CBD products have gained significant popularity in recent years, with numerous forms available, including oils, capsules, topicals, and gummies. Among these, CBD gummies have become a choice for many due to their convenience and enjoyable taste. However, CBD gummies have their fair share of questions and concerns, like any other health supplement. One common question that arises is whether CBD gummies can cause diarrhea.
This blog post will help you shed light on this myth’s truth.
What Is The CBD?
CBD, short for cannabidiol, is a natural compound derived from the hemp plant. It is known for its potential therapeutic properties and is widely used to promote well-being. CBD interacts with the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), crucial in maintaining various physiological processes such as mood, sleep, pain perception, and immune response.
Studies have suggested that CBD may help alleviate symptoms related to anxiety, chronic pain, insomnia, epilepsy, and more. Moreover, it is generally well-tolerated, with few reported side effects. However, misconceptions and concerns about CBD’s potential side effects, such as diarrhea, have emerged, primarily fueled by anecdotal evidence rather than scientific research. Despite these misconceptions, some people still believe that if you take too much CBD, you may end up with a case of the “runs” … literally!
Available Dosage Forms Of CBD
Supernatural Botanical offers a range of CBD products to suit different preferences, including:
1. CBD Gummies: These delicious gummies provide a convenient and discreet way to consume CBD.
2. CBD Oils: CBD oils offer versatility and can be taken orally or applied topically.
3. CBD Capsules: Capsules provide a precise and convenient way to incorporate CBD into your daily routine.
How CBD Regulates Gut Motility?
Gut motility refers to the movement of the digestive system, specifically the muscles that propel food through the gastrointestinal tract.
CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system, which maintains homeostasis in the body, including the digestive system.
CBD can potentially regulate gut motility through various mechanisms, such as reducing inflammation, modulating pain signals, and promoting balance in the endocannabinoid system.
However, individual responses to CBD can vary, and more research is needed to fully understand its effects on gut motility.
Factors Affecting Gut Motility
Several factors can influence a person’s gut motility, including:
Diet
The types of food you consume can impact gut motility. A diet high in fiber can promote healthy digestion and regular bowel movements, while a diet lacking in fiber may lead to constipation or diarrhea.
Stress
Stress and anxiety can disrupt the normal functioning of the digestive system, potentially leading to changes in gut motility.
Medications
Certain medications, such as opioids and some antibiotics, can affect gut motility and may cause gastrointestinal side effects.
Medical Conditions
Conditions like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), Crohn’s disease, and other gastrointestinal disorders can disrupt gut motility and cause digestive issues.
Identifying The Culprit: Carrier Oils
CBD products, including gummies, often contain carrier oils that help deliver the CBD extract into the body. Carrier oils are necessary because CBD is fat-soluble and not water-soluble. Common carrier oils in CBD gummies include hemp seed oil, MCT (medium-chain triglyceride), coconut, or olive oil. While carrier oils facilitate CBD absorption, they may also contribute to digestive issues, including diarrhea, if consumed excessively.
The Role Of MCT Oil In CBD Gummies
One carrier oil commonly used in CBD gummies is MCT oil. MCT oil is derived from coconuts and comprises medium-chain triglycerides that are easily digestible fats. MCT oil has potential health benefits, including:
- Improved cognitive function
- Increased energy levels
- Weight management.
Beyond the above-listed benefits, MCT oil has the ability to be tolerated by human GI. The tolerance criteria are not the same for every human body. Some individuals may experience gastrointestinal issues and altered bowel frequency (like diarrhea) on consuming large amounts or when their bodies are not familiarised with it due to some underlying cause. This can result in symptoms such including:
- Diarrhea
- Abdominal discomfort
- loose and tarry stools
However, it is important to note that these symptoms are rare and vary from person to person.
Potential Causes Of CBD Diarrhea
Considering that CBD gummies cause diarrhea, it is crucial to consider other factors that may contribute to digestive issues and altered bowel movement. CBD is unlikely to be the sole cause of diarrhea, as it does not have direct digestive effects. Instead, other components in the gummies, such as artificial sweeteners, flavors, or colorings, could be responsible for gastrointestinal distress.
Moreover, factors like dosage, sensitivity to certain ingredients, pre-existing gastrointestinal conditions, or interactions with medications can also play a role in diarrhea. It is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplement, including CBD gummies, into your daily dietary routine.
Prevention Of CBD- Induced Diarrhea
If you’re experiencing stomach pain or gastrointestinal issues like diarrhea after consuming CBD, consider the following recommendations:
1. Take CBD With Food: Consuming CBD gummies with a meal or snack can help mitigate stomach discomfort by slowing absorption.
2. Avoid Rapid Dose Increases: Gradually increase your CBD dosage to allow your body to adjust and minimize the likelihood of digestive disturbances.
3. Try Different CBD Dosage Forms: If gummies are causing stomach pain, you may want to explore other CBD products like oils, capsules, or CBD topicals to find one that suits you better.
4. Eat a Healthy Diet: Maintain a balanced and nutritious diet with fiber-rich foods to support healthy gut function.
5. Practise a Healthy Lifestyle: Managing stress levels through relaxation techniques, regular exercise, and adequate sleep can positively impact gut health.
Selection Of Right CBD Gummies
Choosing high-quality products from reputable manufacturers is essential to minimize the risk of experiencing gastrointestinal issues from CBD gummies. Look for CBD gummies that undergo third-party lab testing to ensure purity, potency, and the absence of harmful contaminants.
Additionally, carefully read the product labels to identify potential allergens or ingredients that may cause digestive problems. Opting for CBD gummies with natural sweeteners and flavors, as well as avoiding artificial additives, can be beneficial for individuals with sensitive stomachs.
Start with a low dosage and gradually increase it as needed to assess your tolerance and minimize the chances of gastrointestinal discomfort. It is important to remember that everyone’s body reacts differently, and finding the optimal dosage for your needs may require some experimentation.
Conclusion
CBD gummies are a convenient and enjoyable way to incorporate CBD into your wellness routine. While there have been claims that CBD gummies can cause diarrhea, the evidence supporting this assertion is limited. Carrier oils, such as MCT oil, can contribute to digestive issues, but diarrhea is rare and varies from person to person.
It is crucial to consider other factors such as individual sensitivity, dosage, pre-existing conditions, and the overall quality of the CBD gummies. By choosing high-quality products, starting with a low dosage, and being mindful of any potential allergens or artificial additives, you can enjoy the potential benefits of CBD gummies without experiencing unwanted gastrointestinal effects.
As with any health-related concern, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare professional to get comprehensive knowledge about CBD gummies or any other CBD product to stay on a safer end.
