Did you know that your body isn’t absorbing the amount of CBD listed on the package? You’re getting a much lower dosage. Unfortunately, it is difficult for the body to absorb. CBD is fat-soluble, and with a body of mostly water, you can see why this might be the case.
There are water-soluble formulas available that can increase the bioavailability of CBD, but not all formulas are water-soluble. How can you absorb more with each dosage? Many people wonder if certain foods might help our body to absorb more CBD. After all, certain prescription medications direct patients to take them with food.
Can Certain Foods Increase the Bioavailability Rate of CBD?
Much of what we think we know about CBD is still being researched. Federal regulations prevent most federally-funded studies in the United States, leading to an underwhelming amount of information and its effects and interactions.
But, we are learning more every single year, including how to better absorb CBD.
A 2019 study by The University of Minnesota studied the bioavailability rate of CBD in participants who consumed a high-fat breakfast versus participants who fasted. The study found that participants who ate a high-fat meal absorbed more CBD than the ones who fasted. The researchers found the fat content of a meal can lead to “significant increases in maximum absorbency.”
Fat, as it pertains to food, is viewed through a much different lens than even a decade ago. Fat has traditionally been viewed as “bad” or the leading cause of weight gain and disease. However, recent research tells us that only certain types of fat are bad. What’s more, our body actually runs on good fats. We need them to function healthy, so don’t be afraid to utilize good fats to maximize your CBD’s potential.
Here are some examples of nutrient-dense foods with healthy fats to take with your next dose:
- Fish. Oily fish like salmon and herring
- Nuts & Seeds. Flaxseed, chia seed, walnuts
- Healthy Fats. Avocados
- Oils. Olive, coconut, hemp, and MCT oil
The Entourage Effect
Like CBD, THC is another cannabinoid you’ve probably heard of. There are over 100 known cannabinoids in the cannabis plant, and researchers suspect there are even more to be discovered with further research. There is a theory called the entourage effect, and it says that cannabinoids like THC and CBD work better together than they do apart.
A randomized controlled trial found CBD and THC to work better together for chronic pain, rather than THC alone. The only difference between the two was the presence of CBD in the latter study. But, cannabinoids aren’t the only compound we have to consider. Cannabis plants also have terpenes and flavonoids, which influence the way cannabinoids work in our bodies.
They also have some pretty powerful benefits of their own.
Beta-caryophyllene is one of the most unique terpenes of all. Unlike other terpenes, which don’t interact with our body’s endocannabinoid receptor, beta-caryophyllene binds to the CB2 receptors. CBD also interacts with CB2 receptors, but in a more roundabout way. Combining the two, and other terpenes too, could enhance the absorption rate and effects of CBD.
You can find beta-caryophyllene in a variety of foods we eat every day, including rosemary, black pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and basil.
What Else Do I Need to Know?
Pairing with certain foods alone may not get you the results you’re looking for. If that’s the case, there are some other things to consider:
- Opt for full-spectrum products over isolates for the most potent effect.
- Full-spectrum CBD products feature the entire cannabinoid profile, but isolate products don’t.
- If you’re sensitive to THC, consider a broad-spectrum formula. Broad-spectrum CBD products contain all of the important cannabinoids and flavonoids, but no THC.
- You’re unlikely to test positive for a drug test taking the hemp-derived product, but if you’re concerned, broad-spectrum CBD products are a great solution.
Need more help? Our integrative practitioners can meet with you online or in-person to provide guidance and assistance in your CBD journey.
