WHAT CANNABIS SCIENCE TELLS US ABOUT HEALTHY LIVING HABITS
The intake of CBD in our lives can help for different problems and pathologies. Cannabidiol helps regulate the endocannabinoid system (ECS), which in turn regulates and controls the nervous system and immune system, as well as appetite and mood, sleep and memory. But CBD cannot "cure" diseases. There are other very important factors that play a fundamental role and affect our state of health such as lifestyle, eating habits and physical activity.
Bad habits and metabolic syndrome
A variety of bad lifestyle habits lead, in the long run, to endocannabinoid system dysfunction resulting in metabolic syndrome, heart disease, and other degenerative conditions associated with our heavily processed Western diet and sedentary lifestyle.
The endocannabinoid system
When functioning properly, the endocannabinoid system keeps our appetite, satiety and, consequently, weight well balanced. The CB1 cannabinoid receptors in our brain signal it's time to eat when we need to eat, stimulating our appetite and sharpening our sense of smell so that food is more rewarding. Activation of the CB2 cannabinoid receptor, on the other hand, works to reduce food intake and prevent the accumulation of body fat.
Healthy eating
In ancient times, when only fresh meat, fruits and vegetables were available, it was easier to naturally keep our ECS in balance. But nowadays our diet is often out of control so that our CB1 receptors are stuck in overdrive mode, meaning they are super stimulated by all the sugary and high fat foods we consume. A study in mice found that when rodents were fed a high-fat, high-sugar diet for 60 days, their CB1 receptors become overactive, which prevents the secretion of amino acids intended to reduce appetite as well as when the system works. correctly. On the other hand, CB2 receptors – which are activated by plant-based foods such as leafy and bitter vegetables, olive oil and various spices – are essentially weak in a diet dominated by carbohydrates, processed and processed foods.
Even the lack of Omega-3 fatty acids alters the functioning of our cannabinoid receptors. These healthy fatty acids keep our ECS running smoothly. But when you are deficient in omega-3 fatty acids, your ECS function is impaired.
Endocannabinoid system and health
The ECS also regulates the gut-brain axis, facilitating communication between the gut microbiota and the brain. A healthy gut microbiota – the trillions of beneficial bacteria that live in our gut – is essential, and not just because it aids in effective and efficient digestion. The gut has its own "brain" which communicates with the primary brain via the central nervous system. Scientists and doctors recognize the importance of the gut-brain axis, which regulates inflammation, digestion and even mood, emotion and general well-being. If the diet is harming the microbiota and causing gut dysbiosis, it's also distorting the ECS and the way the brain works.
Correct physical activity
Last but not least, constant physical activity is needed to maintain a good endocannabinoid system and good health. Exercise triggers the release of natural endocannabinoids, helping maintain lower stress levels and a balanced body weight. But these days it's all too easy to spend most of the time sitting, in front of desks, in the car or on the sofa or, conversely, an excess of sports practices.
CBD helps improve the quality of life
CBD can be our great ally and support us: it can help relieve many symptoms and restore a better quality of life.
Everything else is up to us!