What you need to know about cannabis and your gut

It is becoming increasingly popular to learn more about our gut health. It breaks down the food you eat and absorbs nutrients that support your body’s functions. The medical community is beginning to recognize its importance and increase research. Data suggests that the gut microbiome can influence every organ in the body.

From probiotics to health-specific diets, the stomach (and its contents) is receiving more attention than ever before. And CBD is receiving increasing attention for its gut health benefits.

The CBD Gut Link

Dr. Aimee Gould Shunney, a naturopathic doctor, believes in the power of good gut bacteria and believes CBD offers benefits that are not yet fully understood. In a recent interview, she shared: “CBD is an immune modulator and a powerful anti-inflammatory agent. Additionally, it helps balance the ECS (endo-cannabinoid system) and therefore has enormous potential to positively impact a variety of digestive issues.”

RELATED: Cannabis and Gut Health: Does It Boost Your Gut Bacteria?

Dr. Shunney went one step further and showed the connection between stress, anxiety and the body’s digestive system: “Stress puts a strain on our gut, and stress management is crucial to keeping symptoms at bay. CBD has been shown to promote stress resistance and reduce anxiety, contributing to its important role in gut function.”

Illustration by MEHAU KULYK/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY/Getty Images

Studies support Dr. Shunney’s claims, among others 2017 US National Library of Medicine Research Examining the often misunderstood condition of inflammatory bowel disease and the potential of cannabinoids. The study found that cannabinoids show promise in combating intestinal disorders (such as irritable bowel syndrome and Crohn’s disease) and that further research is needed.

Medications can also damage the intestines

Another study from the Netherlands reported that once drugs are deemed safe, they could pose a risk to the gut microbiome by eliminating good bacteria and posing a risk of developing infections and obesity.

Lead researcher Arnau Vich Vila shared: “We already know that the effectiveness and toxicity of certain drugs are influenced by the bacterial composition of the gastrointestinal tract and that intestinal flora is linked to several health conditions.” Vich Vila continued: “Our work highlights the importance of considering the role of the gut microbiota in the development of treatments, and also points to new hypotheses that could explain certain side effects associated with medication use.”

RELATED: How effective is marijuana in treating irritable bowel syndrome?

In fact, the study published in October and presented at UGE Week in Spain found that more than half of commonly used medications affect the gut and pose a risk. The list of medications with the greatest risk included:

• Metformin, which is used for diabetes
• Antibiotics are often used for bacterial infections
• Laxatives used to treat constipation
• Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) used to treat dyspepsia

(A full list of study results can be found here.)

Since gut health often determines the well-being of the human body as a whole, there is an interesting discussion about whether cannabis or CBD oil could protect the body from the effects of other medications. Although more research is needed to understand the role of cannabinoids on the body and their effects on certain medications, it is important to discuss this with your care team.