CBD has gained a lot of attention for its potential benefits, but like anything you put into your body, it’s worth asking about possible side effects. One question I’ve come across is whether CBD can cause constipation. Let’s dive into this topic and see what’s really going on.
Key Takeaways
- CBD doesn’t directly cause constipation, but individual reactions can vary.
- Ingredients like carrier oils or additives may contribute to digestive changes.
- Staying hydrated and mindful of your CBD routine can help prevent discomfort.
CBD and Your Digestive System
CBD works with the endocannabinoid system (ECS) in the body, a biological system of receptors that impacts a variety of processes including the mood, sleep, immune response and – you guessed it – gut health. The ECS has a significant contribution to the regulation of body homeostasis.
CBD, though safe and does not produce any psychoactive effects, has a confounding effect on the gastrointestinal system. There is very little that bothers most users about how CBD affects their digestion, but there are some minor shifts in some.
CBD in itself can’t be said to cause constipation as a side effect of its use. However, its interaction with the ECS can either cause a delay or hasten the digestion process depending on your body response. It is for this reason that while some people comment that their bowel movement has become more regular others complain of bloated feelings or slightly upset stomachs.
Why Constipation Might Be Linked to CBD:
Now let’s try to understand why CBD might be associated with constipation in your particular case – it can be owing to the CBD product you have chosen or your lifestyle. Here’s what to consider:
1. The Role of Carrier Oils
Tinctures and CBD oils are usually blended with carrier oils such as MCT, coconut, or hemp seed oil. These oils are actually quite harmless but they do not suit everyone. This is particularly true with some of the oils as a few of the users have reported that when they take large quantities of the oil, they experience stomach discomfort and slow digestion.
2. Dehydration Can Be a Factor
CBD itself does not cause dehydration but coupled with the fact that many people forget to drink water when they introduce a new supplement into their system. Lack of water is one of the primary reasons that lead to constipation, which is why you should drink water when starting with CBD.
3. Gummies and Additives
CBD gummies are well-known, but their components can sometimes cause digestive shifts. But the issue is that the sugars, artificial flavorings, or even preservatives in gummies can impact your gut health. If you are doing so, then it is high time to read the list of ingredients of the selected product.
4. Dosing and Personal Sensitivity
At other times, it is just a matter of dosage – how much CBD is in the product you are using? Larger doses can affect digestion more than smaller ones, depending on whether you are still tolerating it. Different people have different systems, and although one person may feel perfectly okay with a higher dose, another person may feel a little run down.
5. Lifestyle Factors
Consider how much of the CBD product you’re using and how you’re using it in your everyday life. If you are using it to unwind, you might be winding your body down too—less walking, less running around. Sitting for long periods contributes to the poor working of the bowels, and hence, constipation.
How to Prevent Constipation When Taking CBD
Fortunately, there are ways to minimize the risk of constipation when using CBD. Let’s break it down:
1. Select the Best Quality CBD Products
Different CBD products are not of the same quality. Look for those made by reputable companies with third-party testing to ensure purity and quality. Do not use products which have fillers, low-grade oils or artificial additives that are likely to cause upset tummy.
2. Stay Hydrated
It may come off as obvious, but staying hydrated is the best thing anyone can do for themselves. CBD can sometimes lead to constipation, so drink water to ensure your digestive system runs as it should if you’re new to CBD.
3. Start With a Low Dose
If you are a beginner, then you need to be careful when taking CBD products. Take the initial dose as small as possible and then take the subsequent doses slowly. This way your body gets used to the supplement and it reduces the probability of you experiencing any unpleasant side effects such as stomach upsets.
4. Pay Attention to Your Diet
To combat any deceleration of digestion, a diet high in fiber is recommended. Go nuts, berries, carrots, brown rice, and beans—they’re all good for your body and will help keep your system functioning optimally. Yogurt or other fermented foods should also be considered because they help maintain a healthy gut too.
5. Get Moving
One of the easiest ways of encouraging good digestion is to remain as active as possible. A 10-15 minute walk can be enough to set things right if you are in the CBD for calming purposes and find yourself not as active as you used to be.
6. Watch Out for Additives
If you are a gummies or edibles consumer, make sure to read the ingredients. Choose foods containing natural sugar and low levels of preservatives. The fewer the number of ingredients, the fewer chances that you will have stomach upsets.
Other potential side effects to be discussed
While CBD is generally well-tolerated, it’s good to be aware of other potential side effects. Some people report mild issues like dry mouth, drowsiness, or slight changes in appetite. Digestive issues such as bloating and constipation are rare but should be noted when beginning a new product.
If you have a chance to detect some constant problems, it is better to stop for a while and analyze your routine. Some of the things you should think about include the amount you took, the product you took and any other change you have made in your diet recently.
When to Seek Advice
Minor symptoms of gastrointestinal upset are unlikely to represent a problem but still, if you are struggling with constipation or other adverse reactions, it is better to talk to your doctor. They can assist in establishing if the problem is as a result of CBD or it is an issue of another nature.
It’s also important to know that CBD may have an effect on medications, so if you are on any medication it is always advisable to consult your doctor before introducing a new supplement into your system.
The Bottom Line
So, does CBD cause constipation? The answer isn’t as clear as one might think, a simple yes or no. CBD isn’t a direct cause of digestive issues, although carrier oils, additives, or your own personal regimen might lead to discomfort. The good news is that these problems usually can be resolved with slight changes.
Avoid purchasing low-quality products and always ensure you take plenty of water to reduce the chances of discomfort, take a balanced diet and ensure that you engage in some form of exercise. And, naturally, pay attention to your body! Thinking about giving CBD a go yourself? Discover our collection of high-quality CBD products I have in stock for you and select the one that meets your requirements.