When people discover that almost all of the bodily functions are mediated by molecules similar to cannabis, they are frequently taken aback. Our bodies produce compounds that are strikingly similar to those in cannabis, and we use them to control immunity, appetite, brain activity, and skin health, among other things.
These molecules aren’t just lying around the body at random. They are a component of the endocannabinoid system (ECS), a vast network of receptors, enzymes, and signaling molecules.
Research indicates that cannabis possesses numerous therapeutic benefits. However, residing in San Francisco necessitates a medical marijuana card to legally access and consume cannabis.
Learn everything there is to know about this system, how the body uses it, and what happens when we don’t have enough endocannabinoids. Next, learn how to maintain optimal health by modulating your endocannabinoid system through diet, exercise, and herbal remedies.
What Is the Endocannabinoid System?
Within the human body, the endocannabinoid system acts as a universal regulator, maintaining the equilibrium of other biological systems.
There is a “sweet spot” within which every aspect of our physiology functions, and the endocannabinoid system makes sure that nothing deviates too much from this baseline. The system assists the body in sustaining appropriate levels of blood pressure, bone density, neurochemistry, appetite, and immune cell activity, among other things.
All in all, this amazing system maintains everything in balance. In the absence of this network’s regulatory power, the body would rapidly malfunction.
The endocannabinoid system functions within the body like a set of traffic lights. It functions as a green light when cells need encouragement to become more active and a red light when they become hyperactive. The scientific term for this balanced state is homeostasis.
What Causes Endocannabinoid Deficiency?
Low endocannabinoid tone and the ensuing deficiency are linked to a number of factors. Genetics, diet, and lifestyle choices may all contribute to the condition.
Genetic Factors
First, let’s look at the genetic components.
- Lack of Cannabinoid Receptors
Endocannabinoids alter a wide variety of cell types by binding to cannabinoid receptors. A large number of these signaling molecules have nowhere to bind if an individual does not have cannabinoid receptors. Researchers studying ECS deficiency think that genetics can affect how many receptors are present in a particular body area.
- Overabundance of Metabolic Enzymes
Certain enzymes produce endocannabinoids, while other enzymes degrade them. Reduced endocannabinoid tone is likely to occur in those who overproduce the enzymes that break down endocannabinoids.
- Insufficient Levels of Endocannabinoids
Genetics and precursor materials are the two main factors that influence the production of endocannabinoids. Dietary fatty acids are the source of these molecules, and a diet low in these nutrients may cause the body to produce fewer cannabinoids. Some people may naturally produce fewer endocannabinoids than others due to genetic alterations.
How Can Your Endocannabinoid System Be Strengthened?
There are times when it seems like everything in modern life is working against us. We all experience the negative effects of sedentary lifestyles, certain foods, inadequate sleep, and elevated stress levels on our endocannabinoid system.
Fortunately, there are numerous strategies to maintain the balance of the endocannabinoid system. You can maintain the health of this network by making small daily changes to your diet, drinking herbal tea, and exercising.
- Reduce Stress
It is only reasonable to control this harmful input since stress has the potential to tax the endocannabinoid system. Stress management techniques like meditation have several advantages for both the body and mind. In fact, the practice’s ability to improve tone and help regulate the endocannabinoid system is being investigated.
In addition to their ability to lessen the negative effects of stress, acupuncture and massage may also help to increase levels of the neurotransmitter endocannabinoid.
- Exercise
Humans evolved with mobility in mind. Exercises such as walking and running support lung and heart health, and lifting weights helps us gain and preserve lean muscle mass, which lengthens our lives. The endocannabinoid system is activated and the endocannabinoid tone is raised by exercise.
Anandamide levels may rise as a result of running, which supports the euphoric “runner’s high” and improves mood.
Researchers are looking into whether weightlifting has a comparable impact. Then, each shoulder press, deadlift, and bicep curl could increase the activity of the endocannabinoid system.
- Diet
Increasing endocannabinoid tone may be facilitated by eating the right foods. Examine the following foods and nutrients; some act as building blocks for endocannabinoids, while others bind directly to our receptor sites.
-Omega Fatty Acids
We cannot produce endocannabinoids in our bodies without omega fatty acids! We need a careful balance between omega-3 and omega-6, roughly half of the former and half of the latter. See the top resources listed below:
Omega-6:
- Pumpkin seeds
- Walnuts
- Eggs
- Hemp seeds
- Sunflower seeds
Omega-3:
- Fish
- Oysters
- Caviar
- Chia seeds
- Cod liver oil
- Eggs
- Flax seeds
-Chocolate
For many of us, chocolate is just a sugary, sweet treat that you find on store shelves. The fruit of the tropical cocoa plant is actually where real chocolate originates. It’s interesting to note that this fruit contains anandamide, a human endocannabinoid.
-Flavonoids
Numerous foods contain flavonoids, which are antioxidants. From blueberries to beetroot, they are the source of many fruits and vegetables’ vibrant colors. Cannabinoid receptor levels may be raised by flavonoids like quercetin. Foods high in the compound consist of:
- Honey
- Cherries
- Grapes
- Onions
- Citrus fruits
- Raspberries
- Apples
- Leafy green vegetables
-Prebiotics
In our stomach, trillions of helpful microorganisms live. This community is closely related to the endocannabinoid system, and some of them have the ability to increase CB2 receptor expression. Feed these foods high in fiber to your microbes to keep them happy and healthy:
- Onion
- Leeks
- Burdock
- Garlic
- Artichokes
-Caryophyllene
Both terpene and cannabinoid status are attributed to beta-caryophyllene. Many cannabis strains have earthy and peppery notes that are derived from this molecule. It may aid in calming the body by directly binding to the CB2 receptor.
High-caryophyllene foods and herbs include:
- Hops
- Cannabis
- Lemon balm
- Black pepper
What Part Does CBD Play in the Deficit of Endocannabinoids?
The relationship between and impact of CBD on endocannabinoid tone is another area of research. The non-psychotropic compound fights deficiency and increases endocannabinoid activity in two main ways.
Receptor activation: TRPV1 receptor, a component of the enlarged endocannabinoid system, appears to be fully activated by CBD, despite the fact that it does not bind to CB1 or CB2. By doing this, the cannabinoid may help to calm the body and lessen harmful signals coming from the nervous system.
Raise anandamide levels: By inhibiting the enzymes FAAH and other enzymes that break down anandamide less frequently, CBD can help prevent deficiencies.
Other phytocannabinoids
Numerous cannabinoids are produced by cannabis. Though their exact mode of action is still being studied, many of them bind to cannabinoid receptors and could eventually aid in the fight against endocannabinoid deficiency. Among them are:
- THCV
- CBG
- CBC
- CBDV
If considering medicinal cannabis use in San Francisco, obtaining a medical marijuana card is crucial. You can obtain it by consulting a marijuana doctor or apply for your medical marijuana card online.
Also Read: Affordable Wellness: Medical Marijuana Options for Hawaii’s Residents
