Sleep is a fundamental aspect of human health and wellbeing, yet many people in the UK struggle with sleep issues.
The impact of poor sleep can be far-reaching, affecting physical health, mental health, and overall quality of life.
Sleep issues can have a significant impact on mental health. A lack of sleep can contribute to symptoms of anxiety and depression, and people with mental health conditions are more likely to experience sleep problems. According to a survey by the Mental Health Foundation, nearly one-third of adults in the UK have experienced sleep problems as a result of stress, anxiety, or depression.
The impact of sleep issues on quality of life can be significant. Poor sleep can lead to daytime fatigue, irritability, and difficulty concentrating, which can affect work, relationships, and overall wellbeing. According to the Sleep Council, 15% of adults in the UK say that their sleep problems have a significant impact on their quality of life.
Despite the prevalence and impact of sleep issues, many people in the UK do not seek help. This may be due to a lack of awareness about available treatments or a reluctance to discuss sleep issues with healthcare providers. However, there are a variety of treatments available for sleep issues, including lifestyle changes, medications and supplements.
Can CBD help with sleep?
CBD, or cannabidiol, is a compound found in the cannabis plant that has been gaining popularity in recent years for its potential therapeutic benefits. CBD can be taken in a variety of ways, including Oils, Capsules, Teas and Gummies.
CBD works with our Endocannabinoid System (ECS), which is your very own wellbeing engine. This internal regulatory system targets and interacts with specific cannabinoids in your body, to help manage and balance essential functions, including stress, mood, appetite and sleep.
CBD may help with sleep in several ways. First, studies have found that CBD has a calming effect on the body, which can promote relaxation and reduce anxiety. When the body is in a relaxed state, it can be easier to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Second, CBD may help regulate the body's sleep-wake cycle. This cycle is controlled by a group of nerve cells in the brain called the suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN). The SCN receives input from the eyes, which helps regulate the release of hormones like melatonin that are involved in sleep. CBD may help regulate this process, leading to a more consistent sleep-wake cycle.
Third, CBD may help reduce pain and inflammation, which can also contribute to sleep issues. Pain and inflammation can make it difficult to get comfortable and stay asleep, so reducing these symptoms can improve sleep quality.
Finally, the effects of CBD may offer relief for some of the underlying conditions that can cause sleep issues, such as anxiety, depression and stress. By offering relief from these conditions, CBD can indirectly improve sleep quality.
Do people in the UK use CBD for sleep?
CBD research is a field that’s moving fast, so we’re finding out more and more about the pros and cons of this compound all the time. For now, there’re no official guidelines from the UK’s NHS, NICE or the US FDA for how to use CBD for sleep.
According to the latest YouGov survey, in the UK, CBD Oil is the most popular CBD product people use. A research study into the reasons people use CBD found that CBD oil was the most popular form people turned to to help with insomnia or sleep problems.
In this study, 48% of people taking CBD for sleep reported that it helped them to fall asleep quicker. Close to 40% said it helped them to sleep better.
Overall, CBD shows promise as a natural treatment for sleep disorders. However, more research is needed to fully understand its effects on sleep and to determine the optimal dosages and delivery methods. If you're considering using CBD to improve your sleep, it's important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine if it's right for you.
