CBD Oil for Sports

Utilizing the non-intoxicating properties and array of applications has caught the attention of athletes at all levels. The versatility of CBD allows athletes to gain an edge on the competition by using the cannabinoid in various ways. CBD oil for sports is the latest way cannabis/hemp products have transcended into mainstream culture. From weekend warriors to the most elite athletes on the planet, CBD is reportedly helping them focus, reduce the anxiety/stress from competition, and recover faster.

CBD use in amateur sports can be done without any precautions. However, professional athletes still have to be careful not to trigger a positive drug test for THC, the cannabinoid that creates the high associated with marijuana.

Many CBD products contain an assortment of cannabis compounds. Full-spectrum CBD products contain THC and other cannabinoids that can create trouble for athletes competing at the highest levels. The CBD for athletes should be closely monitored to avoid violating the rules set in place of regulator boards such as The WADA.

The World Anti-Doping Agency’s Position on CBD for Athletes

According to the WADA, ‘All-natural and synthetic cannabinoids are prohibited except for cannabidiol (CBD). Cannabis, hashish, and marijuana are prohibited. Products, including foods and drinks containing cannabinoids, are also prohibited. All synthetic cannabinoids that mimic the effects of THC are prohibited.’

Athletes competing in events monitored by The WADA must be 100% sure they are not in violation by meticulously checking lab results provided by a 3rd party lab. Both full-spectrum and broad-spectrum products have the potential of triggering a positive test for THC and other cannabinoids other than CBD. While cannabinoids like CBG, CBN, and CBG aren’t psychoactive, the WADA has drawn a hard line regarding ‘minor’ cannabinoids.

For now, athletes competing on the world stage should avoid THC and other cannabinoids. However, public opinion about THC is shifting. The NBA and UFC have recently changed their doping policies to focus on performance-enhancing drugs, reeling back their bans on THC and cannabis compounds.  

What is Isolate CBD Oil?

Isolate CBD oil contains pure CBD and carrier oil. Most companies use seed or MCT oil to create their products. Pure CBD is completely separated from all other compounds in the original hemp flowers.

Most isolate CBD users are concerned about passing a drug test or have an intolerance for THC. Jobs operating heavy machinery or in the transportation industry subject employees to rigorous drug testing. Even though the amount of THC and other cannabinoids in full and broad-spectrum products is minuscule, consistent dosing can trigger a failed test.

Athletes are also attracted to isolate CBD products because they can rest assured that their products don’t contain any other cannabinoids other than CBD. They still should check lab potency tests to ensure their products won’t get them suspended or penalised. 

Using CBD Oil for Sports

CBD’s influence on the endocannabinoid system opens the opportunity to be used in a number of situations favourable to athletes. Most people associate the physically demanding aspect of sport with using CBD products. CBD does show potential in reducing inflammation and assisting sore muscles and joints but can also be used to help the athlete mentally.

Taking CBD regularly is believed to reduce stress. Competing on a high level induces tremendous levels of stress, especially in individual sports. CBD oil for sports could be used to keep the athlete mentally and physically balanced to gain an edge on the competition.

Take a Holistic Approach to Sports Medicine with CBD

CBD for athletes fits perfectly into the modern philosophy of sports medicine. Athletes are paying more attention to their mental health than ever before. Whether competing in local recreational leagues or professionally, using CBD for sports can help athletes beyond treating minor injuries. 

 

Sources: 

  1. https://www.wada-ama.org/en/questions-answers/cannabinoid
  2. https://theathletic.com/news/ufc-fighters-marijuana/QjQxymVGHw5y

 

Please note that this article was written by a 3rd-party author who is a specialist on the topic of CBD, hemp and cannabis.  Any information or recommendations contained within this article, are independent to the opinion of RUDERALEX® CBD and our employees.  We make no claims for any of our products, please read our disclaimer for additional information.