To this point, CBD has already been used as a natural organic alternative to promote the well-being of patients suffering from symptoms and treatment side effects of several diseases and conditions, including chronic illnesses, anxiety and depression, Alzheimer’s, epilepsy, menopause symptoms, and many more others.
Cannabidiol, or CBD, is a chemical compound found in the cannabis Sativa plant. It works by interacting with neuroreceptors in your endocannabinoid system by sending signals between cells in the body, regulating movement, mood, homeostasis, and the immune system.
Recent studies conducted on mice and rats in the lab have shown increased hope for diabetes patients. Although there is still a lack of research focusing specifically on CBD for humans to treat diabetes, the number of individuals using it and declaring a positive effect on their wellbeing has exponentially increased.
In fact, according to a study published in Drug and Alcohol Dependence in July 2020, the prevalence of cannabis use increased by 340 percent among people with diabetes from 2005 to 2018.
What is Diabetes?
Diabetes is a condition that affects the way the body makes or uses insulin, a hormone that enables glucose (sugar) from the blood to enter the cells for energy. When sugar cannot enter cells, it builds up in the bloodstream. Over time, high blood sugar levels can cause serious health problems affecting the heart, kidneys, nerves, and other organs.
There are two types of diabetes:
Type 1 – The body cannot produce any insulin. Patients manage the condition by taking insulin.
Type 2 – The body still produces some insulin, but it cannot use it properly. Patients still need to manage their condition with a healthier lifestyle (eat healthily and exercise) but may still need medication and insulin.
Patients with diabetes must manage high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) and low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia).
Symptoms of high blood sugar levels (hyperglycemia) may include:
- Urinating often
- Drowsiness
- Feeling nauseated
- Blurred vision
- Extreme hunger or thirst
Symptoms of low blood sugar levels (hypoglycemia) may include:
- Shaking
- Fast heartbeat
- Sweating
- Anxiety
- Dizziness
- Extreme hunger
- Weakness and tiredness
- Irritability
CBD and Diabetes
Because CBD directly interacts with the neuroreceptors of the endocannabinoid system, the compound can help patients treat diabetes symptoms, improving and regulating:
- Mood
- Immune response
- Pain and inflammation
- Appetite
- Memory
Although there is no confirmed evidence that CBD can regulate human blood sugar levels, studies already conducted in mice and rats have shown some positive impact.
In one study, researchers tested CBD on mice with less blood flow to the brain, a complication of diabetes for some people. They found that CBD:
- Cut down hyperglycemia (high blood sugar).
- Lowered cholesterol and “bad fat” levels.
- Upped insulin production.
Overall
Although there is still a lack of research connecting CBD and the control of blood sugar levels in humans, results from studies in mice and rats can be promising. However, diabetes patients already use CBD to treat many other diabetes symptoms, including pain, immune response, and anxiety.
Still have questions?
At Gaia Hemp, we believe in the miracle healing power of herbs, as we personally have experienced the restorative medicinal benefits of CBD. We value transparency by offering the finest quality Canadian-grown hemp and cold-pressed CBD extracted with 100% purity. If you still have questions, do not hesitate to contact us today.
