Getting older comes with an entirely new set of struggles, including needing to care more about your health. People over the age of 50 become more susceptible to many health conditions, ranging from manageable things like arthritis to more severe diseases like Alzheimer’s or dementia. Whether you have a current condition or not, it only becomes more critical to support your general wellbeing as you get older. 

Supplementing your body with CBD may be a great way to support your health regardless of your age, but it can be especially valuable for those over 50. 

Bone Health

Osteoporosis is a degenerative bone condition that dramatically increases the risk of fractures, —primarily hip or vertebrae— in older people. The bones become weakened, and fractures can render you immobile or on bedrest. The disease affects more than 53 million Americans every year, which means that more than half of the population over 50 is impacted by osteoporosis. 

In the Journal of Bone and Mineral Research, a study was published which supported the hypothesis that CBD could help with general bone strength. When the researchers administered CBD to rats with fractures, the size of the fracture decreased after four weeks. Also, the fracture healed much faster than the traditional six to eight-week period. While more human research needs to be done, the results thus far have been promising. 

Joint Health

Arthritis is a bone disease that affects the joints and can result in swelling, stiffness, pain or even eventual complete loss of mobility. While CBD has been widely used, it is believed that CBD could specifically support joint health. 

In a study done by the University of Kentucky in 2016, a topical CBD gel was administered to rats with arthritis. The results of the study showed that the rats experienced much less joint pain, and swelling surrounding the joints was reduced.

Prescription Medication Alternative

As you age past 50 and start to have more concerns about your general health, the amount of medication you need to take usually increases. While traditional pharmaceuticals have made incredible leaps in medicine and have a lot of positive effects, they also have a lot of negatives. Highly potent pharmaceutical drugs can sometimes have side effects just as troubling as the condition you’re trying to cure. 

If you don’t want to add any unnecessary chemicals to your body but still need some therapeutic effect for your symptoms, CBD may be a valuable option. CBD is naturally-occurring and has very few side effects. 

Brain Health

Alzheimer’s is a degenerative brain disease that damages memory and other vital cognitive functions. There is currently no cure, and it eventually leads to a complete lack of self-awareness and inability to function normally. 

According to recent studies, CBD can support overall brain health. CBD has also been shown to promote the development and growth of brain cells.

As with any other traditional pharmaceutical, be sure to consult with your physician before starting to take CBD or any other cannabis-based medication. When considering your dosage, always start slowly to be sure you can gauge your body’s reaction. Also, be sure to buy your cannabis products from a reputable company with third-party lab tests available to ensure you’re only taking CBD and not any harmful adjuncts.