I’ve mentioned before in this blog space that humans have active cannabinoid receptors in what’s called the endocannabinoid system. Located throughout the body and brain, they regulate appetite, mood, pain and memory. We strengthen these receptors when we introduce CBD-infused products, which help kick up our ability to process and use CBD for health benefits.
The endocannabinoid system does so much more than probably any of us have been aware. Here are some highlights of this system:
- The endocannabinoid system regulates numerous physiological processes, including intestinal function, glucose metabolism, and energy homeostasis.
- A dysregulated endocannabinoid system is implicated in metabolic and bowel and many other diseases.
- The cannabinoid CB1 receptor triggers suckling in the newborn, heightens sense of smell, boosts appetite, and helps the body recover after periods of stress.
- Polyunsaturated fatty acids are the chemical precursors to endocannabinoids and support neurological function, retinal development, and overall health by increasing CB1 receptor function.
- Located primarily in immune cells, fatty tissue, and the peripheral nervous system, CB2 receptors act as an anti-inflammatory and moderates appetite.
But, new studies have shown that despite these benefits, our diet can sabotage our ability to use them. Swiss scientist Jürg Gertsch, in a recent article titled “Cannabimimetic phytochemicals in the diet – an evolutionary link to food selection and metabolic stress adaptation?”, explained that our high-fat, high-sugar diets have stressed the endocannabinoid system. At the same time, other studies show that a low-fat diet also can inhibit the ability of the body’s endocannabinoid system to operate properly.
Clearly, CBD isn’t a magic bullet to cure all your ills, but when combined with a balanced physical system, meaning one that’s fed the right food, exercises regularly and gets enough sleep, it’s a wonderful adjunct to help when you’re not feeling or operating at your best. We owe it to ourselves to take care of our bodies. OK, maybe we don’t need to be ascetics about it, but there are reasons why moderation in all things is a mantra that has been purported by so many health professionals for so long.
To learn more about the system and how diet affects CBD copy these URLs into your browser, and prepare for enlightenment.
https://www.projectcbd.org/article/food-for-thought-diet-cannabis-and-the-endocannabinoid-system
http://herb.co/2016/11/29/low-fat-diet-endocannabinoid-system/