CBD Drinks for Sleep: A Beginner’s Guide

Today I'm excited to share a guest post by Daniel Stephenson from Little Rick, diving into the benefits of CBD-infused beverages and how they can complement a healthy lifestyle. Let's get into it!

If there's one thing that most 21^st-century Jane and Joe are struggling with, it's sleep. Sleep disturbances and abnormalities are off the charts. And now, many people are turning to natural remedies to help them relax and achieve a better, reinvigorating rest.

Turns out, CBD drinks stand head and shoulders above the most sought-after options available. These drinks are a subject of curiosity, especially for those new to the wellness scene. These beverages combine cannabidiol (CBD) found in hemp, with calming ingredients in a convenient, tasty form. 

The applications and benefits stretch far and wide. But if you're particularly curious about how these drinks might help with sleep, this beginner's guide is for you. 

How CBD Affects Sleep

There's a bit of science involved here, but let's break it down. The cannabidiol in these beverages works by interacting with your body's endocannabinoid system (ECS). The ECS is vital in regulating sleep, mood, appetite, and immune response. And that is not the only explanation there is to it. While research is still ongoing, studies suggest that CBD may help you sleep better by:

• Reducing anxiety: Anxiety and racing thoughts are common causes of insomnia. CBD helps calm your mind by influencing serotonin receptors in the brain.
• Promoting relaxation: First, by easing muscle tension. And secondly, by reducing stress hormones like cortisol.
• Regulating sleep cycles: Some evidence suggests CBD might improve REM sleep and reduce disturbances, giving you more restful nights.

This option is blowing pharmaceutical sleep aids right out of the water. Why? Well, because these can be habit-forming or cause grogginess the next day. Cannabidiol, on the other hand, is usually calming, safe, and with little to no after-effects. You just need to use it appropriately.

Benefits of CBD Drinks for Sleep

There are also several other ways you can benefit from CBD drinks, if you're looking to achieve better sleep.   

1. It's Convenient and Enjoyable

CBD drinks are easy to consume, and to say they're delicious is an understatement. With a variety of flavors and formats, there's something to suit every palate. Besides, you can incorporate them into your nightly routine just like you would a cup of herbal tea. Talk about a chill way to unwind before bed.

2. Pre-measured Dosage

Dosing has always been a challenge, especially with CBD oil or tinctures. Luckily, these drinks usually come with a clearly labeled amount of the substance in each serving. So, you know exactly how much you're consuming, making it easy to control your intake and adjust as needed. This is especially important for beginners.

3. Non-Habit Forming

Unlike most other available options, CBD is not addictive and does not lead to dependence. This gives it a solid edge over many sleep medications, which can sometimes cause unwanted side effects or leave you feeling groggy the next day.

4. Complementary Ingredients

Most CBD-infused sleep drinks are formulated with additional calming ingredients. You can bet you'll be getting a synergistic effect that can enhance relaxation and boost sleep quality.

How do I Choose the Right One?

The number of options on the market is simply staggering. It can be overwhelming to find the right one. Here are a few handy tips:

1. Check the CBD Type

• Full-spectrum CBD contains all cannabinoids, including trace amounts of THC (usually below 0.3%).
• Broad-spectrum type includes various cannabinoids but no THC.
• CBD isolate is pure CBD with no other cannabinoids.

As a beginner, it's wise to consider broad-spectrum or isolate, especially if you'd like to avoid THC entirely.

2. Know the Dosage

This is where many make the rookie mistake of overdosing. Most sleep drinks contain between 10-25 mg of CBD per serving. If you're new to CBD, start with a lower dose (around 10 mg) to see how your body responds.

3. Review the Ingredients

Look for options - like most Little Rick products - that use natural, sleep-friendly ingredients. Avoid anything with excessive sugar, caffeine, or artificial additives. Remember, these extras can counteract the calming effects of CBD.

4. Third-Party Testing

Ensure the product has been tested by an independent lab for purity and potency. This guarantees it contains what it claims and nothing harmful.

When and How to Take CBD Drinks for Sleep

Finding the best drink for your needs is one thing, knowing when to take it for the best results is a whole different story. For the best results, consider taking your drink about 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime. This gives your body enough time to absorb the CBD and let its calming effects kick in. Do note, however, that while some people notice results quickly, others may need a few days of consistent use to experience the full benefits.

If you're a first-time user…

• Create a calming bedtime routine (e.g., dim lights, read a book, or take a warm bath).
• Avoid stimulants like caffeine and/or electronics before bed.
• Try the drink on a night when you don't have early obligations, just in case you feel more relaxed than expected.

Potential Side Effects and Considerations

Honestly, CBD is generally safe. However, like any supplement, some users may experience side effects. Even then, it's important to note that this may also happen as a result of high dosage. These may include:

• Dry mouth
• Drowsiness
• Changes in appetite
• Mild gastrointestinal upset

Interactions with medications are also possible, particularly blood thinners or sedatives. So, if you're taking prescription drugs, it's wise to consult your doctor before using CBD. Also, for those who have health conditions.

To Wrap It Up…

There you have it. CBD drinks offer an amazing way to improve your sleep quality, especially for those seeking natural ways to sleep better. But for beginners, the tips shared here are important, so keep them in mind. 

As always, start low and go slow. Track your experience and journal how your body reacts. Most importantly, be patient if you don't feel the effects instantly. For some, it takes several nights for the effects to be noticeable. 

Disclaimer from Nena:
This post was written by a guest contributor from Little Rick. While I received no direct compensation, the brand may include links to their website. All opinions are their own.