Host: Deanna Minich, PhD, CNS, FACN, IFMCP
Guest: Ann Shippy, MD
Cannabidiol (CBD) seems to be everywhere these days, but how much of the available information is based on research, and how much is just hype? In this discussion, Deanna Minich, PhD, CNS, FACN, IFMCP queries her guest, Ann Shippy, MD, about the legality surrounding CBD, about the questions every patient or practitioner should ask of the product manufacturer, and about the benefits of CBD for a variety of conditions.
Dr. Shippy begins by explaining the difference between hemp and marijuana and the amount of THC that is present in each before moving into the potential effects CBD (a phytocannabinoid from hemp) can have on sleep, inflammation, anxiety, the limbic system, and hormone response. She further explains that these benefits are seen due to the effects that are exerted by the endocannabinoid system (ECS) based on the interaction with the various phytocannabinoids that are present in hemp oil.
With so many CBD products on the market, how can practitioners know what to recommend to their patients? Dr. Shippy explains how the cannabis plant absorbs toxins from the soil, including heavy metals, pesticides, and mycotoxins. This is why it’s important to research the quality of a CBD product in order to avoid adding to patients’ toxicity load. Dr. Shippy shares what to look for and what questions to ask of a manufacturer, including:
- Does the product contain safe amounts of toxins such as arsenic, cadmium, glyphosate, pesticides, and mercury?
- Does the product contain less than 0.3% THC?
- What is the mold and/or bacteria content?
Drs. Minich and Shippy further talk about using other anti-inflammatory agents such as fish oil and resveratrol and eating a well-balanced diet in conjunction with CBD to reduce and manage pain and inflammation.
Dr. Shippy concludes the discussion by sharing her protocol for sleep disturbances, including the role of light in circadian rhythms; avoiding electronics, food, and water too close to bedtime; and other natural options to induce rest, such as magnesium and CBD.
This Metagenics Institute LIVE broadcast took place live December 6, 2019 on the Metagenics Institute Facebook page.
