You may have heard all about CBD, and its magical-like health benefits, but what exactly is our ECS? The endocannabinoid system (ECS) is a widely distributed neurotransmitter systems network that is involved in central nervous system growth, synapse formation, and reaction to internal and external stressors. Cannabinoid transmitters, natural cannabinoids, and lipids involved in endocannabinoid production and destruction make up the ECS. CB1 cannabinoid receptors are the most common, although some cannabinoids further interact with CB2 cannabinoid receptors.

The neurotransmitter of ECS is found in neural cells all over the body, however they are particularly abundant in the brain. The endocannabinoid system aids in the restoration of our physiological equilibrium when problems such as illness, sickness, or infection breaks in. 

The endocannabinoid network is involved in the harmony of several biological functions, including brain and spine, heart and lungs, and digestion. By acting upon our homeostasis, endocannabinoid receptors help in controlling our mood, appetite, temperature, blood flow, and blood sugar level. 

In this article, we discuss how one can improve their endocannabinoid functions and enhance the maintenance of their physiological factors. 

 

How Does ECS Work? 

Anandamide (AEA) and 2-arachidonoylglycerol are two forms of neurotransmitters that our bodies create naturally. When endocannabinoid receptors attach to these neurotransmitters, they send out a message that aids in the regulation of biological processes like relaxation, irritation, and even neuronal transmission. 

According to studies, the endocannabinoid system might not operate as it should in many circumstances. One way to help our ECS is to include active ingredients in our daily lifestyle, either through CBD oil or other cannabinoid methods. However, in addition to consuming plant-derived CBD, there are several other things one could do to improve their ECS's efficiency and the functionality of their cannabinoid receptors. Let us take a look at the actions that can help improve the Endocannabinoid system.

 

1. Omega 3’s 

The majority of the lipids required to maintain our bodies can be generated naturally from different foods or natural resources. Omega-3 fats, on the other hand, are not in this category. These are necessary essential lipids, which the system cannot produce independently, and we must obtain from our diets. Seafood, palm oil, peanuts, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, and dark greens are rich in Omega-3. According to studies, meals rich in omega-3 fatty acids may also have a beneficial impact on the endocannabinoid system and cognitive functioning. During research, scientists gave rats a meal that was heavy in omega-6 fatty acids and low in omega-3s, then they examined the relationships among food, cognitive functions, and the endocannabinoid receptors in the rats. The rats which lacked the vital Omega-3’s had abnormal cerebral performance, as well as low endocannabinoid receptor activation in regions of the nervous system, associated with psychological behavior and mood disturbances.

 

Foods Which Help Enhance ECS

Listed below are some other food sources that may help in increasing the efficiency of the endocannabinoid system naturally. 

Chocolate:

Chocolate has three chemical elements which link to cannabinoid receptors. These substances can prevent our natural endocannabinoids from being dissolved, leading to increased ECS concentrations. Cocoa or pure chocolate that contains 80% or more of these cannabinoids appear to be richer in these components. Chocolate is high in anandamide which controls emotion, cognition, hunger, and stress reduction, and is generally created in the neural network. Anandamide is regarded as the “joy receptor” as when it is generated, it produces a blissful buzz. It is sometimes referred to as the brain's endogenous form of weed. Anandamide chemicals generated from plants stay in the system, maintaining that happy sensation for a longer time. 

 

Tea And Spices:

Chemicals found in a variety of plants and drinks can help improve the ECS. Spices, citrus peels, garlic, hemp, mint, ginger, and many other botanicals contain beta-caryophyllene, a terpenoid. It activates the CB2 receptor specifically, which is a desirable characteristic in the creation of anti-inflammatory drugs.

A woman exercising doing yoga.

2. Enhancing ECS With Exercise:

Experts are yet unsure exactly how it works, but it has been observed through many occasions that exercise can enhance emotions in those suffering from depressive episodes.

The endocannabinoid system may hold the clues. According to Jacob Meyer, this mechanism is built up of the body's own natively produced cannabis compounds and sensors. These sensors' stimulation tends to increase mental abilities, which may affect inflammation and stress. 

In a study, researchers examined participants during, and following, high-intensity physical activity. The main purpose of the study was to examine endocannabinoid levels, and emotional shifts after exercise. 

After suggested physical activity, they discovered a considerable increase in endocannabinoids, as well as enhancements in well-being.

 

3. Meditation and the Endocannabinoid system:

Many studies have shown the effects of yoga and meditation in enhancing our endocannabinoid system. A study conducted in 2003 concluded that people who go to the gym, use the treadmill, or do yoga and medication on an almost daily basis have better heart conditions and blood levels as compared to those who do not. These people seemed to be less vulnerable to diseases and psychological problems. 

Another study suggested that people who meditate, do yoga, or receive body massages face fewer emotional shifts and are generally mostly in better moods. 

 

4. Liquor Use Should Be Reduced:

 

Responsibly consuming wine or beer is generally unlikely to have a significant impact on the endocannabinoid system. Excessive consumption and severe liquor intake, on the other hand, can significantly limit the efficacy of cannabinoids. Drinking in access can have a severe adverse reaction to the endocannabinoid system, and is advised against.  

 

5. Phytocannabinoids:

We have already learned that many people are unable to produce natural cannabinoids on their own. These people must fulfill the need for cannabinoids through external sources such as hemp plant extracts. 

Phytocannabinoids are low-toxic compounds with well-understood adverse reactions that are easy to foresee and fix. In comparison to other medications, they are certainly the most effective stress relievers or anti-pain agents. They provide us with the opportunity to manage individuals who have tried all medicinal alternatives, or who desire to lessen the severity of prescription therapies with extremely promising outcomes. These phytocannabinoids can be easily found in the products made by hemp plant extracts. These products are mostly labeled as CBD oil and are available in many different shapes and forms. 

 

A Word From Smilz

Our endocannabinoid system helps in regulating our homeostasis which refers to the physiological balance of many factors such as temperature, mood, appetite, and blood sugar, etc. Any imbalance in these physiological functions can harm our minds and body. This is why it is necessary to protect and strengthen our ECS. Meditation, exercise, and a healthy diet have been proven ways to help with our overall well-being. By incorporating certain CBD products to one’s daily routine, one can also help reap the most benefits, and the protection of their ECS. 

For additional information, please contact Smilz.

A happy man, strengthening his ECS with premium CBD.
A happy man, strengthening his ECS with premium CBD.