Struggling to find restful sleep night after night? CBD gummies might be the solution you’ve been searching for. These tiny, chewy powerhouses combine the soothing benefits of cannabidiol with a flavor-packed experience.
In this blog, we’ll break down how CBD gummies interact with your body and why they can be a great go-to for achieving restful sleep.
What are CBD gummies?
CBD gummies are edible treats infused with cannabidiol (CBD), a natural compound extracted from the cannabis plant. They’re crafted by blending CBD extract with classic gummy candy ingredients like gelatin or pectin, sweeteners, and flavorings.
These gummies come in various flavors, shapes, and concentrations, offering a discrete and easy way to enjoy CBD. They’re pre-dosed, eliminating the guesswork often associated with other CBD products, and they provide a longer-lasting effect due to their slow digestion process. Whether you’re new to CBD or a seasoned user, gummies offer a simple and tasty introduction to its benefits.
How do CBD edibles work?
When consumed as an edible, CBD takes a different route through the body compared to methods like smoking or vaping. The journey begins in the digestive system, where the edible is broken down and the CBD is absorbed into the bloodstream.
From there, it moves to the liver, where much of the nutrient absorption occurs. Once absorbed, the CBD enters your bloodstream and begins interacting with your endocannabinoid system (ECS). While this metabolism can slightly reduce the bioavailability of CBD, it also allows the effects to develop more gradually and persist for longer periods.
This pathway explains why CBD edibles typically take 30 to 60 minutes to produce noticeable effects. Unlike inhalation methods, which deliver results almost instantly, edibles offer a slower onset but make up for it with their staying power. Their effects can last anywhere from four to six hours, providing extended relief or relaxation.
Are CBD gummies good for sleep?
Yes, CBD supports the ECS by improving sleep regulation. It makes it easier to drift off at night and wake up refreshed in the morning.
Most adults need at least seven hours of sleep each night. During this time, your body undergoes crucial restorative processes. The immune system repairs muscles and tissues, the brain clears out toxins, and nerve cells connect and reorganize to maintain optimal brain function.
Research suggests that CBD gummies for sleep work by interacting with the body’s ECS, a complex network that regulates various functions including pain, mood, and sleep cycles. The ECS helps maintain balance in the body and interacts with parts of the brain such as the hypothalamus, which is responsible for managing your sleep-wake cycle.
Benefits of CBD gummies for sleep
CBD is widely recognized for its ability to ease pain and promote relaxation, all without causing mind-altering effects. Here’s how it may contribute to better sleep quality:
- Aids in managing symptoms of anxiety
CBD helps calm the nervous system and may aid in managing anxiety-related conditions. Research indicates that doses of CBD between 6 milligrams (mg) and 400 mg show promise in alleviating symptoms of social anxiety, generalized anxiety disorder, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). By addressing these underlying issues, CBD creates a sense of relaxation that can pave the way for more restful and uninterrupted sleep. - Helps combat insomnia
Combining CBD with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis known for its mind-altering effects, can potentially help treat insomnia in individuals without other medical conditions. Research involving people with moderate-to-severe insomnia found that using a blend of CBD, THC, and cannabinol significantly improved their sleep. Participants reported falling asleep faster, staying asleep longer, and enjoying better overall sleep quality. While CBD gummies show promise for enhancing sleep, it’s crucial to acknowledge that research in this area is still developing. Further clinical trials are necessary to better understand their long-term effects, ideal dosages, and potential interactions with other medications.
Understanding the risks of CBD edibles
As with any product containing cannabis compounds, CBD comes with potential risks and side effects. Some individuals may experience immediate allergic reactions, such as anaphylaxis or rashes, following ingestion. Other common side effects include dizziness, vomiting, diarrhea, and dry mouth, which may occur even at low doses, depending on the user’s sensitivity. Higher doses are more likely to amplify these effects.
Those with impaired liver function face a higher risk of experiencing toxic effects, as their bodies may struggle to process CBD efficiently. Additionally, excessive use or misuse of CBD could lead to dependency-like behaviors.
To reduce potential risks, always consult a medical professional especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. Ensuring products are sourced from reputable suppliers can also support safe and informed use.
Dos and don’ts for CBD gummies
Whether you’re new to CBD or looking to refine your routine, following these simple dos and don’ts can help you maximize their benefits and reduce adverse effects:
- Do consult your doctor
Speak to your doctor first before you buy CBD gummies for sleep to ensure they align with your overall health plan. Remember, CBD’s effects can differ based on genetics, body weight, and age. Your doctor can help identify the appropriate dosage for your needs and offer guidance on potential side effects or medication interactions. - Don’t ignore unwanted effects
If you experience side effects like dizziness or digestive discomfort, reevaluate your dosage or consult your doctor for guidance. - Do start small and increase gradually
CBD gummies may look like candy, but their effects can be powerful, so it’s important to approach them cautiously. Start with a low dose — typically five to ten mg of CBD — and increase gradually if needed, as long as your doctor says it’s safe for you. The general recommendation is to adjust by five to ten mg every three to four weeks until you find your ideal amount. - Don’t rush the process
Edibles may take up to an hour to be digested and metabolized. Avoid taking additional doses too quickly. Overconsumption can lead to heightened effects that may feel uncomfortable or last longer than desired. - Do track your experience
Pay attention to how your body responds after taking CBD gummies. Keep a journal or mental notes on any changes in sleep, mood, or overall well-being to determine if adjustments are needed. - Do store CBD gummies properly
Protect the potency of your CBD gummies by storing them in a cool, dry environment, away from direct sunlight or humidity. Proper storage helps preserve their effectiveness and flavor.
Buy CBD gummies for sleep at Shango
If you have a prescription for CBD gummies for sleep, you can easily purchase them from Shango. We provide different cannabis products, including edibles, oils, topicals, concentrates, and more, to suit your medical needs and desired effects. Explore our collection online, or drop by one of our locations to learn more about our offerings.
If you’re new to cannabis, our team is here to help. Contact us today for personalized advice in selecting the right CBD products for your journey.