CBD Gummies for Diabetes: Benefits and Usage Explained

Cannabidiol (CBD) is a compound found in cannabis that’s taking the holistic health world by storm. Unlike tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), CBD doesn't produce a high, making it appealing if you’re seeking relief from pain, anxiety, and other chronic health conditions without mind-altering effects. Understanding the differences between THC vs. CBD can help you make an informed decision about which health products you use.

CBD gummies, a popular edible form, have gained popularity for their ease of use and precise dosing. With the rising interest in options for natural diabetes remedies, CBD gummies are being explored for their potential benefits in managing diabetes and associated conditions, such as nerve pain relief, easing inflammation, reducing cortisol levels, insulin regulation, blood glucose control, sleep improvement, and easing gastrointestinal issues. In this article, we’ll explore some of these claims that have been studied by emerging research.

What are CBD gummies?

CBD gummies are edible supplements infused with CBD, a non-psychoactive compound extracted from the cannabis plant. They offer a convenient and palatable way to consume CBD without intoxicating effects, making them a popular choice for both new and experienced users.

These gummies come in various flavors, shapes, and strengths of CBD, allowing you to choose according to your preference and dosage needs. Typically, CBD gummies are made by blending CBD oil or isolate with a gummy base consisting of gelatin or pectin, sweeteners, and flavorings.

People use CBD gummies for various reasons, including pain relief, improved sleep, anxiety reduction, and relaxation. They provide a discreet and controlled way to take CBD, as each gummy contains a pre-measured dose. This consistency helps you manage your intake accurately and integrate CBD into your daily intake, which then interacts with your endocannabinoid system for potentially therapeutic effects.

Does CBD help with diabetes?

CBD is being researched for its potential benefits in managing diabetes. While clinical evidence is still emerging, some studies suggest that CBD may help with diabetes by reducing inflammation and weight gain, which are common issues faced by people with this condition. However, these potential benefits remain speculative, as most research in this field has been conducted on mice and rats rather than humans.

CBD's therapeutic properties could also potentially help in managing diabetes symptoms and complications such as neuropathy (nerve damage) and diabetic brain injury. However, these benefits have also not been confirmed, as studies have been based on animals or human tissue outside of a living body in laboratory settings.

What type of CBD is best for diabetes?

For people with diabetes, full-spectrum CBD may be considered the best option because it contains a range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds from the cannabis plant. These work together for maximum benefits (known as the entourage effect).

Full-spectrum CBD contains trace amounts of THC (up to 0.3%), which are not large enough to cause psychoactive effects. Products with higher amounts of THC are illegal in the U.S.

However, some may prefer broad-spectrum CBD, which also includes multiple cannabinoids and terpenes but without any THC. CBD isolates, containing only pure CBD, are another option for those wanting to avoid other cannabinoids altogether. Always consult a healthcare professional to determine the best type of CBD for your needs.

CBD gummies for diabetes: are there any benefits?

Interest continues to grow in the use of CBD as a supplement for diabetes. Despite promising initial research, no definite benefits have yet been established. It’s also worth noting that gummies contain added sugars, meaning they may not be the best option for people with diabetes. Current research is not yet robust enough to guarantee improvements for people with diabetes, but early studies suggest this topic is worth exploring further.

So far, studies on this topic have only been conducted on animals and, in a few cases, on human tissue outside of a living body in a laboratory setting. Based on current research, here are some of the potential benefits.

Delaying the onset of diabetes and reducing inflammation

Animal research from 2016 suggests taking CBD may help to delay the onset of diabetes. One study on mice found that those supplemented with CBD developed type 1 diabetes later than those not supplemented with it.

The mice also showed less immune cell activation, reduced inflammation, and better blood flow in the pancreas. However, it’s a big leap to assume that the same applies to humans, so further research is needed to confirm this potential benefit.

Reducing cell damage

A 2007 study published in Heart and Circulatory Physiology investigated the effects of CBD on human coronary artery endothelial cells (the cells that line the insides of blood vessels in your heart). Results suggest that CBD can protect these cells from damage caused by high glucose levels, which could help to prevent diabetic complications. Further studies are needed on people with diabetes (as opposed to cells removed from the body) to ensure this treatment is safe and effective.

Relieving pain

A 2010 study published in Sage Journals investigated the effect of CBD on neuropathy pain (pain related to nerve damage, which can also cause joint pain). Again, mice were used as participants. Results suggested that CBD had pain-relieving effects for mice with diabetic neuropathy, indicating this may be worth further research in humans.

Side effects

CBD can cause some side effects, including dry mouth and fatigue. Less commonly, you may experience other side effects such as dizziness, nausea, headaches, or anxiety. While these are generally mild, CBD can also interact with other medications.

For example, it can alter how the liver metabolizes certain drugs (such as acetaminophen), potentially leading to increased side effects or reduced effectiveness of those medications. Speak to a medical professional before starting CBD, especially if you are taking other medications, to avoid potential risks or side effects.

How to choose high-quality CBD gummies

Here are some things to watch out for when choosing CBD gummies:

• Choose gummies made from organically grown hemp, free from pesticides and harmful chemicals.
• Make sure the product has been tested by an independent lab for purity and potency.
• Check that CBD content is clearly labeled and all ingredients are listed.
• Read customer reviews and choose reputable brands known for quality.
• Make sure the gummies contain less than 0.3% THC to comply with legal standards and avoid psychoactive effects.
• Look for products with consistent and accurate CBD dosage per gummy.
• Compare prices to ensure you’re getting good value for your money.

Is it safe to use CBD gummies for diabetes?

While CBD gummies offer potential benefits for people with diabetes, their safety and effectiveness are not fully established. Most research has been conducted on animals, and human studies are limited. In addition, they contain added sugars, which should be taken into consideration, especially in diabetes.

The American Diabetes Association states that while CBD is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects and interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness. Consult a healthcare professional before you start taking CBD, particularly if you take other medications or have an underlying health condition.

CBD may offer benefits for diabetes and its associated complications, such as reducing inflammation, easing pain, and minimizing cell damage. However, these effects are still being studied. Speak to a healthcare professional before starting CBD to ensure safety, determine the right dosage, and avoid potential side effects or interactions with other medications.