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If you're curious about the recent trend of adding cannabidiol (CBD) to coffee, you may be wondering if it will have a sedative effect on you.
CBD is known for its calming effects, but what happens when it's combined with the stimulating effects of caffeine? Let's take a closer look at the science behind CBD and coffee to understand how they affect the body, and whether or not CBD coffee will make you sleepy.
How does CBD affect the body?
CBD works by interacting with the body's endocannabinoid system, a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that help regulate various bodily functions like sleep, mood, and appetite. The endocannabinoid system is involved in maintaining homeostasis, or balance, in the body.
When CBD is consumed, it interacts with the CB1 and CB2 receptors in the endocannabinoid system. CB1 receptors are primarily located in the brain and central nervous system, while CB2 receptors are found throughout the body, particularly in the immune system.
Research suggests that CBD can influence the activity of these receptors, which can produce a variety of effects depending on the individual and the CBD dosage. For example, CBD may help reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and improve sleep quality.
Additionally, some studies have suggested that CBD may have potential as a treatment for anxiety disorders, such as social anxiety disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). However, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on anxiety and other mental health conditions.
Overall, CBD's effects on the body are complex and not fully understood. While research is ongoing, many people have reported positive experiences with using CBD for various health concerns.
The science behind CBD and sleep
Getting a good night's sleep is essential for overall health and well-being. Unfortunately, many people struggle with sleep disorders, making it difficult for them to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night. This is where CBD comes in.
CBD and the endocannabinoid system
The endocannabinoid system is a complex network of receptors and neurotransmitters that plays a role in regulating various bodily functions, including sleep-wake cycles. CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant that interacts with this system to promote relaxation and reduce anxiety, which can help improve the quality and duration of sleep.
When CBD is consumed, it interacts with the endocannabinoid system by binding to CB1 and CB2 receptors. CB1 receptors are primarily found in the brain and nervous system, while CB2 receptors are mainly located in the immune system and peripheral tissues. By binding to these receptors, CBD can help regulate various bodily functions, including sleep.
Research on CBD and sleep
Several studies have been conducted to investigate the effects of CBD on sleep. One such study, published in The Permanente Journal in 2019, found that CBD improved sleep for people with anxiety and sleep disorders. The study involved 72 participants, with 47 experiencing anxiety and 25 experiencing poor sleep. The participants were given 25mg of CBD in capsule form each day. After the first month, 79.2% of patients reported lower anxiety levels and 66.7% reported better sleep.
Another study, published in Frontiers in Pharmacology in 2018, showed that CBD had potential as a treatment for insomnia. The study involved 409 people with insomnia, who were given either 160mg of CBD or a placebo. The results showed that those who took CBD experienced improved sleep, with a decrease in the number of times they woke up during the night.
While these studies show promising results, more research is needed to fully understand the effects of CBD on sleep. It is important to note that CBD can have different effects on different people, and further studies are needed to determine the optimal dosage and delivery method for CBD as a sleep aid.
Coffee and its role in alertness
Coffee has been a popular beverage for centuries, with its origins dating back to the 15th century in Ethiopia. Today, it is consumed all over the world and is an essential part of many people's daily routines. One of the main reasons for its popularity is its ability to increase alertness and combat sleepiness.
How coffee counteracts sleepiness
Coffee is one of the most popular sources of caffeine, and it can be an effective way to stay awake and alert, especially in the morning. The caffeine in coffee is absorbed into the bloodstream and travels to the brain, where it blocks adenosine receptors and increases the levels of other neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine. These chemicals can improve mood, increase focus, and enhance cognitive performance.
However, it's important to note that everyone's sensitivity to caffeine is different, and drinking too much coffee can lead to side effects like jitters and anxiety. It's recommended that adults consume no more than 400mg of caffeine per day, which is equivalent to about four cups of coffee.
