Does CBD Oil Cause Diarrhoea? The Truth About CBD and Your Gut

Let's address the question head-on: does CBD oil cause diarrhoea? The short answer is no, but it's a bit more complicated. While CBD is generally well-tolerated by most people, some individuals may experience certain side effects, including diarrhoea.

CBD, or cannabidiol, is a natural compound found in the hemp part of the cannabis plant. Unlike its famous cousin THC, CBD is non-psychoactive, meaning it won't get you high. It interacts with the body's endocannabinoid system, a network of receptors that helps regulate various functions, including digestion.

However, CBD can influence digestion, and that influence can go both ways. While diarrhoea is a possibility for some, others might experience constipation. The key factors seem to be dosage and individual sensitivities.

Throughout this article, we'll explore why some folks experience diarrhoea after taking CBD oil, how to choose a product that minimises adverse effects, and how to find your sweet spot for optimal gut health.

Let's dive in.

Understanding CBD Oil and Your Digestive Tract

Let's first take a look at how CBD interacts with the digestive system as this will help us understand why CBD oil products may cause diarrhoea.

When you ingest CBD orally (in the form of capsules, tinctures, or edibles), it enters your digestive tract. From there, it travels to the liver, where enzymes break down the compound into smaller particles that the body can absorb.

Once absorbed, CBD enters the bloodstream and interacts with receptors in the endocannabinoid system. Cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) are found throughout the body, including in the digestive tract.

These receptors help regulate digestion, inflammation, and pain. This is why some people use CBD to try and alleviate digestive issues like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD).

However, just like any medication or supplement, CBD can have an individualised effect on different people. Let's take a closer look at why some individuals might experience diarrhoea with CBD.

Why You Might Experience Diarrhoea After Taking CBD Oil

So, why do some people experience diarrhoea after taking CBD oil? There are a few potential reasons:

Dosage Matters

High doses of CBD oil can disrupt your digestive health. This is especially true for new users. Think of your gut as a finely tuned ecosystem. Introducing a new compound, even a natural one like CBD, can upset its delicate balance.

If you're new to CBD, start with a small dosage and gradually increase it until you find your optimal dose. This method allows your body to adjust slowly, minimising the chances of digestive discomfort.

Individual Sensitivities

As mentioned earlier, everyone's body is unique. Some people may be more sensitive to certain compounds than others. In the case of CBD, this could be due to pre-existing digestive issues or food sensitivities.

If you have a history of gastrointestinal problems or are sensitive to certain foods, paying attention to how your body responds when taking CBD oil is essential. If you experience any adverse effects like diarrhoea or abdominal pain, it may be a sign that your gut isn't responding well to the CBD.

Carrier Oil Considerations

Many CBD products are suspended in carrier oils like MCT oil for easier consumption. While generally safe, some carrier oils have a laxative effect. This means they can speed up food movement through your gastrointestinal tract, potentially leading to diarrhoea in some individuals.

If you suspect that the carrier oil could be causing your digestive discomfort, look for products with a different carrier oil. CBD One uses hempseed oil as our carrier oil which is high in omega 6 and 3, so you'll enjoy some health benefits just from the hemp oil alone!

Understanding Constipation With CBD Oil

On the flip side, some people may experience constipation after taking CBD oil. This can be due to several reasons:

• Opposing Effects: Interestingly, CBD oil may also have anti-diarrhoeal properties. Remember how we discussed CBD potentially influencing gut motility? In some individuals, this influence might slow things down a bit too much, leading to constipation instead of diarrhoea.
• Dosage is Key (Again): As with diarrhoea, proper dosage is crucial to avoiding constipation as a CBD oil side effect. Starting low and gradually increasing allows your body to adjust to CBD's effects on gut motility, finding a happy medium that promotes healthy bowel movements.
• Hydration Matters: This might seem like a general health tip, but staying hydrated is especially important when taking CBD oil. Dehydration can worsen constipation, so drink plenty of water throughout the day to keep your digestive system functioning smoothly.

