Functional gastrointestinal disorders are pretty common. Almost half of all gastrointestinal issues remain poorly diagnosed. Such patients keep visiting primary care clinics for issues like bloating, stomach pain, and other issues. Among functional gastrointestinal issues, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is particularly common.
Gastroparesis, characterized by delayed gastric emptying, poses significant challenges for individuals striving to maintain optimal digestive health.
In recent years, CBD (cannabidiol) has garnered attention for its potential therapeutic effects, prompting curiosity about its utility in managing or using it when experiencing gastroparesis symptoms.
As a physician, I have noticed that people often use natural remedies for gut health issues. So, it is vital to know how CBD acts, and is it safe for those with gastroparesis.
Gastroparesis disrupts the normal movement of muscles in the stomach, impairing the process of digestion and causing symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, bloating, and abdominal pain. This condition may arise from various underlying causes, including diabetes, neurological disorders, or idiopathic factors.(1)
The hallmark feature of gastroparesis is delayed gastric emptying, leading to prolonged retention of food in the stomach and exacerbating gastrointestinal distress.
CBD is not likely to cause gastroparesis. However, it may have a role in relieving some of its signs and symptoms.
Before discussing the topic in detail, remember that CBD is not a treatment for gastroparesis. Therefore, people experiencing such issues must always consult a doctor before using CBD.
CBD, a non-psychoactive cannabinoid derived from the cannabis plant, has anti-inflammatory, analgesic, and anxiolytic properties. While research on the use of CBD for gastroparesis remains limited, some evidence and preclinical studies suggest that CBD may modulate gastrointestinal function and alleviate associated symptoms. One of the small studies in 44 patients found that it might provide some symptomatic relief from the condition.(2)
It may reduce nausea, vomiting, and other symptoms. Further, remember that CBD may also help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. Thus, some of its benefits are indirect. Hence, even if it does not help with gastroparesis, it may still provide some relief due to its relaxing effect.
Despite its potential therapeutic benefits, CBD can cause some side effects, which can vary depending on individual factors such as dosage, mode of administration, and underlying health conditions. Common side effects associated with CBD use may include dry mouth, dizziness, changes in appetite, and gastrointestinal discomfort. In the context of gastroparesis, individuals should exercise caution when using CBD, as gastrointestinal symptoms may be exacerbated in some cases.
Moreover, CBD may interact with certain medications commonly prescribed for gastroparesis management, such as prokinetic agents or antiemetics. These interactions can potentiate adverse effects or alter the pharmacokinetics of medications, necessitating close monitoring by healthcare providers.
So, can CBD oil cause gastrointestinal problems? Well, sometimes, it might make things worse. Can CBD oil cause gastritis? Probably not. CBD oil gastritis is uncommon.
In some sensitive individuals, CBD oil upset stomach may occur, but that is rare and mainly occurs on overdosing.
When considering CBD as a complementary therapy for gastroparesis, individuals should prioritize informed decision-making and consult with healthcare professionals to develop a tailored treatment plan. Here are some practical tips for incorporating CBD into gastroparesis management:
I must say that CBD oil is not a treatment for medical conditions, but it may help relieve some symptoms of gastric distress. However, in some people, it may worsen things. Some people say that CBD oil makes me sick, while others say the same about CBD vape pen.
Can CBD vape oil make you nauseous? Yes, it is one of the most common side effects of CBD vaping. However, this issue is seen in beginners. This may also occur due to the wrong vaping technique, which results in gastric distress. So, when living with gastroparesis, CBD oil or capsules might be a better option, though CBD vaping may also be good for experienced users.
This article was authored by:Â Dr. Preet Pal Singh Bhinder.
This article was peer-reviewed by Dr M Mansoor Siddique (PhD). Dr Siddique has over eight years of experience working with CBD and CBD products.
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