4 proven benefits of CBD (plus 5 of the best CBD products to try)

Ashley Balmaceda — Wed, 10 Mar 2021 17:36:17 +0000

Cannabidiol (CBD) products are becoming more popular as users rave about them. And a research into CBD continues unfolding, we continue to learn more every day about the benefits of CBD oil. Due to its connection to cannabis, many people write off CBD as just another drug. But CBD is not a drug. We’ll explain just what CBD is and what its benefits are so you can decide for yourself if CBD is right for you. And if it is, we also have recommendations for some of the best CBD products on the market.

WHAT IS CBD?

Cannabidiol comes from the marijuana plant. It is one of the two best-known compounds in marijuana, with the other being tetrahydrocannabidol, better known as THC. A common misconception about CBD is that it gets you high, which is false. Many medical professionals do not consider it a psychoactive.

THC, not CBD, is the compound in marijuana that gives you the high feeling. But, according to Dr. Donald Levy, medical director at the Osher Clinical Center for Integrative Medicine at Brigham and Women’s Hospital and assistant clinical professor of medicine at Harvard Medical School, CBD “does change your consciousness. You feel mellow, experience less, pain, and are more comfortable.” It is important to note that some CBD products do include THC.

WHAT AILMENTS CAN CBD HELP TREAT?

PAIN

Pain relief is perhaps CBD’s most well known benefit. Science has shown that components in marijuana, including CBD, can help alleviate pain. CBD can also relieve nerve pain. A study in the Journal of Experimental Medicine revealed that rats given CBD orally and through injection experienced less inflammation and less neuropathic pain.

ANXIETY

CBD is often linked with easing anxiety. Pharmaceutical anxiety medication can come with side effects like sexual dysfunction, insomnia and agitation. For many, CBD is an easily accessible alternative that it is not associated with those symptoms. In fact, CBD doesn’t help only adults. In many cases CBD helps children with post- traumatic stress disorder – under safe supervision – to treat anxiety and insomnia.

ACNE

If you’re looking for a natural way to treat your acne, CBD could be the thing for you. Acne has many different causes including bacteria, underlying inflammation, and an overproduction of an oily secretion called sebum. CBD can in certain cases treat acne because of its “anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to reduce sebum production” in the sebaceous glands.

SEIZURES

Research shows that CBD can help manage seizures. In 2018, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved a prescription form of CBD called Epidolex. Some patients over the age of 2 who have Lennox-Gastaut syndrome or Dravet syndrome, two rare forms of epilepsy, use the oral solution to treat it. Epidolex uses quality-grade CBD oil, which is different from CBD oil without FDA approval

WHAT ARE SOME GOOD CBD PRODUCTS?

CBD products come in many forms. CBD most commonly sells as oil, but it also comes in its flower form, gummies, drinks and more. So what are our favorites? Here are some of the best CBD products on the market:

OHHO CBD PREROLLS

You can find CBD prerolls at oHHo in packs of 3, 5 or 10. Verena von Pfetten, owner of the brand Gossamer, which sells its own CBD products, says her go-to prerolls are these from oHHo. According to her, the flower form of CBD “has the highest level of bioavailability.” This means that when you inhale or smoke CBD, a smaller amount will give you the same affect as consuming a larger amount of CBD in another form.

VERMA FARMS CBD OIL

Verma Farms is no stranger to award-winning CBD oils. This oil was ranked number one by both Forbes and Entrepreneur Media. Verma Farms calls it, “the highest praised CBD product on the market,” and promises to deliver all the benefits of CBD with this oil. Plus, this oil contains zero THC and is made from all vegan and natural ingredients.

SOCIAL REST CBD BODY LOTION

CBD lotion is a great way to soothe your body. And Social Rest’s CBD body lotion is the perfect choice. That’s because each bottle contains 300mg of CBD extract. Other ingredients include magnesium, arnica, shea butter, coconut and argon oil. The lotion also contains essential oils like lavender, chamomile and bergamot, designed to put your mind in the right headspace.

MOON MOTHER HEMP COMPANY CBD MASSAGE OIL

Moon Mother Hemp Company offers a wide range of products, including some of the best CBD massage oil. They make this oil from full spectrum organic hemp and only two other ingredients: lavender essential oil and jojoba oil. And on top of their ingredients being 100% organic, Moon Mother’s hemp extract comes from a family farm that uses sustainable farming practices. This oil claims to sooth the skin and provide anti-inflammatory practices to the muscles and joints.

WEED SPORT CBD MUSCLE RUB

This topical CBD balm from Weed Sport is made to “target the wear and tear from physical activity.” Ingredients include sustainably grown hemp flowers and several organic essential oils. In each jar, you get about 200mg of whole plant industrial hemp-derived. Many customers explain that this balm is a must-have. One reviewer called it, “The only thing to use after training.” And another happy customer said, “It actually makes my arthritic hands and knees feel better! And if my head hurts or my neck hurts I rub it on and it actually works! I’m a fan!”

CBD has benefits that can help with physical and mental health. With so many CBD products to choose from, be cautious and safe. If you are struggling to figure out if CBD is for you, feel free to ask your physician for guidance.

