CBD drinks, the best of both worlds when it comes to vibes and wellness. Calming, flavourful, and non-intoxicating, this sounds like the ideal alternative to caffeine, alcohol, or sugary drinks. Or is it?
Turns out, while CBD is generally considered safe for many adults, it is not suitable for everyone. For some users, the best approach is to avoid CBD drinks entirely. But don’t worry, some only need to consult a healthcare professional before consumption.
If you’re unsure whether these beverages pose any risk to your health, this post is for you. Ahead is a detailed overview of who should not drink CBD drinks, and why. We’ll also delve into what to consider if you’re unsure. Let’s jump right in.
What Are CBD Drinks?
CBD-infused drinks are meant to promote relaxation, balance, and calm. This might not work the same for everyone. And sometimes, the effects are subtle and not guaranteed. But if one doesn’t work for you in terms of taste and preference, you can always choose from the various available options.
Mostly, CBD drinks come in;
- Sparkling waters and sodas
- Herbal teas
- Smoothies and shakes
- Alcohol-alternative beverages
Yes, these beverages are non-intoxicating, but they interact with the body differently than typical drinks. This is why certain people may need to be cautious, or avoid them altogether.
1. Children and Teenagers
This one is quite obvious. CBD drinks are not intended for users under 18 (21 in some regions), due to several reasons. First, the teens and young adults’ developing brain are sensitive to cannabinoids, even the non-intoxicating ones. Besides, the effects of CBD on minors are not well-studied yet. And then, of course, legal restrictions generally prohibit sales to minors.
If you’re a parent or guardian, ensure your teens are not messing around with these beverages. Explain to them that these are adult products only, as teenagers experimenting with CBD drinks may face unpredictable effects. Plus, there could be potential interactions with medications or substances.
2. Pregnant and Breastfeeding Individuals
Sorry soon-to-be and new moms… But pregnant or breastfeeding moms are strongly advised to avoid taking CBD-infused drinks. Although CBD itself is considered natural and safe, scientific research on its effects during pregnancy or lactation is still extremely limited. However, there are some potential concerns.
The first is the potential for unknown effects on fetal development. Possible interference with infant growth and development through breast milk is also a serious concern. This ties back to the concerns about effects on young, developing brains – as mentioned above. There are also worries over the uncertain long-term safety for mother and child.
Therefore, healthcare providers typically recommend avoiding CBD products during pregnancy and when breastfeeding. This can help minimize any potential risk.
3. Individuals Taking Certain Medications
Albeit largely harmless, CBD can still interact with some medications. In turn, this may affect how your body processes these drugs. And as a result, this can increase the risk of side effects, or reduce the medication’s effectiveness. For instance, if you’re taking these medications, you may need to reduce or steer clear of CBD beverages;
- Blood thinners, such as warfarin
- Anti-seizure medications
- Some antidepressants
- Certain heart or blood pressure medications
Remember, even mild interactions can have significant effects. So, if you’re taking any prescription drugs, at least consult your healthcare provider before taking that calming sip.
4. People with Liver or Kidney Conditions
CBD is metabolized by the liver. Therefore, in some cases, heavy or long-term use can affect your liver function. If you have any existing liver or kidney problems, it’s best to avoid CBD drinks. And if you can’t resist the urge, at least consume them only under strict medical supervision. Here are some of the potential issues that necessitate exercising caution.
- Potential strain on liver enzymes
- Difficulty processing some medications
- Potential for effects on kidney function over time
Responsible drinking is a big part of the culture around CBD drinks. So, if you have any of these conditions, close monitoring by a medical professional is essential. Your health comes first.
5. Individuals with Low Blood Pressure or Heart Conditions
Some studies indicate that CBD can temporarily lower blood pressure. Now, that’s no-good news if you already have low blood pressure. Well, this effect is usually mild in most healthy adults, but it surely can pose risks if you have any of these conditions;
- Chronic low blood pressure
- Any heart conditions that require stable blood pressure
- A history of fainting or dizziness
CBD drinks are generally considered mild. But if you have any cardiovascular concerns, always exercise caution. And in extreme cases, avoid the drinks altogether.
Other People at Risk – Allergies or Sensitivities
These are not significantly risky, but it’s still wise to be cautious regardless if you are;
- Allergic or have sensitivities to flavours, botanicals, fruit extracts, sweeteners, or herbal blends. Most CBD drinks contain these.
- Prone to medication or sensitivity to substances – with effects like nausea, digestive discomfort, drowsiness, or fatigue
To Wrap Up…
If you fall into any of the categories above, the safest approach is not to consume CBD-infused drinks. But if you’re an adult without medical or legal concerns, here are some steps to assess if these drinks are for you. Consult a healthcare professional, especially if you’re taking any medications or have a chronic condition.
Read the ingredients label carefully, know exactly how much CBD (and what else) is present. Then start small, especially if it’s your first time, even if you are healthy. Listen to your body – monitor your energy, digestion, and mood. Lastly, avoid mixing with alcohol or other substances, at least until you understand how your body reacts.
Ultimately, even small, well-formulated CBD drinks can affect people differently. Therefore, caution is always warranted.