CBD for Type 2 Diabetes: What Are the Benefits and Risks?


CBD is a non-psychoactive compound found in cannabis plants. It comes with a range of health benefits. The use of cannabidiol (CBD) serves as a potential treatment for type 2 diabetes. This area of research has garnered a lot of interest among medical experts and patients alike.

What is Type 2 Diabetes?

Type 2 diabetes is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by high levels of glucose (sugar) in the human bloodstream. It occurs when the body becomes resistant to insulin (a hormone that helps regulate blood sugar levels) or is unable to produce enough of it. This leads to the accumulation of glucose in our blood, which can cause damage to various organs and tissues in the body if left untreated. The major cause of type 2 diabetes can be lifestyle factors such as unhealthy diet, lack of physical activity, and obesity, and it usually develops gradually over timde. Symptoms may include increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue, blurred vision, and slow healing of wounds. The treatment for type 2 diabetes typically involves lifestyle changes, medication, and regular monitoring of blood sugar levels.

In our subsequent section, we will explore the benefits and risks associated with using CBD for type 2 diabetes.

Benefits of CBD for Type 2 Diabetes

CBD has been found to have several potential benefits for people with type 2 diabetes.

CBD reduces the risk of inflammation

CBD has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body, which is believed to play a significant role in the development of type 2 diabetes. Inflammation can cause damage to the insulin-producing cells in the pancreas, leading to insulin resistance and eventually, type 2 diabetes. CBD has been found to reduce the levels of pro- inflammatory cytokines, which may help to prevent this damage.

Insulin resistance

Insulin resistance is a key feature of type 2 diabetes, where the body's cells become resistant to the effects of insulin, causing an increase in blood sugar levels. CBD has been found to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce blood sugar levels, and so, reports suggest CBD may have potential benefits for humans with type 2 diabetes.

Neuroprotective properties of CBD

CBD has been found to have neuroprotective properties, which may be beneficial for people with type 2 diabetes. Diabetes is known to cause damage to the nerves, which can lead to a range of complications, including neuropathic pain. CBD protects the nerves against damage and reduces neuropathic pain gradually.

Risks of CBD for Type 2 Diabetes

While CBD has shown promising results, the risks of using CBD for type 2 diabetes are being studied too. Instances when CBD interacts with other medications, can lead to dangerous side effects. People with type 2 diabetes are often taking a range of medications to manage their diabetic condition, and adding CBD to the dosage may be risky.

CBD may also have side effects of its own.

  • While CBD is generally considered safe, some people may experience side effects such as fatigue, diarrhoea, and changes in appetite or weight.

  • When CBD interacts with other drugs, such as blood thinners, it increases the risk of bleeding.

Conclusion

CBD is amazingly promising as a potential treatment for people with type 2 diabetes, but more research is needed before it can be recommended as the go-to treatment option. While CBD has been shown to have potential benefits such as reducing inflammation, improving insulin sensitivity, and protecting nerves, the risks associated with CBD use are not yet fully understood. People with type 2 diabetes who are considering using CBD as a treatment option should consult their physician as the first step.

Someswar Pal
Someswar Pal

Studying Mtech/ AI- ML

Updated on: 24-Apr-2023

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