Learn how High Intensity Workouts (HIIT) can have the opposite effect you want, and how CBD can help with the problem.
The goal of exercise, as many of us understand, is to build muscle, reduce fat, and improve our overall fitness. In other words, when we put so much effort into something like exercise, we expect a result. While it is true that exercise is the key to building muscle, there are some things that can prevent us from getting the results we want. One of the things that might interfere is the hormone cortisol, aka “the stress hormone”. The problem with high intensity workouts (HIIT) is that they cause cortisol levels to increase, which prevents our muscles from growing.
What is cortisol?
Cortisol is secreted by the adrenal gland and fluctuates throughout the day. Any type of stressful activity leads to an increase in these levels, whether it is physical activity or an emotional situation. There are many bodily functions influenced by the hormone, including the “fight or flight” response triggered by fear. This hormone can also contribute to feelings of anxiety and depression.
Although the hormone is essential for controlling blood sugar levels, regulating metabolism, and many other body functions. It can also be harmful in several ways. Too much of this hormone has been linked to a number of cancers as well as some mental disorders. It has also been linked to high blood pressure, increased blood sugar levels, and many other potentially harmful health effects. It is important that your cortisol levels are well balanced for your brain and body to function properly.
It is a hormone that plays a key role in the body's response to stress. And that is often measured in research as an indicator of stress. Cortisol plays a vital role in the functioning of the body. Cortisol is secreted by the adrenal glands and is involved in the following functions and more:
- Appropriate glucose metabolism
- Regulation of blood pressure
- Release of insulin to maintain blood sugar
- Immune function
- Inflammatory response
Cortisol and high intensity workouts (HIIT)
The problem with very stressful workouts is that they cause the release of cortisol. As a catabolic hormone, cortisol reduces protein synthesis and stops tissue growth. It's almost the opposite of other hormones like testosterone, insulin, and growth hormone.
Essentially, the hormone breaks down your muscles and slows their growth. Whether it is heavy lifting, run intensely or even from overheating, your cortisol levels can rise dramatically, decreasing the effectiveness of your high intensity workout (HIIT). Higher and longer levels of cortisol in the bloodstream (like those associated with chronic stress) have been shown to have negative effects, such as:
- Decreased cognitive performance
- Suppression of thyroid function
- Blood sugar imbalances such as hyperglycemia
- Decreased bone density
- Decreased muscle tissue
- High blood pressure
- Decreased immunity and inflammatory responses in the body, slower healing of wounds and other health consequences.
- Increased abdominal fat, which is associated with a greater amount of health problems than fat deposited in other parts of the body.
Managing cortisol with hemp oil
One way to counter the effects of cortisol is to use CBD as an effective anti-catabolic substance. Several studies have shown the therapeutic benefits of CBD in the treatment of a number of problems related to stress and anxiety. It actually works to prevent cortisol from being released. While CBD can be obtained through the use of several products, including marijuana, it should be noted that most of these products will not help your exercise regimen. The THC in marijuana can actually increase your stress and anxiety levels. What makes your cortisol levels increase during high intensity training (HIIT) ...
CBD hemp oil is the best option for those who focus on building muscle. Because it has a very low percentage of THC; around 3% or less… Using CBD oil as a supplement before and after your workout can help keep your cortisol levels under control, as well as decrease inflammationthus allowing your muscles to regenerate and grow as they should.