In conclusion, coffee can be a powerful tool for increasing alertness and combating sleepiness. Its main active ingredient, caffeine, works by blocking adenosine receptors in the brain and increasing the levels of other neurotransmitters. However, it's important to consume coffee in moderation and be aware of its potential side effects.
The combination of CBD and coffee
For many people, coffee is an essential part of their daily routine. It provides a much-needed energy boost and helps them power through their day. However, for some people, the side effects of caffeine can be overwhelming. From jitters to anxiety, caffeine can have some negative effects on the body. That's where CBD comes in.
The rationale behind CBD-infused coffee
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant. It has been shown to have a variety of potential health benefits, including reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation.
Combining CBD with coffee may seem counterintuitive, but proponents of CBD-infused coffee claim that it can provide the best of both worlds. CBD can help counteract the potential side effects of caffeine, like anxiety, while still allowing you to enjoy the stimulating effects of coffee.
When you drink CBD coffee, the CBD interacts with your body's endocannabinoid system, which helps regulate a variety of bodily functions, including sleep, mood, and appetite. This interaction can help promote a sense of calm and relaxation, while still allowing you to stay alert and focused.
Factors that influence the effects of CBD coffee
Dosage and concentration
The effects of CBD coffee can vary depending on the amount of CBD and caffeine in each cup. It's important to start with a low dose and work your way up to find the right balance for you.
CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in the cannabis plant that has been shown to have a variety of health benefits, including reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and reducing inflammation.
Caffeine, on the other hand, is a stimulant that can help improve alertness and focus. When combined, CBD and caffeine can have a synergistic effect, with the CBD helping to counteract some of the negative side effects of caffeine, such as jitters and anxiety.
Some coffee shops that offer CBD-infused coffee may have different concentrations, so it's important to read the labels and ask about dosage.
A typical dose of CBD is between 10-20mg, but some people may require more or less depending on their individual needs. It's also important to note that the effects of CBD can take up to an hour to kick in, so it's best to start with a low dose and wait to see how you feel before consuming more.
Individual differences and tolerance
Just like with any substance, everyone's body reacts differently to CBD and caffeine. Some people may find that CBD coffee makes them sleepy, while others feel more alert and focused.
Tolerance can also play a role, as some people may build up a tolerance to the effects of CBD and caffeine over time. It's important to pay attention to how your body reacts to CBD coffee and adjust your dosage accordingly.
In addition to individual differences, there are other factors that can influence the effects of CBD coffee. For example, consuming CBD coffee on an empty stomach may result in a quicker onset of effects, while consuming it with a meal may result in a slower onset.
Other factors, such as age, weight, and metabolism, can also play a role in how your body processes CBD and caffeine.
Quality of the CBD
The quality of the CBD used in CBD-infused coffee can also play a role in the effects it has on the body. It's important to choose a reputable brand that uses high-quality, organic hemp to ensure that you're getting a pure and potent product.
Some brands may use lower-quality CBD or add in fillers and additives that can dilute the effects of the CBD. It's also important to look for third-party lab testing results, which can help ensure that the CBD is free from contaminants and meets the advertised potency.
Overall, CBD coffee can be a great way to start your day with a boost of energy and a dose of health benefits. By paying attention to dosage, individual differences, and the quality of the CBD used, you can customize your CBD coffee experience to suit your needs and preferences.
Conclusion: Does CBD coffee make you sleepy?
So, does CBD coffee make you sleepy? The answer is: it depends. CBD and caffeine can have opposite effects on the body, but their interaction can vary depending on the individual and the dosage.
While some people may find that CBD coffee helps them relax and sleep better, others may experience increased alertness and productivity. Ultimately, it's up to you to decide if CBD coffee is right for you and how it affects your body.
Try Windansea's CBD Coffee
Our CBD-infused coffee is a unique and delicious way to enjoy the benefits of CBD. We ethically source our coffee beans, which is roasted in small batches, and infused with high-quality CBD oil to create a smooth and flavourful blend.
About the Author
This article was written by Jordan O'Hara, Founder of Windansea Coffee.
You can learn more about him here.