As CBD products continue to populate shelves at convenience stores, grocery stores, pharmacies, and veterinary clinics, more and more people are trying them as a natural option to help manage various health conditions for themselves, their families, and their pets.
Because of this explosion in popularity, I think exploring CBD's options, safety, and benefits for aging adults is a relevant topic of discussion.
In case you’re not familiar, CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound derived from the hemp plant that does not include the high-inducing component THC, but instead, contains a psychoactive that positively impacts the neurotransmitters in the brain resulting in relief from many conditions.
CBD Options
CBD is widely available in oils, tinctures, and salves that can be applied directly to areas of pain, added to beverages, or vaporized. Edible CBD products include gummies, hard candies, chocolates, and more, that will satisfy your sweet tooth while providing true health benefits.
Medical News Today recommends what they consider the best CBD products for seniors:
- Best CBD oil for those new to CBD: Lazarus Naturals Standard Potency Full Spectrum CBD Tincture
- Best CBD oil tincture: CBDistillery Full Spectrum CBD Oil Tincture
- Best low-dose CBD isolate drops: Social CBD Natural Isolate Drops
- Best broad-spectrum CBD tincture: Receptra Naturals Serious Relief + Turmeric 0% THC Tincture
CBD Safety
Because CBD is naturally derived from cannabis plants, it is considered a safe over-the-counter option for people of all ages, including seniors.
However, Medical News Today explains, “The FDA does not regulate CBD products the same way it does other medications. Some manufacturers may therefore make bold claims about the safety or effectiveness of their products that have no factual basis. To protect public health, the FDA can take action against CBD companies that make unfounded health claims. This is why it is important to look for companies that say that their products have undergone testing by a third-party company. This means that an independent laboratory has verified the product’s purity and potency.”
CBD Benefits
Home Care Magazine, a reputable online resource for seniors, has identified 10 potential health benefits of CBD for seniors:
- Anxiety – CBD can help promote stress reduction and lead to fewer physiological effects from anxiety, like increased heart rate.
- Neurodegenerative Disorders – Ongoing research indicates that CBD may become a useful tool in the battle against neurodegenerative disease and its symptoms. CBD lowers inflammation, and it is inflammation that makes ND symptoms worse. Stay tuned for more findings from research studies.
- Mental Health and Mood-Related Disorders – CBD has been shown to decrease social isolation, feelings of depression and loneliness, all of which negatively impact the mental and physical health of seniors.
- Sleep Disorders - CBD can help promote calmness and relaxation leading to higher quality sleep. CBD is a natural way to lead to more regular and helpful sleep for seniors. Plus, it can reduce the need to take prescription sleep medications.
- Pain Management – CBD can be a compelling alternative as a natural and potentially safer remedy than traditional pain medications. Studies have indicated that CBD can reduce inflammation while alleviating pain. Conditions that have favorably responded include joint pain, arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.
- Bone Health – Seniors are more likely to endure falls and suffer fractures and other injuries. In addition to reducing inflammation and promoting cell repair, research shows that CBD may aid in strengthening bones. It can also promote the body’s ability to heal.
- Addiction & Dependence – CBD has been shown to alleviate some conditions that involve opioids, generally without significant side effects. On top of that, CBD can aid in combating developed dependencies that grew out of the use of prescribed medications. It appears that CBD has the potential to help fight relapses and assist in overcoming withdrawals that develop during this time.
- Heart Health – CBD is very promising as an alternative and natural treatment for high blood pressure. Another study suggests that the antioxidant properties of CBD can aid in lowering cardiac inflammation and deter the death of related cells that result from oxidative stress.
- Cancer Treatment – CBD may help alleviate the symptoms of cancer along with the side effects stemming from treatment. In fact, CBD has shown a reduction in tumor growth in animals. It may even help the body absorb medications better or increase their potency.
- Appetite Stimulation – Marijuana has been studied extensively in this area, and is proven to enhance appetite in its users. CBD can stimulate appetite as well, according to some studies. In this way, it can be beneficial for seniors combating malnutrition and appetite loss.
“There have been few side effects noted in CBD use studies, but they do occur and can include dry mouth, diarrhea, reduced appetite, drowsiness, and fatigue. CBD can also interact with other medications, such as blood thinners,” the Home Care article noted.
I strongly recommend that seniors always consult with their physicians or primary care providers before adding CBD products to their daily regimen, and most certainly before replacing prescribed medications with CBD to address specific medical issues.
A compassionate Home Helpers® caregiver can help you or a special senior you love this year by providing a variety of in-home care services in the Clearwater area, that includes medication reminders, pharmacy pickups and more. I am available to schedule a FREE Consultation at your convenience to assess specific needs and create a personalized care plan that is customized to address these needs and make life easier for everyone’s peace of mind.
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