Although CBD cannot be termed as an “all-cure” natural compound, it has exceedingly numerous benefits. It can be used to treat common and mild conditions such as headaches, joint pains to serious health problems like cancer, arthritis, fibromyalgia among others. CBD doesn’t necessarily provide cure, but it makes handling of all these medical conditions easier. Vitamin supplements, on the other hand, are known for their various health benefits. They are responsible for nourishing the body and enhancing the functions of various systems such as; digestive, immune and the central nervous system.
From reviews, there are multiple similarities between vitamin supplements and CBD products. This has left many people wondering if CBD can be used to replace healthy vitamin supplements. While they might be some resemblance in the way that they interact with various systems in the body, how effective is CBD as a vitamin supplement?
What’s CBD?
This is a cannabinoid that’s found in hemp and sometimes marijuana. It’s a compound with non-intoxicating effects and has a lot of health benefits. Being non-psychoactive, CBD doesn’t result in euphoria. Some of its benefits include:
Providing Pain Relief
It’s a natural pain reliever. This is a compound that’s full of anti-inflammatory properties. CBD can be used to relieve pain that’s caused by diseases or conditions such as multiple sclerosis, cancer, fibromyalgia, arthritis among others. CBD oil is one of the best pain relievers and it provides long-lasting effects.
Treating Behavioral Addiction
A lot of drug addicts and smokers usually suffer from severe withdrawal symptoms once they stop smoking tobacco and using drugs such as heroin, cocaine etc. However, CBD can be used to ease the effects of behavioral addiction. It improves the symptoms of anxiety, hormonal and appetite changes which are associated with withdrawals.
CBD Immunosuppressant
The high level of cannabinoids in this compound usually make people think that it isn’t an immunosuppressant. Well, CBD has a low level of affinity to the CB1 and CB2 cannabis receptors which are found in the body. The CBD immunosuppressant effects can be experienced by the body but they are normally mild. Unlike THC, it doesn’t produce that “high” feeling.
What Are Supplements?
They are products that contain a blend of ingredients which help to improve a number of functions in the body. Most supplements contain antioxidants, vitamins, amino acids, anti-inflammatories etc. supplements are used by different people for various reasons. Most of them are designed to promote weight loss, improve the digestive health, enhance energy levels in the body, and to support the immune system among others.
Note: The supplement industry is filled with numerous products and some of them contain artificial enhancers. Because of this, it is advised to always go for plant-based vitamin supplements.
The Marijuana and Nutrition Supplement Industry
All these two industries are growing at fast speeds. However, the FDA does not regulate either. At the moment, it’s estimated that the supplement industry is worth more than $130 billion globally. Over 1/3 of the American population use supplements and they are the biggest spenders i.e. around $40 billion. The legal marijuana market is expected to hit $146 billion by the year 2025. These two are the top and most thriving industries worldwide.
A Comparison of CBD vs Vitamin Supplements
Both the CBD and supplement industry are thriving. A lot of people are struggling with weight loss and have turned to vitamin supplement for health and wellness. Additionally, CBD-based products have become the best alternatives to conventional medicines thanks to their high-quality effects. But can CBD be used as a vitamin supplement? Outlined below is a comparison of CBD versus various vitamin supplements.
CBD vs Vitamin A
Vitamin A is also known as retinol. It’s a strong type of antioxidant which is beneficial for vision. In addition to that, it promotes the development of skeletal tissues and soft tissues like skin and teeth. Hemp CBD oil contains negligible amounts of vitamin A.
Verdict: CBD is not a reliable source of Vitamin A hence it can’t be used a source of this supplement.
CBD vs the B-Vitamins
These vitamins are essential for physical and psychological functions in the body. They help to enhance the skin’s health, nerve function, and vision. Vitamin B6, for instance, is normally used to maintain the functions of the nervous system while vitamin B12 is good for heart health, memory function, digestion, skin, and mood. Hemp seeds have about 0.5 mg of vitamin B6 and lack B12.
