3 minute read
What is a Plant-Based Diet with CBD Infusions?
Before there was marijuana legalization in the majority of states, CBD was introduced first across the nation. CBD the more “calmer” molecule found in cannabis plants, does not contain the psychoactive molecule (THC) that gets people high. Although CBD still has health benefits of its own. Along with increasing CBD trends, plant-based diets have also been on the rise with more people adopting a plant-based diet. To clarify, a plant-based diet does not mean going vegan or vegetarian, rather it is a general approach to incorporating more plant-based foods into daily consumption.
Why are they both trendy and on the rise? Mostly because of their health benefits. Believe it or not, you really are what you eat! To prove that, about 70% of the human immune system is actually located within the intestines, also known as your gut, where digestion takes place.
Plant-based diets have been recommended by healthcare professionals mainly for their nutrient rich content.
Diets rich in plants have also been shown to help reduce/manage diseases like high blood pressure (hypertension), in which high blood pressure can increase the risk of other major health issues like stroke, heart disease, and diabetes while possibly contributing to a longer, healthier life.
CBD on the other hand can also help manage stress, anxiety, depression, and inflammation, while also being an effective anti-seizure and neurological disorder treatment.
Together, they can increase the quality and longevity of life! Where does CBD come from? CBD is a molecule found in the marijuana plant, however, can also be extracted from hemp plants.
The difference is that hemp contains very little, a minuscule amount of THC, again the psychoactive molecule that gets people “high”, whereas marijuana plants contain varying but more amounts of THC. In short, CBD can be extracted from the leaves of both marijuana and hemp plants, which are both parts of the cannabis plant family.
So, naturally, CBD can be incorporated into a plant-based diet easily because it comes from a plant! CBD can be added to foods and drinks through various forms these days.
As trendy as it’s become and due it’s legal status, you can find CBD infusions in smoothie and tea shops, fancy cocktails at restaurants, and even incorporated them into foods for a nice, calming meal.
CBD can be mixed into an oil for cooking, which can also be used in edibles or put into a capsule for easy ingestion. Topical products are highly popular as well, like a lotion or balm to help with inflammation.
CBD flower is bred, so the traditional method of smoking can still be done if that’s preferred. CBD vapes are available now as well for a convenient and discreet inhalation method. Another easy, newer way to ingest CBD comes in bottled drinks, especially bottled waters.
Important to mention, not all CBD supplements and their various forms are created equal. A major concern is the purity and dosage of CBD found in these products. Especially for the consumers who do not want THC in their products, as one market study found several brands to contain THC in amounts higher than legally allowed.
The best advice is to find one from a trusted source, with testing of their products available for the public to see.
