Beyond CBD: How to Support your Endocannabinoid System

Part of the reason scientists know CBD works in the body is because of how it reacts with the endocannabinoid system.

This system plays a major part in keeping you healthy. It needs a little TLC to do that. So, how do you support it? CBD’s one way, that’s for sure, but is it the only way?

The Endocannabinoid System

The endocannabinoid system (ES) is known as a “master regulatory system.” It’s found all throughout your body, and it works to bring about balance. That’s why it’s associated with things like stress, pain, and anxiety.

We now know that there are two main endocannabinoids:

  • Anandamide (AEA)
  • 2-arachidonoylglyerol (2-AG)

The ES has receptors throughout your body for each of these endocannabinoids to interact with. The two main types are:

  • CB1 receptors (found mainly in the central nervous system)
  • CB2 receptors (found mainly in the peripheral nervous system)
endocannabinoid system

When an endocannabinoid talks to a receptor, it signals your ES and helps keep the body it tip-top shape.

More on this: Want to know more about how CBD works? Check this out.

How to Support your Endocannabinoid System

When you support the ES, with things like high-quality CBD, you can help bring about that balance.

But there are other ways to support it too – ways to compliment that daily dose of oil.

So, what are they? We’re glad you asked.

1. Increase electrolytes

You know you should boost electrolytes when you exercise. You’ve probably heard they’re good for a hangover too. Electrolytes like potassium, calcium, and magnesium, help keep hydration levels in check and work to regulate your body’s pH levels. But they’re great for the ES too. Calcium and potassium both boost CB1 transport and activity, so grab a banana and down a glass of milk.

2. Get some sun

UVA rays from the sun promote nitric oxide activity in the body. Nitric oxide boosts the number and expression of CB1 receptors. So, get outside and soak up the sun.

3. Move

And no, we don’t mean houses. Moving your body can increase the levels of your natural CB1 activator, anandamide, indoor body. Exercise also increases your CB1 receptor sensitivity. So get moving.

4. De-stress

When you’re stressed, your body produces the stress hormone cortisol. When the body recognizes this, it takes action and reduces CB1 receptors in the brain. This, in turn, leads to lower cannabinoid function. Meditate, do some yoga, and have a long soak in a warm bath.

endocannabinoid system

5. Favor fat

Every day we seem to hear something new that breaks down the belief that fat is bad. And that’s true to for your ES. Omega-3 fatty acids are necessary for the normal functioning of your brain and nervous system. Research also shows they increase the synthesis of endocannabinoids and upregulate both CB1 and CB2 receptors.

6. Spend some time between the sheets

There are plenty of good reasons to have some fun with your partner. And the health of your ES is one of them. Male and female sex hormones stimulate and support the endocannabinoid system, and testosterone and estradiol have been shown to upregulate CB1 receptors. The hormone estradiol also increases the release of the anandamide.

7. Indulge in dark chocolate

You’ve probably heard that dark chocolate can help reduce stress, fight oxidative stress, and lower blood pressure. What you may not have heard is that it also contains anandamide.

8. Drink your coffee

That daily cup of Joe is a good way to stimulate and support your endocannabinoid system. Drinking coffee on the regular can enhance the activation of CB1 receptors. 

Show your ES a Little TLC

Want to keep everything balanced in your body? These can help you do that. And, they’re not bad habits to adopt for overall health anyways.

Of course, don’t forget about the CBD. It’s our favorite way to show the endocannabinoid system a little TLC!