CBD, which stands for cannabidiol, is a term you’ve likely heard many times. It’s one of many cannabinoids found in the cannabis plant. You’ve probably already heard about the many benefits that CBD offers. While research is still limited, it has been found to help ease symptoms of conditions such as anxiety and epilepsy. Did you know that you may also be able to use CBD for diabetes? Here’s what you need to know.
What Is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition in which the body is unable to convert the glucose from food into energy for the cells in your body. For those with Type 1 diabetes, the body is unable to produce insulin, which is necessary to transfer the glucose to your cells. It’s often due to an autoimmune attack on the pancreas.
For those with Type 2 diabetes, the body still produces insulin, but it either doesn’t produce enough or the cells become insulin resistant. Approximately 95% of the 34 million Americans with diabetes have Type 2. Common risk factors include:
- Being overweight
- Age
- Family history
- Poor diet and lack of exercise
How Can CBD Help?
Conventional treatments for diabetes vary. Many people with Type 1 diabetes manually inject insulin or use an insulin pump. Individuals with Type 2 diabetes may take prescription medications such as Metformin to manage their blood sugar levels.
Recently, more and more people have been looking into alternative treatments, including CBD for diabetes. There aren’t many studies yet, but research is showing some promise in helping with diabetes symptoms.
Inflammation
Chronic inflammation related to obesity is one of the most prominent factors in the development of insulin resistance. Excessive amounts of fatty tissue reduce the efficiency of glucose metabolism, which leads to high blood sugar levels.
CBD is known to have anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it can help to reduce inflammation, lessening the damage done to the walls of the blood vessels.
Nerve Damage
Individuals with diabetes may suffer nerve damage, which can make it difficult to feel anything in their lower extremities. They may not be aware of injuries, which can lead to infections. CBD is a neuroprotectant, which can help to prevent this nerve damage.
Pain
Nerve damage may also lead to nerve pain, which can cause tingling or numbness in the hands, fingers, feet, and toes. In addition, you may develop sharp or burning pain. CBD is known for being able to help alleviate pain, which can help to reduce discomfort.
Can CBD Prevent Diabetes?
While CBD can help alleviate the symptoms of diabetes, it cannot prevent the disease. Some studies have found that endocannabinoid receptors in the islet cells of the pancreas may have a link to insulin production, but more research is needed. CBD may help to alleviate your symptoms, but it should not be used to replace your current treatment.
CBD may help to alleviate pain and inflammation related to diabetes. Many people with diabetes use it to improve their overall quality of life. Even so, it should not be used as a replacement for your current treatment. Speak with your healthcare provider if you are interested in using CBD to help with your diabetes symptoms and make sure you get your cannabis products from Buzz Delivery for a top level experience.