The Trouble with CBD Gummies.
The Cannabis edibles have widely reported benefits, but there are issues.
By Deanna Mautz, BSN RN
October 9, 2022
When it comes to the route of administration of Cannabis, edibles are a favorite for many. From brownies to infused drinks, there are several different ways to infuse or blend CBD into products. One of the most popular: gummies.
The Trouble with CBD Gummies
CBD
CBD and the other cannabinoids in Cannabis offer a lot of the medical benefits. But CBD has become so popular because it is the cannabinoid in the plant without any of the psychoactive ingredients that people often don’t like or are afraid of. It is beginning to be viewed not as an illegal drug, but as a medicine offering pain relief, reduction in inflammation, anxiety control and much more.
What CBD Is Used For
CBD and those promoting it claim it can cure many things. And there is research proving its benefits. However, we are still in the beginning stages of learning just how great this cannabinoid from the Cannabis plant is. One thing we know is that CBD supports our bodies own Endocannabinoid System.
It directly activates the 5hT (serotonin receptor and acts as an atypical antipsychotic),
Binds directly to TRPV1 (Pain, inflammation, hypothalamus control).
It blocks GPR55 (a 3rd cannabinoid type receptor) which through a series of events, decreases the breakdown of bone, acts as an antiseptic, prevents cancer cells from growing and many other things.
CBD also changes the shape of the CB1, preventing THC from directly binding to it. (This is why balanced strains of cannabis give less anxiety and paranoia; the CB1 receptors are not overstimulated by THC.)
Which Products Are The Best?
Before we can answer which products are the best, we need to address the issues with gummies, and most Cannabis edibles on the market.
The biggest problem with CBD gummies and most edibles is that they are often ineffective or, in some cases, not as effective as advertised.
When it comes to buying CBD, you should look at dosage and ingredients.
The first ingredient is often sugar! You might be asking, “well, what is wrong with that?” If you are using the gummies to manage health symptoms then most likely you should be avoiding sugar. Sugar is inflammatory, which is a cause of most of the health symptoms that you are most likely trying to fight (think inflammation, cancer, insulin resistance, diabetes, heart disease…).
Next, look at the dosage per serving. Most gummies are too low in CBD per serving to provide any therapeutic benefits. I was speaking with someone yesterday who was using CBD gummies to help with sleep. When asked if she was getting any benefits she stated “none at all.”. Upon looking at the product that she thought was a good choice, she was taking 5 mg of CBD. At that dosage, she was really just spending good money on sugar, coloring, and flavoring.
BUYING TIPS
If you decide to stay with gummies or edibles as route of administration, please look deeply at what you buying, and ingesting.
Consumer Reports suggests looking for products made by companies in states that have legalized the recreational and medical use of cannabis “since they tend to have stricter standards.” If you live in a “CBD-only” state, choose CBD products made with American-grown hemp (from Colorado, Kentucky, Oregon, Montana, Vermont, Tennessee, etc.) rather than foreign sources.
Choose “full spectrum” CBD-rich oil extracts, not isolate, distillate or products labeled “pure CBD” or “no THC.” Full spectrum means it includes numerous cannabis compounds, including a small amount of THC. If THC is completely illegal in your state, opt for so-called “broad spectrum” CBD oil products that include other cannabis components but no THC.
Look for product labels that indicate the amount of CBD and THC per serving – not just the total cannabinoid content for the entire bottle.
Avoid poor quality CBD-infused gummies made with corn syrup and artificial colors.
Beware of multilevel marketing schemes and companies that seek to sign you up right away for recurring purchases.
Don’t be afraid to contact CBD companies directly and ask questions. And if you cannot reach them directly, try another brand.
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As a Nurse Consultant, I work with those with chronic medical conditions. These chronic conditions include heart disease, diabetes, lung disease, liver disease, kidney disease, obesity, neurological disease and those who are immunocompromised due to chronic infections, cancer or certain medications.
If you are dealing with chronic health conditions, our personalized wellness plan is designed to help you live your best life using holistic approaches such as Cannabis and Nutrition.
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