CBD and Gut Health: Is There a Connection?

Did you know that CBD has a unique and interesting connection to your gut? In fact, this connection has encouraged many in the health industry to recommend the use of this supplement. However, to fully understand what CBD can do, it is essential to have some important information. For example, why is your gut health so important to begin with?

Your gut, which includes your body’s entire intestinal tract, is the primary interface between you and your external environment. Consider this – your gut is protected with a single-celled wall of cells. These cells are the only layer of defense in place to protect your bloodstream from different irritants and toxins that make it into the digestive tract. Ensuring it is functioning properly is critical for almost all aspects of your health, including mental health.

Your Gut Is Your Second Brain

There are some in the medical field that refers to your gut as your “second brain.” This is because there is a direct line of communication between your gut and brain. Most people are surprised to learn that up to 90% of your body’s serotonin (the feel-good neurotransmitter in your brain) is actually created in your gut. Also, the relationships between these two organs (your gut and brain) are partially controlled by your endocannabinoid system.

This means the integrity of the gut wall is critical. You can think of the lining in your gut as a type of tightly woven mesh. It has a crucial function, which is to keep toxins from entering the bloodstream.

How CBD Improves Gut Health

CBD has an important role in the function and the structure of your gut. CB-1 and CB-2 receptors in your gut help explain the endocannabinoid systems' role in gut health. Here are a few specific ways that CBD will support gut health.

Impact on Gut Motility

If gut motility is too fast, it can cause diarrhea. If it is too slow, you become constipated. CBD helps support healthy gut motility and will help the body achieve that “Goldilocks effect” related to digestion. It won’t be too fast or too slow, instead, it will be just right.

Impact to TNF-Alpha Production

CBD helps suppress the release of TNF-alpha. This is one of the main inflammatory compounds that is released when your gut’s inflammatory response isn’t balanced. CBD can help reduce this release, which will ensure a healthy inflammation response in your gut.

Cross Talk

There is evidence of cross-talk between the good and bad microbes present in your gut and your endocannabinoid system. Some studies of people with gut health issues had shown relief when CBD was added to their treatment.

Are You Ready to Try CBD for Gut Health?

As you can see, there are several reasons to add CBD to your routine. In most cases, it will help improve gut health and ensure that you don’t have to deal with any adverse effects that may occur if your gut is out of balance.