Continuing our series about the potential health benefits of CBD and hemp oil. In this article, we’ll take a look at how CBD hemp oil can help to improve and maintain gut health. 
First of All, What is CBD?
We all know how important networks like the nervous system or digestive system are to keeping our bodies functioning properly.
Although it is not as well known, the Endocannabinoid system (ECS) is no less important, linking every organ system together through enzymes and receptors and that produce regulatory compounds called endocannabinoids. These endocannabinoids regulate endocrine function, which affects a number of factors including stress levels, immune response, appetite control, and inflammation.
Cannabidiol, more commonly known as CBD, is extracted from cannabis or more commonly hemp plants. Unlike cannabis, CBD does not get you high. Instead, it works with the endocannabinoid system’s receptors, helping to modulate levels of hormones like serotonin and dopamine, as well as immune responses, meaning that it can have many potential benefits on various aspects of our health and wellbeing.
The ECS and Its Effects on Gut Health
On top of all of this, the Endocannabinoid system also plays an important role in keeping the gut functioning in a regular, healthy way. Although scientists are still studying exactly how the ECS interacts with digestive processes, studies have shown that it affects gut mobility, immune and inflammatory responses, and gastrointestinal absorption – all of which can have huge implications on our overall gut health.
How CBD Oil Can Help to Promote a Healthy Gut
Now that we know more about CBD and the endocannabinoid system, let’s take a look at how CBD hemp oil could help to ease the symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders and promote better all-around gut health.
CBD for Inflammatory Bowel Disease
One of the most well-documented applications of CBD oil is its use as an anti-inflammatory, which is one of the reasons it is so popular with athletes. While this can be great for recovery and healing after exercise, studies in mice have shown that it can also be useful in managing inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD) like Crohn’s and ulcerative colitis.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome and CBD Oil
Although irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) can have many different causes, scientific studies have shown a link between it and endocannabinoid deficiencies. Such deficiencies have also been linked with other serious bowel complaints such as celiac disease and colorectal cancer. By helping to regulate and promote endocannabinoid production and renewal, CBD could help to prevent and manage these potentially debilitating conditions.
CBD and the Importance of Gut Balance
The gastrointestinal tract has a complex system of nerves and muscles that stretch and contract to help food pass through: this is known as gut mobility. When something goes wrong with these nerves and muscles – for example, if they are out of synch or not as strong as they should be – this can lead to digestive problems like constipation, diarrhea, bloating, cramping, and changes in appetite. It can also lead to imbalances in intestinal bacteria.
The ECS plays a crucial role in maintaining gut mobility, and scientists believe that by helping to support the ECS, CBD hemp oil could also help to support the healthy functioning of the gastrointestinal muscles and prevent related complaints.
CBD for Stress and Anxiety
Anxiety and stress are hugely complex conditions with a whole range of related symptoms – including stomach problems such as pain, loss of appetite, diarrhea, excess acid, and more.
We have already discussed the use of CBD in managing stress and anxiety on this blog, but in short, CBD interacts with the endocannabinoid system to help regulate levels of hormones like cortisol (the “stress hormone”) and serotonin, which can help people to feel more relaxed. In turn, this can help to limit stress-related gastrointestinal discomfort.
How to Take CBD for Gut Health
When trying CBD oil for the first time, it is important to choose a high-quality product and start with a low dose, working your way up if you see positive results. All PurePower products contain pristine hemp oil and come in easy-to-dose formats, whether as a pump, tincture, or a capsule, so you can have peace of mind knowing exactly how much you are taking. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
