As social acceptability and awareness of CBD's therapeutic advantages grow, it is being increasingly frequently utilized by the general population. Older ones are one group who may be left out of this movement, but they, too, may benefit. Let us check out some of the advantages of CBD for elders.
68 percent of persons aged 65 and over have two or more chronic issues, whereas 80 percent have just one. While some illnesses may only cause a little discomfort, others can be quite debilitating and have a big influence on the quality of your life.
There are several therapy alternatives available today to address these problems, but not everyone reacts to them. Furthermore, certain drugs may have unwanted side effects.
CBD can aid in reducing a variety of problems and symptoms. And, because it is non-intoxicating, non-addictive, and seldom causes severe side effects, many individuals are considering CBD as a life-changing alternative – CBD might be the solution you've been looking for.
We will go over all that you need to know about CBD and seniors in this post. We'll start by explaining what CBD is and how it interacts with your body, as well as if it's safe for seniors.
Then we'll go through eleven research-backed CBD health advantages for seniors. Finally, we'll provide you with all the information you need to determine your appropriate dosage.
What Is CBD?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is one of the thousands of cannabinoids found in cannabis plants' stalks, stems, leaves, and flowers.
CBD is non-addictive and non-intoxicating, which means it will not make you high. Tetrahydrocannabinol is the notorious chemical responsible for cannabis' psychoactive properties (THC).
How CBD Interacts with the Human Body
The mechanisms of CBD's interaction with the human body are yet unknown. What we know is that CBD binds to the endocannabinoid system's many receptors (ECS).
The ECS's objective is to keep the body in a state of homeostasis or balance. It is made up of a composite network of neurotransmitters and receptors that are found all over the body. Endocannabinoid receptors can be found in the following places:
- The peripheral and central nervous system, including in the bone marrow and brain
- The immune system
- The skin
- The reproductive organs
- The vascular system
- The digestive system, including the liver, gastrointestinal tract, and pancreas
- The respiratory system, including in the lungs
- The muscles
When CBD binds to these receptors, it improves the way the ECS functions, allowing your body to rebalance more quickly.
The most intriguing aspect of the process that distinguishes CBD from so many other treatment choices is that it will only address what is out of balance in each individual's body.
CBD has a significant impact on the following areas:
- Decreasing stress, aches, and promoting calmness;
- Improving cognitive function;
- Stabilizing the appetite and mood;
- Regulating processes like metabolism, immune response, memory, communication between cells, and sleep, among others.
Is CBD Safe for Seniors?
While some physicians feel CBD is safe for seniors, others argue that current evidence is insufficient yet nonetheless describe CBD as "potentially safe." There have been no reports of CBD overdoses.
Somnolence, reduced appetite, and impaired liver function are the most prevalent CBD adverse effects reported by older persons. Lightheadedness, dry mouth, and orthostatic hypotension are all potential adverse effects.
Researchers discovered that unfavorable side effects appear to be strongly linked to dose. You must know your ideal dose and regimen in order to achieve the desired results.
Also, keep in mind that starting with a large dose may not be the best idea. At the end of this post, we'll show you how to calculate your ideal dose.
Before you start using CBD, make an appointment with your doctor if you're on any other medications.
Furthermore, you should not abruptly stop using your existing medicine and replace it with CBD. It should be a step-by-step process.
Health Benefits of CBD for Seniors
CBD is still a new therapeutic option, and scientists are continually discovering new uses for it. CBD is most commonly used to reduce aches, promote calmness, and reduce stress.
This chemical can help persons of all ages, especially the elderly. Let's take a look at CBD's possible benefits for elders.
- Reduce Aches
Joint ache is a typical complaint among the elderly. Cannabidiol has proved to be effective in reducing aches, including joint aches and chronic aches.
CBD has also been found in studies to significantly reduce aches, enhance mobility, and improve the overall quality of life. It's also an excellent substitute for several prescription and over-the-counter drugs with a long list of undesirable side effects.
One research found that taking CBD orally reduced chronic aches, while another found that taking CBD orally on a regular basis improves mobility and sleep quality.
Furthermore, when you take CBD regularly for a long period, the way your brain perceives and responds to aches changes for the better.
- Reduce stress
Seniors who suffer from stress are more likely to have had it when they were children. However, major life changes, such as retirement, the death of a loved one, or new health issues, might exacerbate such emotional stress.
CBD contains antidepressant and anxiolytic properties that can help people feel calm in social circumstances.
Research of over 70 persons suffering from stress found that after one month of consuming CBD, over 80% of them saw a reduction in their stress.
- Improved Sleep
Because the neurons that regulate sleep start to die as we age, many seniors struggle to obtain a decent night's sleep.
The most serious issue is that as we age, we spend less time in deep and REM sleep, which are essential for restoring our physical and cognitive functions. Sleep deprivation also impairs the immune system and raises the risk of some health issues.
CBD combats some of the factors that contribute to poor sleep quality, such as discomfort and stress. However, it also promotes deep relaxation, which can aid in falling asleep quicker, stabilizing your sleep pattern, keeping you alert and fresh during the day.
- Bone and Joint Health
Many patients have reported "ache alleviation, sleep improvement, and/or stress reduction" after using CBD.
They also point out that the usefulness of CBD for reducing aches has only been proven in animal research.
Nonetheless, they pointed out that there is a lot of anecdotal evidence in favor of CBD. Many people claim to be sleeping better and experiencing less stress and aches.
CBD may be good for individuals with joint and chronic aches in principle because of its ache-relieving characteristics, but it is not a substitute for prescription medication, and you should always see your doctor before using it.
- Aid in Fighting Addiction
Seniors are at a higher possibility of becoming addicted owing to the prescription medications they are prescribed. Cannabidiol, on the other hand, is non-addictive and has a low tolerance level. It has been shown in studies to be effective in treating both heroin and cigarette addiction.
How Much CBD Should Seniors Take?
While some people take as little as 5 to 10 mg per day, others take as much as 1500 mg per day without experiencing any severe side effects. The most frequent CBD dosages range from 40 to 100 mg per day.
Regardless, each person's endocannabinoid system is unique. Always begin with a small dose and gradually increase it until you discover your ideal dosage.
Keeping track of how you feel as you try out different CBD administration routes and dosages will help you find your optimum CBD regimen.
The most typical dose varies between 40 and 100 mg when managing stress and ache - start low and see what works great for you.
Typically, a beginning dosage of 5 mg is advised. Seniors should start with 2.5 mg and work their way up in 2.5 mg increments because they are commonly on other medications.
Know that CBD has a faster effect on physical problems than it does on psychological ones like stress and sadness. Those increments can be done weekly or every two days, depending on what you're aiming for.
Is CBD Good for Seniors?
Sleep problems, stress, and chronic aches are just a few of the symptoms that CBD can manage and/or prevent.
CBD is a fantastic choice if you don't react to established therapies, want supplemental therapy, or wish to replace hazardous prescription medicines.
Just remember to start with a modest dose and work your way up, and always consult your doctor before using CBD, especially if you're on other drugs.
Finally, we'd like to point out that CBD may be utilized as a preventative as well as a therapeutic approach. You will undoubtedly profit from CBD if you conduct a thorough study before embarking on your CBD journey.