The Potential of CBD in Treating Celiac Disease
Author: Ondrej Stovicek
Understanding Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is a lifelong autoimmune disorder caused by gluten intolerance. In individuals with celiac disease, the consumption of gluten triggers an autoimmune response that damages the lining of the small intestine. This damage leads to the destruction of the mucosal villi and microvilli, reducing the surface area of the small intestine and impairing its ability to digest and absorb nutrients. This impaired nutrient absorption can disrupt metabolism.
Symptoms of Celiac Disease
Typical symptoms of celiac disease include:
- Diarrhea
- Flatulence
- Abdominal cramps
- Weight loss
- Fatigue
Celiac disease can develop at any age, in both childhood and adulthood. The primary treatment for celiac disease is a strict gluten-free diet.
In addition to dietary adjustments, there are various gluten-free products available, such as hemp seeds, hemp protein, and BIO hemp seed oil.
How CBD Can Help Treat Celiac Disease
CBD (cannabidiol) is a natural compound derived from Cannabis Sativa. It is well-regarded for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to relieve pain, making it potentially effective in managing celiac disease symptoms.
CBD and the Endocannabinoid System
CBD interacts with the human endocannabinoid system, which includes endocannabinoids and cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) that regulate various bodily functions such as immunity, sleep, appetite, pain, and mood.
- CBD Oil: Broad-spectrum, no THC, available in various concentrations (10%, 5%, 2%)
Benefits of CBD for Celiac Disease
CBD can help alleviate several symptoms associated with celiac disease:
- Pain and Inflammation: CBD's anti-inflammatory properties can reduce inflammation and pain in the gastrointestinal tract.
- Appetite and Nausea: CBD can improve appetite and alleviate nausea, preventing anorexia and weight loss.
- Neuropathy Pain: CBD is an inhibitor of the FAAH enzyme, which may help relieve neuropathy pain due to its neuroprotective and neurodegenerative properties.
How to Use CBD for Celiac Disease
CBD can be consumed in various forms, including oil, capsules, and coconut oil. Vaporization is also an effective method, as it speeds up absorption and provides quick relief from symptoms.
- CBD Coconut Oil: Available in 170ml and 30ml
Dosing CBD Correctly
Determining the ideal dose of CBD requires considering factors such as the severity of the condition and individual tolerance. The gradual increase method, recommended by Leinow & Birnbaum in their book "CBD: A Patient's Guide to Medical Cannabis," involves starting with a low dose and gradually increasing it until symptoms improve.
Medical Research on CBD and Celiac Disease
Research on the effects of CBD in treating celiac disease is still limited. However, a 2011 study published in the scientific journal PLOS One by Italian researchers explored the potential of CBD to reduce intestinal inflammation in celiac disease, thereby preventing bowel damage.
While these initial findings are promising, further studies are necessary to fully understand the therapeutic effects of CBD on celiac disease symptoms.