Verdict: The amount of vitamin B6 found in hemp seeds doesn’t meet the daily requirements. The hemp seeds b12 vitamins are non-existent. Overall, CBD can’t be useful for intake of B-vitamins because cannabis products don’t have marijuana b12 or b6 vitamins.
CBD vs. Vitamin C
It’s one of the safest and most effective types of vitamins that are used to improve the functions of the immune system. Additionally, vitamin C helps to improve vision, reduce the likelihood of cardiovascular diseases, and improve skin health. Vitamin C isn’t stored in the body hence it needs to be taken daily. Hemp seeds have just 0.5 mg of vitamin C, much lower than the 60 mg that’s required daily.
Verdict: CBD can’t replace vitamin C supplements.
CBD vs. Vitamin D
It’s a vital vitamin for any diet. Vitamin D can be obtained from the sun or food. It’s essential in supporting the immune system and the development of strong bones. Hemp seeds which are shelled contain less the daily required level of vitamin D. However, high-quality hemp supplements are normally fortified with vitamins hence they have high amounts of CBD.
Verdict: If you purchase premium hemp oil that’s fortified then you can get enough CBD D-vitamins. This means that high-quality CBD can be used to replace vitamin supplements.
CBD vs. Probiotics
Normally, probiotics are normally found in most vitamin supplements to support the gut health. These microorganisms improve digestive health as well as the immune system. The supplement market is filled with a wide range of products which have probiotics bacteria including yogurts. CBD oil can improve the gut health as well as the intestinal lining.
Verdict: Although CBD hemp oil can improve the digestive health, it doesn’t have the effects of probiotics hence it can be used as a source of probiotics.
Fatty Acids
The body needs fatty acids such as Omega 3 and 6 Fatty Acids. However, the amount of Omega3 should be much higher than that Omega 6. Overall, fatty acids contain a wide range of health benefits which include improving cardiovascular health and brain health. Hemp seeds have both omega 3 & 6 fatty acids.
Verdict: CBD contains average levels of fatty acids. However, if you combine it with oily fish a couple of times in a week, then you will get the required fatty acids.
These are the most common types of vitamins that are found in health supplements. Although CBD contains some of the vitamins, it can’t be used to replace a wide variety of supplements. Furthermore, most of the vitamins that are found in CBD hemp oil are below than the daily requirements hence they need to be reinforced with other foods.
Vitamin supplements are usually available online from retailers such as Macy’s, Amazon, Vitamin Shoppe, eBay, among others. Meanwhile, CBD is normally available in some health dispensaries and certified organizations in addition to some retail stores online. They are cost-friendly products and you can even use the hemp traders coupon to make purchases.
CBD vs Vitamin Supplements: Side Effects
CBD has some similarities with vitamin supplements in terms of content, they have almost similar side effects. Both of them can negatively affect the way the nervous system works, immunity and digestive health. However, using CBD or vitamin supplements in moderate doses will not produce any significant side effects this is because CBD oil and organic supplements are all well-tolerated.
If you notice a persistent or severe side effect, discontinue use and seek medical assistance as soon as you can.
Final Thoughts
CBD can be used to replace vitamin supplements but only a few of them. It features amazing compounds which have properties such as antiemetic, antioxidant, pain reliever, neuroprotectant, and anti-inflammatory. Just like vitamins, it can improve the functions of systems and organs such as the brain, heart, digestive system, cardiovascular system, nervous system, and the immune system.
However, CBD doesn’t contain all the vitamins. There are also instances where this compound contains vitamins but in low amounts hence it needs to be reinforced with certain types of foods. If you want to use it as an alternative for a vitamin supplement, ensure that you consult first with your doctor. This is because CBD can interact with certain drugs. Additionally, it can affect your blood sugar levels and if you are a diabetic, this can be harmful. Overall, CBD is a well-tolerated compound but it should be used with caution.