According to clinical evidence, CBD can up insulin production, lower cholesterol, and reduce blood sugar. That indicates the usefulness of cannabidiol in the management of diabetes. So yes, you can take CBD if you are diabetic. But the FDA is yet to approve the compound as medicine for any condition apart from epilepsy.

That position may change as more research is conducted. If you have or are at risk of diabetes, below is what you need to know about the condition and how CBD can help. 

Quick take: Is CBD safe for diabetic?

• THC and CBD may have uses in the treatment of type 2 diabetes.
• CBD is not a cure for diabetes, but it can help manage pain and other symptoms.
• CBD is non psychoactive; thus, users do not experience a high.
• Hemp derived CBD is legal across the country. 
• More research is needed. 

What is CBD, and is it safe to use if you are diabetic?

CBD is one of the over 400 compounds and chemicals present in cannabis and hemp plants. Unlike THC, one of the two main constituents. CBD is not psychoactive and will thus not cause a high. 

In the US, authorities classify marijuana as any product that contains at least 0.3% THC. Derivatives of cannabis and hemp that contain THC levels lower than that are legal in the majority of states. Hemp derived CBD is legal on the federal level. But it is advisable to check local regulations or country laws before you cross any border with cannabis products or extracts.

Remember, cannabis is a schedule 1 substance and may lead to legal problems if caught selling or importing without a license or medical marijuana card. 

In short, according to the FDA and World Health Organization, pure CBD products are safe for consumption and are not addictive/habit-forming.

Can you take CBD if you are diabetic?

It is worth noting that there currently is no cure for diabetes. Consequently, if you are on medication, do not abandon use. It is also in your best interest to consult with a physician before using CBD or other supplements. 

The good news is CBD rarely causes adverse side effects or interact with other medicines.

CBD is not a cure for diabetes, instead what it can do is help manage the condition. 

According to the Center for Disease Control, the symptoms of diabetes include:

• Very dry skin. Topical application of CBD cream will not only heal and prevent dry skin, but can also treat a variety of skin conditions, including eczema and psoriasis. One option is to add CBD oil to your beauty products. 
• Tingling hands and feet. Sublingual or oral consumption of CBD can relieve tingling in patients who suffer from diabetes and multiple sclerosis. That is according to patient reports.
• Fatigue. At low doses CBD has stimulant effects, and it can improve the patient’s quality of life.
• Faster healing. Diabetes slows down the skin healing process. Topical application of CBD may hasten healing.
• Appetite regulation. Unlike THC, CBD does not cause munchies/increase appetite. It acts as an appetite controller. The compound also calms the digestive tract. 

Diabetes, depending on the type, may also cause nausea, vomiting, and chronic stomach pain. CBD can help manage these symptoms. 

 Type 2 diabetes takes longer to develop, so if you are at risk, or if it ‘runs in the family, you should do the following.

Add CBD to your routine. Cannabidiol can help manage chronic pain, nausea, tingling, dry skin, and other symptoms of diabetes without the risk of dependence. But that is one part of a larger strategy. You should also:

• Listen to your doctor. Your doctor will advise you on how to keep your blood sugar level within the recommended range. So, if you are advised not to consume some products, you should obey your doctors’ instructions or get a second opinion.
• Know how foods affect your blood sugar levels. You do not have to abandon the foods you love, instead focus on counting portions, do not consume more than is necessary, try to eat a balanced diet, and coordinate medications and meals. You should also avoid taking too much caffeine and sugar.
• Exercise. The more you exercise, the stronger your body gets. Also, exercise causes your body to use sugar/glucose for energy, keeping your sugar levels low. 

CBD and diabetes: what does the research show?

Multiple human and animal studies have concluded that CBD can (1) lower cholesterol/turn “bad fat” into “good fat.” (2) CBD can increase insulin production. (3) CBD can reduce high blood sugar. There is also overwhelming anecdotal evidence that supports these claims. 

CBD and diabetes: what we know

• Diabetes is an inflammatory condition. CBD can relieve pain caused by neuropathy, and it can prevent nerve inflammation by stimulating receptors in the human brain
• CBD can improve circulation, reduce blood pressure, and keep blood vessels open.
• The topical application of CBD can relieve chronic and neuropathic pain.
•  Clinical studies have not shown an improvement in blood sugar or insulin levels in type 2 diabetes.
•  CBD may suppress immune responses and increase blood levels when combined with medications, including blood thinners. 

Can you take CBD if you have type 2 diabetes?

If you have type 2 diabetes, you should be aware that according to a  study published in the American Diabetes Journal claims that -THCV/tetrahydrocannabinol, can significantly reduce fasting blood pressure, improve insulin production, and raise adiponectin. Adiponectin is a protein that regulates blood sugar in the human body. 

The study’s conclusion was, quote:

“THCV could represent a new therapeutic agent in glycemic control in subjects with type 2 diabetes.”

THC, CBD, and cannabinoid benefits for diabetics. 

THC is the main psychoactive compound in cannabis, meaning that consumption will cause a high. But, according to multiple reputable sources, cannabis and its extracts may benefit diabetic users in the following ways.

• Can relieve chronic gastrointestinal pain and cramping.
• Cannabis can relieve muscle cramps.
• Marijuana can lower the user’s blood pressure -encouraging healthy circulation.
• Cannabis can lower arterial inflammation

Apart from that, marijuana, through interactions with the brain, may impact the user’s mood, memory, appetite, coordination, and pain. 

 The studies conflict, meaning that there is a need for more research on the effects of cannabis on diabetes. 

Are there any side effects of using CBD if you have diabetes?

On its own, CBD is non-addictive, and it has medical properties. However, when combined with THC, the consequences could be: a faster heart rate, problems breathing if smoked or vaped, slower reaction time, advisable not to use it while driving or operating dangerous machinery, and younger users may develop problems with learning, memory, and concentration, making it advisable to start using marijuana once you turn 21.

Is marijuana legal in the US?

It depends on state law. In some states, it is legal to use marijuana recreationally or as medicine, and in others, you need a medical marijuana card to gain access. In Canada, weed is legal, and you may grow up to 4 plants in your home depending on provincial regulations. 

Safety

• Avoid back-alley products because they may contain additives that may worsen your condition.
• It is good practice to consult with a physician before using marijuana or any of its extracts if you have a condition, including diabetes. 
• CBD is a complementary therapy for diabetes. 
• CBD can help you lose weight and lower the risk of developing diabetes. 
• Do not take CBD or THC if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, according to the FDA. 
• CBD can lower blood pressure, so avoid it if you have hypotension. 

Product recommendations: what type of CBD should I use if I have diabetes?

CBD comes in a variety of products, including tinctures, oil, gummies, and other consumables. You may use CBD oil for topical application, ingestion, or sublingual placement.