The unpleasant symptoms of a digestive upset can cause severe discomfort. However, several guidelines and tools can help manage Irritable bowel syndrome's unpleasant symptoms (IBS). Some research suggests that Cannabidiol (CBD) may be beneficial for this purpose as well.
What is IBS?
Let's start with the main reason that prompted us to write this article for you. We are talking about IBS. A functional disorder of the digestive system manifested in pain, flatulence, diarrhea, or, conversely, constipation. This condition can be affected not only by adults but also by children, but more often, the disease is diagnosed in people over 20 years old.
IBS can occur without abnormal or neoplastic processes, so what does it mean? By removing the leading cause of the irritated bowel, it can eliminate IBS. And this, you see, is excellent news for the majority!
IBS Statistics
IBS is a common problem, and estimated that 10 to 15% of the world's population has this syndrome, but these numbers can be much higher. Many people can endure such unpleasant symptoms for a long time and not seek a diagnosis, not suspecting that this is a severe problem that can become a chronic condition. According to statistics, 6 out of 10 patients have never sought professional help in this regard.
Is Untreated IBS Dangerous?
Irritable bowel syndrome is a serious problem that, if left untreated it can grow into chronic conditions such as:
- Gastritis, esophagitis, GEBR
- Gastroduodenal reflux
- Cholecystitis
- Pancreatitis
- Enterocolitis, spastic intestinal obstruction, hemorrhoids
Symptoms and Causes of IBS
Causes of IBS
The syndrome has several underlying causes. Some of these may correct with CBD intake. And the rest require a more serious approach to treatment.
Neurological: stress, depression, anxiety, insomnia.
Hereditary: IBS in parents can increase the likelihood of developing IBS in children.
Social: improper diet (fatty foods, lack of fiber, a lot of coffee), improper daily regimen, lack of physical activity (weak muscles of the anterior abdominal wall), chronic fatigue.
Biological: an imbalance in the intestinal bacterial flora - a lack of lactobacilli, intestinal infections.
Hormonal disorders in women
Symptoms of IBS
Experts identify three primary forms of this syndrome. The following symptoms characterize these forms:
IBS with a predominance of diarrhea.
IBS with constipation. It may also accompany pain in the distal intestine (the 6-8 cm section of the large intestine, including the descending portion of the transverse colon and rectum).
IBS with flatulence. Shortness of breath and tachycardia also occur here.
The most common symptoms also include:
- It may cause aching pains in the navel and along the colon, especially after eating.
- Diarrhea immediately after eating, more often in the morning and evening.
- Constipation
- Bloating
- Nausea, the feeling of rapid stomach fullness
- Insomnia
- General weakness
The Role of Endocannabinoid System For Irritable Bowel Syndrome
The famous Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is believed to be the conductive one that may links phytocannabinoids with the body. Potential functions of the Endocannabinoid System's may target managing the processes of appetite, sleep, pain, inflammation, metabolism, cell growth, and interaction with the immune system.
Lumir Hanis, 25 years ago, discovered the Endocannabinoid System. And researches are still continuing to learn about its capabilities and its effects on gut health!
May CBD interact with ECS? This biological system contains endocannabinoids - endogenous neurotransmitters that bind to cannabinoid receptors and cannabinoid receptors located throughout the human body, including the nervous system and the brain.
Endocannabinoids naturally produce in our body: these include anandamide and 2-Arachidonoylglycerol (2-AG).
But the lack of cannabinoids for the homeostasis system's full functioning can be replenished with the so-called "phytocannabinoids," that is, cannabinoids found in plants. One of the most popular and studied is the phytocannabinoid Cannabidiol (CBD), a non-psychoactive component of the cannabis plant.
Can CBD Hemp Oil Help IBS?
A healthy diet, living a healthy lifestyle, and relieving stress can go a long way in treating IBS, but it can be overwhelming for some people. In this case, you can use additional methods,like CBD infused products.
We mentioned above how the body's Endocannabinoid System works. Since cannabinoid receptors are found throughout our body, including the digestive system, the consumption of phytocannabinoids such as CBD may be well tolerated.
You can read more about the properties of cannabinoids in preclinical experiments in several intestinal inflammation models here.
Also, a May 2020 review says CBD may also have potential benefits for conditions like IBS. You can read more from this report here.
The study also notes that phytocannabinoids (non-psychoactive) may count on their proven place in the food industry. However, more research is needed to validate the CBD's properties.
Which CBD Products May be Useful?
We can provide you with some guidelines. The best option is to consume Full Spectrum CBD oil due to its entourage effect. This effect achieves the interaction of several cannabinoids in one formula. Examples of Full Spectrum CBD include Multivitamin Oral Drops
In addition to the active ingredient CBD, these oral drops contain MCT oil derived from coconut oil.
However, potential side effects and individual intolerances may be present, as with any product.
Potential individual side effects include feeling tired, changes in weight or appetite, and diarrhea.
The next good choice for consumption сan be a CBD Gummies.
However, applying topical CBD products like creams and gels or lotions will not be helpful for IBS symptoms.
How to Choose CBD Dosage
The answer to the question on a daily dosage of CBD is individual. The effects of the exact dosage may appear differently in different people. Your CBD dosage level is influenced by your metabolic rate, body weight, health status, and lifestyle.
In any case, if you've never used CBD before, start at the lowest dosage, gradually increasing it as needed.
If you need more information on possible daily CBD dosage levels, you can always consult the Dosage Chart.
IBS is a factor that significantly affects a person's quality of life and mental well-being. If you have noticed this syndrome's symptoms, then it's time to think about getting rid of them. Do not tolerate inconvenience and pain, and do not hesitate to discuss your concerns with a specialist.
In any case, a doctor's consultation will be helpful. In conclusion, we can say that CBD and other phytocannabinoids' potential and properties continue to be explored, and the industry is very active. We stay tuned to provide you with the best CBD experience for your purposes.
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