The Best CBD Products for Sleep: Avoid Insomnia Now

To determine the best CBD products for sleep, let’s first take a look at how important sleep is. 

Our body needs rest and sleep just the same way it needs food, water, and air. Without them, your body just does not function properly.

• Sleep increases the sensory threshold (level of strength a stimulus must reach to be detected).

• During a night of deep sleep, humans secrete spurts of growth-hormone which is especially important for the young.

• Sleep is essential for a healthy immune system and aids in fighting disease and sickness.

• Sleep deprivation can lead to many problems such as loss of productivity, chronic health issues, mental health problems, and in some cases even death.

• Just about anyone can be at risk – people who work long hours such as caregivers, first responders, alcohol or drug abusers, those who suffer from stress and anxiety.

• Without sufficient sleep, you can have problems making decisions, interacting with others, dealing with your emotions or behavior, be inattentive, have mood swings such as suicidal tendencies, or experience depression.

• The older we get, the less sleep we need. For example, an infant will require 12 – 16 hours a day, a teenager might need 8 – 10 and an adult 7 – 8 hours.

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), 40% of people 40 – 59 report not getting enough sleep while 35% of adults don’t get at least 7 hours per day.

Are you one of these people?

Common Causes of Insomnia

• Too much caffeine or alcohol consumption
• Nicotine
• Work demands
• Social commitments
• Improper sleeping conditions such as exposure to unwanted light or noise
• Busy households
• Working longer hours
• Spending too much time on electronic gadgets
• Irregular sleep schedules
• Recreational drugs
• Side effects from certain medications

How to Get a Good Night’s Sleep

Now that we know how important a good night’s sleep is, let’s look at how to get one.

• Set a sleep schedule – It is important to set a routine and stick to it. That means going to bed and getting up the same time every day, even for weekends (if you really want that extra time, limit it to one hour).

• Keep electronics out of the bedroom – In fact, it is a good idea to avoid the bright light from the TV or computer before bed.

• Avoid strenuous exercise – just before bedtime.

• Avoid alcohol, caffeine, and nicotine – These are all stimulants; caffeine can affect you as long as 8 hours after consuming. Alcohol inhibits sleeping cycles and decreases REM (Rapid Eye Movement). Smoking can cause less deep sleep and cause nicotine withdrawal thus disturbing sleep.

• Be physically active during the day – Exercising, a brisk walk, etc.

• Create a peaceful environment – Cool, dark, quiet, good air quality, clean and tidy room.

• Drink a relaxing cup of tea – A herbal tea such as Chamomile has been used for centuries as a bedtime drink.

• Take a relaxing hot bath before bedtime –  a great way to end a stressful day.

• Take some CBD – A study published in April 2017 suggested CBD may possibly help with insomnia. It is believed CBD could help REM sleep behavior disorders, daytime sleepiness, and nightmares associated with PTSD, as well as improving the sleep of those in chronic pain.

Understanding Terms – Buying CBD Products for Sleep

Full Spectrum 

When we refer to “Full Spectrum” we mean the full or whole plant extract is included – CBD and all plant molecules, terpenes (combination of hydrogen and carbon) and cannabinoids, flavonoids and fatty acids found in the plant.

Broad Spectrum

Broad Spectrum, on the other hand, means everything in full spectrum is present minus THC (although at least one botanical expert disagrees with this). 

Unfortunately, some manufacturers use additional processing to remove the THC and by so doing can also remove the natural essence of the plant.

Terpenes

Terpenes are hydrocarbons produced by a variety of plants, particularly conifers and are responsible for the aroma and flavor of cannabis; they are the essential oils found in all plants. Terpenes can have a very powerful effect on our moods. Some common ones are Myrcene, A-Pinene, Linalool, Citronellol, Caryophyllene, Limonene, and Humulene.

CBD Isolate

CBD Isolate is CBD in its purest (99%) form and is colourless, odorless, and contains no other active ingredient. They can be consumed directly, or in in edibles and beverages.

MCT Oil

MCT (medium chain triglycerides) are triglycerides that contain two or three fatty acids and includes palm kernel oil and coconut oil.

Non-GMO

GMO stands for Genetically Modified Organisms that have been altered using genetic engineering techniques.

Bioavailability

Bioavailability is the percentage and rate of a drug or other substance which enters the circulation when introduced into the body and so is able to have an active effect.

Final Thoughts

We are going through some very difficult times right now, so relaxing and getting quality sleep is extremely important; whether you work outside the home, work from home, are stay-at-home parents, or a retiree – it doesn’t matter who you are. 

If you have any medical conditions or concerns, you should always check with your medical professional before taking any new product.

P.S. Don’t forget about your furry friends. Right now their world is also turned upside down and they may be experiencing some anxiety and stress.

FDA Disclosure

Have you tried CBD for sleep? Which product did you like the best?