Choosing the Right CBD Oil to Minimise Negative Effects

So, how can you avoid experiencing adverse effects of CBD on your digestive health? Here are a few tips:

• Listen to Your Body: As mentioned earlier, everyone's body reacts differently to CBD. Pay attention to how your body responds and adjust your dosage or product accordingly.
• Start Low, Go Slow: It can't be stressed enough - start with a low dosage of CBD and gradually increase until you find the right amount for you. This approach minimises the chances of adverse effects on your digestive system.
• Choose High-Quality CBD Products: The CBD industry is still largely unregulated, and there are many low-quality CBD oil products on the market. To minimise your risk of experiencing digestive discomfort, choose high quality CBD products like those that you can find at CBD One.
• Check for Ingredients That May Cause Laxative Effects: As mentioned earlier, some carrier oils, like MCT oil, might have a laxative effect. If you're prone to diarrhoea, consider CBD oil with a carrier oil known to be gentler on the digestive system, like hemp seed oil or olive oil. You can also explore water-soluble CBD that bypass the need for a carrier oil altogether.

Personal Experiences and Studies on CBD Oil and Digestive Health

While there is still much research to be done on CBD and its effects on digestive health, some studies have shown promising results. For instance:

• Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD): Observational and prospective studies suggest that cannabinoids, including CBD, improve IBD symptoms. Although small clinical trials haven't shown significant effects on objective inflammatory findings, recent research in ulcerative colitis indicates potential endoscopic improvement.
• Intestinal Motility: CBD's impact on psychological disorders, neurological disorders, cancers, and gastrointestinal diseases has been studied. Its fundamental biological activity, including effects on intestinal motility, is a subject of ongoing research.
• Gastroparesis: Research on CBD's use in treating gastroparesis shows that it might act through peripheral cannabinoid type 2 receptors to reduce sensation and inflammation. It also has central effects that reduce anxiety.
• Functional Dyspepsia: A study acknowledges the potential benefit of CBD in treating patients with functional dyspepsia and normal gastric emptying, although the study size was limited. Future trials are projected based on these findings.
• General Use of CBD Oils: The first CBD-based drug, Epidiolex, was approved by the US FDA in June 2018 for treatment.

These studies and experiences highlight the diverse potential of CBD in addressing various digestive issues, although more comprehensive research is needed to fully understand its effects and optimal use. As always, consult with your medical professional before incorporating CBD into your wellness routine.

Finding Your Perfect CBD Balance

Let's recap what we've learned about CBD oil, diarrhoea, and constipation. While CBD oil is generally well-tolerated, high doses or individual sensitivity might lead to diarrhoea. Conversely, CBD's influence on gut motility can also cause constipation in some users.

The good news? CBD oil can potentially support a healthy digestive system when used correctly. By starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it, you can find your personal sweet spot and minimise the risk of any digestive discomfort.

Ready to explore the possibilities? Head over to our range of high-quality CBD oils to discover the perfect product for your needs. Remember, start low and go slow to find your ideal CBD balance and unlock the potential benefits for your gut health.

Addressing Misconceptions and FAQs

Can CBD Help With Inflammatory Bowel Diseases?

CBD has shown potential in improving symptoms of inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). The anti-inflammatory properties of CBD may help reduce inflammation and discomfort associated with IBD. However, it's important to note that more research is needed before making any definitive claims about the effectiveness of CBD for IBD. It's always best to seek professional medical advice when considering using CBD for any health condition.

Will CBD Oil Give Me an Upset Stomach?

While CBD oil is generally well-tolerated, it can cause side effects in some individuals. These side effects may include nausea, diarrhoea, and changes in appetite. However, using high-quality CBD oil and starting with a low dosage can help minimise the risk of experiencing these symptoms.

Can I Take CBD Oil With Other Medications?

If you are currently taking any medication, it's essential to consult with your doctor before incorporating CBD oil into your routine. CBD can interact with some medications and may affect their effectiveness. Your doctor will be able to advise on the best course of action for your specific situation.

Is CBD Oil Safe for Regular Use?

As long as you use high-quality CBD oil and follow recommended doses, it is generally safe for regular use. However, if you start to experience any negative side effects or discomfort, it's crucial to consult your doctor and adjust your dosage as needed.