A common question we get from regulars is, “Can I drink while taking CBD? gummies”. This question may apply to you regardless of what form of CBD you have. This question popped up in your mind. To put you at ease, here’s a short but definitive article explaining how CBD and Alcohol interact.
What is CBD?
CBD stands for Cannabidiol, a compound in the Cannabis Sativa plant, more commonly known as hemp. CBD has grown in popularity now, and you can find different products, from oils and creams, to gummies.
It is known for its relaxing effects, and many people take it to relax or reduce pain.
What is Alcohol?
Alcohol is a chemical substance found in alcoholic beverages formed due to the fermentation of the main ingredients used to make the drink. Examples of such ingredients include grains, fruits, and sugar.
Alcohol causes your heart rate to increase and expands the blood vessels in your body. It also interferes with how your brain functions causing issues with mood and mobility. If a lot of Alcohol is consumed, it can irritate the stomach lining, causing nausea or vomiting.
What Happens When You Mix CBD and Alcohol?
There has been limited research on the effects of CBD and Alcohol, but some of the most notable ones are as follows:
- CBD and Alcohol may amplify each other’s effects – According to the FDA, mixing CBD with Alcohol and vice versa may intensify the effects. Due to this, the FDA warns against blindly taking the two together. Alcohol may increase the drowsiness brought on by taking CBD. So, it’s wise to refrain from driving or operating machinery after taking the two together.
- CBD may prevent Alcohol’s adverse effects – In another study by Free Radic Biol Med done last 2014, they found that CBD may increase autophagy and block cell damage due to excessive drinking.
- CBD may reduce blood alcohol levels – in a study done by P Consroe et al., they found that CBD reduced the blood alcohol levels in their participants.Â
- CBD may have therapeutic effects for alcoholics – in a study conducted on animals, the researchers found that CBD helped reduce Alcohol and prevented relapse. CBD decreased the motivation of test subjects to consume more Alcohol.
How Alcohol Affects CBD?
According to a study done by Wolfe et al., excessive Alcohol may affect the Endocannabinoid System (ECS). This effect on the ECS also affects CBD. Drinking Alcohol after taking CBD may limit the positive effects. Instead of relaxation, you may feel grogginess or agitation instead.
It is crucial to note excessiveness, though, when analyzing the result of the study mentioned above.
What to Look for When Buying CBD Products If You Drink?
Opt for low dosage. Higher dosages may have undesirable effects or may not work properly due to alcohol inhibition. If you are taking CBD for sleep, we recommend THC-free CBD capsules and, for tinctures, something like 1200 mg of CBD oils.
Topical CBD products are not directly affected by Alcohol, so muscle gels and CBD creams can be of any dosage. An easy way to take CBD is Gummies. Stirling offers the best CBD Gummies because we use a pectin-based formula which makes them vegan, and use tapioca syrup instead of corn syrup and beet sugar instead of cane sugar.Â
In both instances, this greatly reduces the caloric intake and viability of the product.Â
Verdict: Should You Drink While Taking CBD?
Though the research has been limited, we can draw some main points from it.Â
- CBD and Alcohol, like all edibles, should be taken in moderation
- Taking CBD before drinking Alcohol may produce positive results
The medical community is aligned that you should avoid excessive intake of alcohol. Remember to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for CBD; since Alcohol may magnify CBD’s effect, it’s better to be cautious than sorry. Lastly, CBD’s promising effect on reducing the urge to drink can positively affect the treatment of alcoholics.
