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Does the Type of Food and Timing of Intake Affect CBD Efficacy?

9 May 2024

Did you know that the type of food and the timing of when you take CBD can influence its effectiveness? Research shows that taking CBD along with certain types of food can make it even more effective. In this blog, you will learn which foods pair well with CBD and how to get the most out of it.

The Bioavailability of CBD

CBD oil is a popular supplement that many people use for sleep issues, stress, anxiety, and pain. It is very versatile in its use. However, what most people don’t realize is that food has a significant impact on the effectiveness of CBD (cannabidiol). What you eat can enhance the effects of CBD.

This is related to the bioavailability of CBD. Bioavailability refers to the ability of a substance to be absorbed and used by the body. When you take CBD orally, digestion influences how much can be absorbed and how effective the substance can be.

Various factors, including your diet, metabolism, and digestive enzymes, partially determine how well cannabidiol can work in your body. These factors alter the structure and concentration of this natural substance before it can be absorbed into the bloodstream.

The Influence of Food on CBD Efficacy

Certain types of food can affect the bioavailability of CBD. In a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Pharmacology (2013), scientists investigated this effect. They aimed to determine how food influences the bioavailability of a single dose of THC and CBD. Twelve healthy men participated in the study, using a mouth spray to take the substance.

The study found that bioavailability was four times higher when the spray was taken after a meal compared to on an empty stomach. Naturally, the question arises whether it matters what kind of food you take with CBD.

The Best Types of Food to Combine with CBD

To get the most out of your CBD dose, there are various types of food you should consider taking with it.

Foods Rich in Terpenes

Scientists have discovered that taking foods rich in terpenes along with CBD oil can be beneficial. Terpenes can enhance the effects of CBD through the entourage effect. Terpenes are compounds produced by plants to protect against herbivores and diseases but also attract important insects.

Examples of foods rich in terpenes include turmeric, pepper, mango, cinnamon, olives, and basil. They can improve the bioavailability of CBD. These substances also bring health benefits for humans.

Combine CBD with Foods Rich in Healthy Fats

Normally, the bioavailability of CBD is low. However, cannabidiol is fat-soluble. This forms a protective layer around the molecules, allowing more active substances to safely enter the bloodstream. Therefore, it’s a good idea to choose foods rich in healthy fats when taking your CBD dose.

Examples of foods high in healthy fats include coconut, fatty fish (such as salmon, herring, and trout), eggs, avocados, and full-fat yogurt.

The Benefits of Combining CBD with Healthy Food

Besides enhancing the effects of CBD by combining it with certain types of food, choosing a healthy diet, in general, is wise. This brings several benefits:

Supporting Gut Flora

Your gut flora plays a crucial role in your health. These gut bacteria are essential not only for good digestion but also for your immunity and the absorption of CBD. A diet rich in fiber (in fruits and vegetables) supports a diverse gut flora, thereby improving the bioavailability of CBD.

Caring for Your Endocannabinoid System

CBD works through the endocannabinoid system (ECS). This network of receptors spreads throughout the body and helps maintain physical and mental balance. Choosing a healthy and nutritious diet can help the ECS function properly. Important nutrients include antioxidants, which combat oxidative stress. When your ECS functions well, CBD can also work effectively.

Improved Absorption

Healthy food, rich in minerals, vitamins, fibers, and antioxidants, provides your body with the building blocks necessary for digestion and the absorption of substances into cells. When you eat healthily, CBD can also be effectively absorbed and distributed through the bloodstream.

For all these reasons, CBD edibles are also a great alternative. The CBD dose is already incorporated into a tasty snack or drink. You can choose CBD chocolate or CBD candy tablets.

Timing Your CBD Intake

As you can see, what you eat can significantly influence the effectiveness of CBD. But the timing of your CBD intake is also important. It’s better not to take CBD on an empty stomach. Cannabidiol is less effective this way, as it is poorly absorbed, and some of the dose is lost during digestion.

If there is food in the stomach, CBD can be better absorbed, and the effects can last longer. As the food is digested, CBD is slowly released into the bloodstream. Additionally, taking this natural substance after a meal can be beneficial if you experience stomach or intestinal discomfort when taking it on an empty stomach.

Interested in using CBD? Browse our shop. Various products are available, such as CBD edibles (which can enhance the absorption of CBD) and CBD tablets.