
CBD: With or without food?
CBD and food, how does it work?
Taking CBD with food helps ensure better absorption. To understand why, we need to talk about metabolism and bioavailability.
First, bioavailability refers to the amount of any substance that enters the bloodstream and is capable of having an active effect on the body. In other words, it refers to the amount and speed with which CBD enters your body. The lower the bioavailability, the more of that substance you will need to consume.
First-pass metabolism refers to the set of reactions that take place in the digestive system so that CBD can be absorbed by the liver and circulate throughout the body.
Oral ingestion with food increases the bioavailability of CBD, increasing its absorption rate and optimizing its effects.
Scientific studies on CBD and food?
According to recent studies, consuming CBD with food is highly recommended to bypass the first-pass process.
The University of Minnesota conducted a study on patients prescribed CBD for seizure management. Researchers found that those who took CBD on an empty stomach had lower blood levels of the substance compared to those who consumed it with fatty foods.
It's important to know that fatty foods are more easily absorbed by the body. Furthermore, CBD is a hydrophobic compound, so it binds very easily to oil. Some scientists believe that the molecules in this substance bind to long-chain triglycerides, but nothing has been proven yet.
How long does CBD take to work?
It's important to know that there are many different ways to administer CBD. If you're not ingesting CBD, then food isn't required to increase bioavailability. For example, sublingual administration is also very fast and provides almost immediate effects .
If you decide to take CBD through the stomach, that is, by ingestion, be aware that the absorption rate will depend on gastric fullness. Generally, it takes about 30 to 60 minutes before the first effects are felt. Your stomach must first “digest” this substance before it enters the bloodstream.
Is it possible to consume CBD long-term?
CBD can be consumed with or without food for long periods of time as a dietary supplement. It can also be used to reduce distressing symptoms such as stress or anxiety .
According to research, CBD has no harmful side effects when consumed in low doses over the long term. Furthermore, it is a natural substance that does not cause addiction or any psychoactive effects.
It's important to note that CBD can interact with certain medications. If you have any medical conditions, consult your doctor before using it.
When is the best time to take CBD?
There's no right or wrong time to consume CBD; it all depends on your needs. For example, if you're trying to treat insomnia, it's best to take it an hour before bed.
Although CBD's bioavailability increases when consumed with food, it's perfectly safe to take on an empty stomach. However, be careful not to consume this substance after a heavy meal, as it may take longer to work.
It's important to note that some people report feeling the effects of CBD better when they consume it on an empty stomach. Again, this is a matter of preference, as everyone's body reacts differently. Feel free to experiment to find the time that works best for you.
What dose of CBD should I consume with food?
Whether with or without food, the dose of CBD to consume will largely depend on the reason you are taking it.
Each body's tolerance to CBD is different. To determine the best dose for you, it's strongly recommended to start with a low dose and gradually increase it until you notice an improvement in your symptoms.
If the goal of your CBD treatment is to reduce stress and anxiety, the best thing to do is to take a standard dose of 10 mg, up to 90 mg per day. There's no point in trying to consume more than 100 mg of CBD the first time, as this will only reduce the effectiveness of CBD in your body.
Consuming CBD with or without food in animals?
Pets like dogs and cats can definitely consume CBD if they suffer from certain medical conditions. According to several studies, this substance can reduce seizures inepileptic dogs and cats.
When it comes to consumption, you don't have many options for getting your pet to swallow CBD. The simplest technique is to add a few drops of CBD oil to your pet's food. In this case, it's not about bioavailability, but rather comfort. Your pet will refuse to consume CBD if it isn't "hidden" in food.
There are also ready-made CBD treats available. These can be a great option if you're unsure about dosing, as they contain low doses; you can gradually increase the number of treats.
What precautions should you take before consuming CBD?
It's important to note that CBD is not a substitute for medical treatment, whether for humans or animals. It can be used as a dietary supplement to relieve certain ailments such as chronic pain , stress, and anxiety. Don't hesitate to seek advice from a healthcare professional if you have any concerns before taking CBD.