5 Probiotics of 2017

admin — Fri, 01 Dec 2017 01:24:04 +0000

Probiotics are essentially microorganisms found in some foods and supplements. These organisms are more commonly known as yeast and bacteria. They can help improve overall health and digestive function. The digestive tract houses more than 500 kinds of bacteria, both good and bad, in order to maintain a balance for healthy digestion and bowel movements. Having a healthy digestive tract benefits the immune system as well, which can help ward off illnesses. Nowadays, many people are choosing probiotics supplements to promote regularity and wellness.

* Individual results may vary.

1) ProBioCare Probiotic 80 Billion

ProBioCare Probiotic 80 Billion is a veggie capsule supplement that retails for $39.99 (30 capsules). It is allergen-free, acid resistant, and is suggested to be taken once a day. This product aims to support digestive health and a strong immune system.

The ingredients found in Probiotic 80 Billion include a Proprietary Bifidobacterium blend (72 billion per serving), a Proprietary Lactobacilli blend (8 billion per serving), and a Prebiotic blend (50 milligrams). These ingredients work to replenish the beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract.

2) Natren Healthy Trinity

Natren Healthy Trinity is another type of probiotic capsule formula. A bottle of 60 capsules retails for $109.95. This supplement is stated to be free of gluten and dairy. The purpose of this probiotic is to maximize digestion, encourage regularity, and benefit the entire digestive tract with good bacteria.

Bifidobacterium Bifidum Super Strain (20 billion CFU), Lactobacillus Acidophillus Super Strain NAS (5 billion CFU), and Lactobacillus Bulgaricus Super Strain LB-51 (5 billion CFU) are used in Natren Healthy Trinity capsules.

3) Ultimate Flora 50 billion

Ultimate Flora 50 billion is marketed as a critical care probiotic. It sells for a list price of $39.99 (30 capsules), and aims to relieve digestive discomfort and restore balance to the digestive system. It is free of gluten and dairy. This probiotic is suggested to be taken once each day, and it contains 12 probiotic strains.

Ultimate Flora RTS contains 50 billion live cultures in each capsule, and these include Lactobacillus Paracasei, Bifidobacterium Lactis, Bifidobacterium Longum, Lactobacillus Plantarum, and Bifidobacterium Infantis.

4) Garden of Life RAW Probiotics Colon Care

Garden of Life RAW Probiotics Colon Care provides 50 billion CFU, which includes a Colon Care Blend, a Colon Transit Support Enzyme Blend (50mg), and an Eastern European RAW Fruit & Veggie Blend (45mg). This product is free of GMOs, soy, preservatives, and gluten.

The cost of RAW Probiotics Colon Care is $41.95 (30 vegetarian capsules). The primary purpose of this supplement is to encourage regularity, and assist with comfortable bowel movements. It is suggested to be taken once a day.

5) American Health Probiotic Acidophilus Liquid

American Health Probiotic Acidophilus Liquid is an alternative to capsule probiotics. This supplement is available in strawberry, blueberry, and plain flavors, and you simply take two tablespoons after each meal. The website suggests it may promote intestinal health, nutrient absorption, and a healthy immune system.

The cost of this product is $13.49 (16 fluid ounces). It is made without any GMOs, gluten, eggs, yeast, soy, artificial flavors, wheat, and preservatives. Probiotic Acidophilus Liquid contains a probiotic blend of 20 billion active cultures. These include Lactobacillus Acidophillus, Lactobacillus Thermophilus, and Lactobacillus Bulgaricus.

Top 5 Things You Can Do To Lose Weight

admin — Mon, 14 Aug 2017 01:42:30 +0000

Weight is something people of all ages struggle with. However, as you get older, weight loss becomes more and more challenging. This is because the metabolism slows down, and shedding excess pounds of fat requires more effort. Weight loss is not only important for self-confidence reasons, but is also necessary for overall health and wellness. Sadly, carrying around too much body fat can lead to type 2 diabetes, joint damage, heart disease, and even cancer. Fortunately there are changes you can make to encourage real weight loss, and keep those pounds off for good. Here are the top five things you can do to lose weight.

1. Workout

Regular exercise is a great way to drop excess weight and keep the body fit. By combining cardiovascular exercise with strength training, you optimize your workouts. Shoot for three to five 30-minute exercise sessions each week. If you do not want to spend money on a monthly gym membership, consider purchasing a treadmill or an elliptical machine for your home. There are also plenty of simple and inexpensive fitness DVDs available that combine strength training and cardio for a complete workout in a short period of time. Regular workouts will elevate the metabolism, increase energy levels, and get your heart rate up.

2. Diet Programs

There is a plethora of diet programs at your disposal. The reality is many of them work, if you are willing to commit. The key is to find the right diet program that suits your needs and weight loss goals. Many diets require that you cut calories, because the fewer calories you consume, the fewer calories your body has to store as fat. Try cutting your daily caloric intake to 1,200 calories. Make sure the foods you consume are rich in vitamins and minerals. Think fresh fruits and vegetables, whole gains, beans and legumes, and lean meats like poultry and fish. Drinking ample amounts of water will also stave off hunger, and assist with weight loss.

