// HEALTH+WELLNESS //
Access for Athletes Cannabis use is gaining traction among pro athletes. But why? By Patricia Miller
Most people don’t think of professional athletes as cannabis enthusiasts. Athletes value motivation, self-discipline, and health. People who use cannabis are often thought to hold a very different set of values. But as the research around cannabis expands, and people become more comfortable discussing their use of the plant, these stereotypes are crumbling. The two worlds of athleticism and cannabis use can coincide and, in fact, often do. But until recently, that was a taboo concept for professional athletes to endorse. In 2004, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) created a list of prohibited substances for professional athletes. WADA banned all forms of cannabinoids until 2018 when cannabidiol (CBD) was removed from the list. WADA noted CBD is being researched for “a variety of medical purposes,” but did not say why they removed the substance from the list. Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) remains a banned substance during competition.
where CBD could be a valuable tool. McCartney looked at several CBD studies conducted with rats. Consistently, researchers found mid- to high-doses of CBD encourage the body to create anti-inflammatory cytokines. The cytokines reduce inflammation and therefore reduce pain. It’s worth noting that research on ibuprofen (an anti-inflammatory) has shown it can actually reduce inflammation too much — limiting the effectiveness of exercise in building new muscle. Whether CBD could have this same effect requires further research. Former Detroit Pistons All-Star, Isiah Thomas, feels there is a place for cannabis in professional sports.
more studies with a particular focus on dosing, noting that often a moderate amount of CBD is more helpful than a high or low dose. Certificates of analysis for CBD products are essential for ensuring effective dosing.
As a result, several major sporting institutions have since changed their policies around cannabis. Some say it has therapeutic potential; others say it’s okay because it doesn’t affect athletic performance. But what does the research say? Athletic Recovery Pain is a fact of life for elite athletes, and it’s something trainers spend a lot of time and effort trying to reduce. Fewer aches and pains lead to more training, faster recovery, and better overall performance. Muscle soreness is caused by the breakdown of muscle fibers, which creates an inflammatory response. According to research by Danielle McCartney published in the Journal Sports Medicine – Open, a bit of inflammation actually helps the muscle repair. Still, too much can delay recovery and cause prolonged pain. This is 98
Cannabis & Tech Today // Summer 2021
Danielle McCartney, postdoctoral research associate at the University of Sydney.
McCartney also noted studies with rats have shown CBD can lessen the effects of a concussion. Concussed rats treated with CBD show less aggression, depression, and pain. Human trials have linked CBD to reductions in pain, though to a lesser extent than THC. Cannabinoids can also relieve stress, which could be helpful for athletes with performance anxiety. All of McCartney’s research calls for
Creating Access The growing body of research around cannabis is forcing its way into public knowledge. Policymakers in the world of professional sports are taking notice. The National Basketball League (NBA), the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), the National Football League (NFL), the National Football League Players Association (NFLPA), and the Ultimate Fighting Championship recently changed their policies to be more forgiving of cannabis use. Scoring Points with the NBA The NBA and NBPA are not conducting randomized tests for cannabis during the 202021 season. NBA spokesperson Mike Bass said in a statement, “Due to the unusual circumstances in conjunction with the pandemic, we have agreed with the NBPA to… focus our random
