Should You Mix CBD Oil and Caffeine?

One health trend that is growing in popularity is adding CBD oil to your morning coffee for increased energy levels without the over-stimulatory effects that caffeine can have on some people.

Caffeine is a stimulant of the central nervous system, the most noticeable effect of caffeine is a nearly immediate increase in alertness. In people predisposed to anxiety disorders, it is this effect, combined with an increase in heart rate and blood pressure that can result in jitters, anxiety and even panic attacks. Too much caffeine can also leave the drinker with headaches and nausea.

Perhaps one of the reasons that CBD and caffeine have become such a popular pairing is that the side-effects of caffeine consumption are reduced drastically or even cancelled by the interaction with CBD oil.

Testimonials have been reported by those who use both caffeine and CBD oil that the combination can remove the jittery edge that a caffeine hit often brings. The reduction of other caffeine side effects such as anxiety and the feeling of nausea have also been reported as benefits of CBD oil. Many people swear by CBD oil and caffeine as a way to achieve a crash-free level of focus and energy to help them give the extra push during their workouts.

Let’s look at how CBD works on our energy levels.

Our bodies internally produce endocannabinoids, which are fatty acid by-products that serve many bodily functions. Our endocannabinoid system, which contains cannabinoid receptors as well as endocannabinoids, plays a key role in how the body expends energy.

CBD has also been shown to improve protein synthesis in the hypothalamus, which has an important role in the management of alertness; this is because the compound also interacts indirectly with cannabinoid receptors to affect mechanisms in a subtle way.

CBD may help increase alertness by acting indirectly upon serotonin receptors to improve mood, focus and energy levels.  The relationship between CBD and serotonin is one of the key beneficial properties of CBD, which demonstrates its anti-anxiety and antidepressant effects. This can be vastly beneficial to people that struggle with mood or anxiety disorders, and have symptoms that lead to a lack of motivation in exercise and everyday life. 

 Furthermore, low serotonin levels are associated with fatigue and lethargy, so higher levels of serotonin means that you will naturally feel more energized. Studies also show that when taken in smaller doses, CBD may promote energy and the maintenance of homeostasis within the body.

It is still unclear the exact reaction between CBD and caffeine. It seems at low doses CBD is a stimulant and in higher doses it can cause sedation.

* CBD may be the right option for some people, but it’s important to note that these products have not been evaluated by the FDA (Food and Drug Administration), and they are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. If you find that you seriously struggle to maintain normal energy levels, consult with a physician about other possible causes for your fatigue. Additionally, you may want to talk to your doctor before trying a new supplement if you take prescription medications or have a pre-existing medical condition.