3. Hire a Trainer

Some people need a little extra nudge when it comes to weight loss. If you just can’t seem to motivate yourself, try hiring a personal trainer. These fitness experts are usually available at local gyms, and some will actually come to your home for regular sessions if needed. The right personal trainer will keep you motivated and make your workout sessions count. If you can afford it, hiring a trainer is worth it.

4. Take a Supplement

Don’t overlook weight loss supplements and meal-replacement products. Most of these supplements, shakes, powders, and bars are conveniently available online, and many can be found in local supercenters and drugstores. Over-the-counter weight loss products contain natural ingredients like Green Tea, Raspberry Ketones, Hoodia Gordonii Extract, Green Coffee Bean, and Garcinia Cambogia to aid with weight management. The right supplement can help boost the metabolism, increase energy levels, and suppress appetite. There are also protein shakes and bars available that can be used as low-calorie meal replacements. This is a great way to cut out some calories, sugar, and fat.

5. Keep Moving

Although this may sound simple, it’s not. Many people have trouble staying mobile. In fact, these days most people work at desks and computers, which means less movement and physical activity on a daily basis. So, anytime you can, get up and walk around. Try taking the stairs instead of the elevator. Ride a bicycle to work if it is nearby. Do some simple exercises while watching television, such as air squats, jumping jacks, push ups, or simply jogging in place. Everything counts!

Top 5 Protein Powders

admin — Wed, 14 Dec 2016 02:17:15 +0000

Millions of men and women rely on protein powders to help them build lean muscle mass, stave off hunger, elevate energy levels, and reduce calorie intake to promote weight loss. However, finding the right protein powder can take time. After all, there are literally dozens of these products available online and in local supplement shops. Some factors to consider are grams of protein per serving, how much sugar is used, is the powder free of dairy or soy, and how much fat and cholesterol is found in the protein powder. Many people are also concerned with artificial sweeteners. To save you some time, we’ve rounded up the top five protein powders of 2014.

1) Orgain Organic Protein Plant Based Powder

Orgain Organic Protein Plant Based Powder is available in creamy chocolate fudge and sweet vanilla bean flavors. This supplement is available in a 2.02-pound jug for a retail price of $39.99. The official website indicates this powder is USDA certified organic.

Orgain Organic Protein Powder features 21 grams of plant-based protein per serving, as well as five grams of fiber, 150 calories, three grams of carbohydrates, one gram of sugar, and no fat or cholesterol. This protein powder is free of GMOs, dairy, lactose, soy, and gluten.

2) Optimum Nutrition Natural 100% Whey Gold Standard

Optimum Nutrition Natural 100% Whey Gold Standard provides 24 grams of protein per serving. This supplement is also free of artificial colors, flavors and sweeteners. It is available in chocolate, vanilla, and strawberry flavors. A two-pound jug sells for $29.99 (a five-pound jug is also available for $57.99).

Optimum Nutrition Natural 100% Whey contains five grams of carbohydrates, 30 milligrams of cholesterol, three grams of sugar, 130 calories, and one gram of fat per serving. This formula offers five grams of BCAAs, as well as a significant amount of Glutaminc Acid and Glutamine to aid muscles.

3) Jay Rob Whey Protein

Jay Rob Whey Protein comes in flavors like chocolate, vanilla, strawberry, pina colada, and even unflavored. This supplement is made with whey protein isolate that is 100 percent rBGH-free. It does not contain any Stevia, Aspartame, cholesterol, fat, sugar, gluten, artificial flavors, GMOs, casein, or artificial colors.

Jay Rob Whey Protein Powder provides 25 grams of protein per serving, in addition to 390 milligrams of Potassium. Each serving contains 110 calories. A 30-day refund policy. As for the price, this powder is available for $23.75 (11 servings). It is also sold in larger bags.

4) Vega Sport Performance Protein

Vega Sport Performance Protein is another top choice for 2014. One scoop of this powder offers 25 grams of protein, 5,000 milligrams of BCAAs, and only 134 calories. It also contains 0.7 grams of fat, and 2.7 grams of sugar. Since this is a vegan protein supplement, it does not contain cholesterol. Vanilla, berry, and chocolate flavors are available.

Vega Sport Performance Protein is free of gluten, and is made from protein sources such as green peas, whole grain brown rice, spirulina, and alfalfa. As for the cost, a 29.2-ounce jug sells for $49.99. The official website offers free shipping, but no refund.

5) Pro JYM Blended Protein

Pro JYM Blended Protein Supplement is made with casein, whey, and egg proteins. Each serving provides 24 grams of protein, one gram of fiber, 300 milligrams of Potassium, and 400 milligrams of Calcium. Only 0.5 grams of fat, five milligrams of cholesterol, seven grams of carbohydrates, two grams of sugar, and 160 calories are found in each serving of this protein powder.

Pro JYM Blended Protein Supplement can be purchased in a two-pound ($31.92) or four-pound bag ($53.98). The flavors available are vanilla, chocolate cookie crunch, s’mores, and cookies & cream.

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