Weed and Workouts: Hype or Help?
As a Registered Dietitian, I’m always interested in the relationship between diet and health. So, when the New York Times released a recent article about the potential benefits of marijuana consumption for exercise performance, I was intrigued to investigate their claims.
Marijuana, i.e., weed, has been used for medicinal purposes for thousands of years due to its therapeutic effects. Our brains naturally produce endogenous cannabinoids, such as anandamide, to send chemical messages between nerve cells throughout the nervous system. Cannabinoids affect brain areas that influence pleasure, memory, thinking, concentration, movement, coordination, sensory awareness and time perception. Interestingly, the active components in weed (e.g., THC and CBD) have similar chemical structures to endogenous cannabinoids and, therefore, have the ability to attach to the same receptors in the brain to produce similar physiological effects. Hence, medical marijuana is often recommended to improve sleep, appetite, chronic pain, anxiety, circulation and digestive issues associated with a myriad of health conditions.
But can weed truly improve your workout?
Well, marijuana can certainly help ease anxiety, pain and muscle tightness – producing an overall calming effect for many people – however, a systematic review has revealed that weed typically impairs exercise performance. Results showed that cannabis consumption prior to exercise induced unfavorable effects, including reduced endurance, increased heart and breathing rate, and changes in balance.
So while weed may help some folks show up to the gym with less anxiety and get through their workouts with less pain, it’s generally advised to address those symptoms by trying other methods first, such as behavioral practices (e.g., meditation and therapy), over-the-counter medications (e.g., ibuprofen), or supplements when indicated.
From a nutrition standpoint, here are some foods that can produce a calming effect if they’re consumed often to help make exercise easier and more enjoyable over time:
Foods rich in certain vitamins and minerals, such as:
Magnesium (e.g., dark chocolate, leafy greens, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains)
Zinc (e.g., oysters, cashews, liver, beef, and egg yolks)
B vitamins (e.g., avocado and almonds)
Tart cherry juice after an evening workout
Turmeric
Ginger
Note: some of the foods listed above may need to be consumed in moderation or omitted entirely depending on your medical history. If you join my Nutrition and Wellbeing Program for Women, I’ll help you plan an adequate eating regimen to support your exercise goals and nutritional needs.
Other benefits of joining my program include:
One-on-one virtual coaching
Weekly check-ins
Individualized meal planning support
Counseling on supplements and herbal remedies
Judgment-free guidance as you adjust your lifestyle and eating habits
