Tossing and turning all night leaves you drained the next day. Between work stress, family obligations, and the constant distraction of technology, it’s no wonder so many struggle to wind down at night. Unfortunately, many over-the-counter sleep aids leave people feeling groggy or have unpleasant side effects. That has many seeking natural alternatives like CBD. CBD is short for cannabidiol, a compound extracted from cannabis plants. Unlike THC, the cannabinoid best known for the marijuana “high”, CBD is entirely non-intoxicating. It works within the body’s endocannabinoid system to promote balance and improve issues like pain, anxiety, inflammation, and more. With CBD now available in easy-to-take forms like gummies, millions are discovering it also gently promotes better sleep without any high or impairment.
Problem of poor sleep
Before diving into using CBD gummies for sleep, it’s helpful to understand why so many struggle to get adequate rest in the first place. According to the CDC, at least 70 million Americans suffer from chronic sleep problems. Unfortunately, poor sleep takes a big toll both mentally and physically. Over the long term, it leads to worsened memory and concentration, weaker immunity, and increased risk for serious conditions like obesity, diabetes, heart disease, and depression according to research. No wonder why finding solutions for better sleep is a top health priority for medical professionals.
Many turn to over-the-counter sleep medications in desperation. The problem is these come with side effects like next-day drowsiness. They can also be habit-forming, lose effectiveness over time, and interfere with natural sleep cycles. That has both doctors and patients seeking more natural options for improving sleep.
CBD gummies for sleep – Highlights
- CBD may help sleep/wake cycle regulation
- Alleviates pain, anxiety, and stress disrupting sleep
- Precise gummy dosing for ease of use
- Better absorption than many CBD formats
- Delicious flavors and portable convenience
Why CBD? Overview of the sleep research
While more clinical research is still needed, early CBD and sleep studies show promising results. For example, a 2021 study published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine gave CBD to over 1,500 people struggling with poor sleep related to chronic pain symptoms, anxiety, and other issues. After 30 days, around 80% of participants reported improved sleep scores. Additionally, a 2020 critical review of cbd for sleepstudies concluded CBD has potential as a “safe therapeutic option for insomnia and possibly other sleep difficulties.” While researchers aren’t exactly sure how CBD promotes better sleep, a few theories stand out.
It’s believed CBD interacts with endocannabinoid receptors in the nervous system, which help moderate sleep/wake cycles. CBD is also thought to influence neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA, which calm the nervous system down for rest. For many who struggle with falling asleep due to underlying issues like chronic pain, anxiety, and stress, CBD alleviates these problems indirectly leading to better sleep as a side effect.
Setting yourself up for CBD sleep success
While CBD alone can lull many people to sleep easier, creating an overall bedtime routine sets you up for success. Here are some lifestyle changes that pair perfectly with CBD sleep gummies:
- Stick to consistent bed/wake times 7 days a week
- Power down screens 1 hour before bed
- Establish a relaxing pre-bed wind-down ritual
- Optimize sleep environment – cool, clean, and quiet
- Avoid large meals, excess liquids, and caffeine/alcohol before bed
Consider keeping a sleep diary to identify bad habits sabotaging your sleep then correct them over several weeks. For example, limit daytime naps to 30 minutes, reduce stimulating activities at night, and avoid screens/big meals right before bed. Then leverage CBD gummies to support your healthy sleep routine.
