Foods for ECS Success
Help CBD Help You
*DISCLAIMER: This is a transcript of episode 14 - Help CBD Help You on Full Spectrum Living with CBD podcast. Click here to listen to the podcast episode or click here to watch the video.
Ep14_HELP CBD HELP YOU
Meredith [00:00:06] All right, welcome back to this episode of Full Spectrum Living with CBD. I am your co-host, Meredith, here with our host, Jessica and Adriane. And today, we're going to talk about how to set yourself up for success with CBD. So how to help yourself have a great experience with this. And Jessica, I know this is a huge passion topic for you. So you're going to kick us off today. What's one of these? We've got five tips. So what's what's your first one for today?
Jessica [00:00:30] Oh, well, I was just going to. Basically, this is coming from having clients come in occasionally that, you know, really seems like their expectation is they'll take a CBD product and everything is going to improve despite, you know, maybe eating a really poor quality diet and not moving enough and having a ton of pharmaceuticals. So there's a lot that influences it. I think the main thing to start off with is like, what are your expectations of CBD? Are they realistic? And is there a way that you can more accurately assess your expectation and the reality of how likely it is for it to be successful, but also measure that? How how successful has it been for you in the past month or so? So I think that that would be a really good place to start with. The conversation here is just what is the consumer's expectation and what is a way that we can track what they are looking to achieve and what they are achieving to really evaluate how it's affecting them? In that one specific area and not writing it off just because maybe you didn't have a level eight to level zero pain change. You know, so that that would be one place to start.
Meredith [00:01:50] Yeah, which makes sense. I mean, we've talked about how everybody's experience with CBD is a little bit different, how you can't pinpoint it and say it's gonna be the same for everyone who uses even the same amount. Right. And so I think what you're suggesting is that people really kind of document their experience so that they can manage their expectations, because sometimes people are going to see that shift quickly and sometimes it'll be overtime. Right.
Adriane [00:02:15] Well and I think we also tend to forget at what level of pain or discomfort or what we were really experiencing once you, once CBD has started working for you and maybe it's been a month or two. And so all of a sudden you forget the level of inflammation that you had in your joints. And so documenting that I think is a good way. You know, you can start off and it doesn't have to be in a diary or a journal or anything, which although that's a fantastic way to do it. It could literally be on a desk calendar where you're just sitting there thinking you're like pain level eight, you know, inflammation, you know, can't close my hands. So just small things like that. And then as you're tracking it through your servings and as you're going through the weeks, you will be able to look back and think, oh, wow, I was at an eight before. I'm can, I'm in a four now. I'm not pain free, but I'm definitely pain better. Right. So I think having that way to really track and look back. I know parents with kids with epilepsy do this because the number of seizures, the length of the seizure, the severity of the seizure, they document all the time. So it's a great way to kind of look back and see at what level of benefit they're experiencing.
Jessica [00:03:23] And I think on on that note as well, I know I've mentioned in other podcasts, but to evaluate not just daily but maybe prior to your serving and after your serving kind of check back in and see if you're noticing any more immediate effects. So I've mentioned on here the inner inventory through the healer training that we go through and I think definitely it applies here as well. So that is advocating that when a person takes cannabis depending on their route of consumption. So assuming you're taking our oil or an oil, the peak effect that you would notice more immediately would be one to two hours in. And although many people don't immediately notice, like, OK, an hour later their pain is gone, like that does not always happen, does not often happen with CBD. It's a more of a long term progress towards pain relief. But you can notice things like you're able to breathe more easily, you're able to get more comfortable when you're seated, you're able to smile more easily. Your mood has improved. Those are all signs that it's taking effect and working for you in a short period of time. So I would definitely say if we're talking about checking in on yourself to do it not just daily, but maybe around one or two hours after you take a CBD product and just see what are the subtle changes that indicate that it is doing something, although it might not be everything you are wanting to immediately. What are the subtle differences that you're noticing, like ease of breath, comfort and mood that you can measure.
Meredith [00:05:06] Awesome, so expectations and then just checking in with yourself and noticing and being in tune with what's going on in your body. So what's another area that people can really help themselves in when it comes to maximizing the impact of CBD?
Meredith [00:05:21] It's gonna come down to diet and nutrition. It really is. And that's always everybody's favorite subject, right? Yeah. Everybody loves to talk about what they're eating and how they can lose weight, but it really comes down to, you know, whole foods and just eating better. More vitamin packed and nutrient foods, because I like to use the example of if you're using CBD to kind of help with gout, you can't eat red meat and drink a beer with it and then expect the CBD to make the gout go away or that make the gout never come back again. So it really comes down to you have to look at what you're consuming. You can't out train a bad diet. Right. So you need to think about it from that same aspect. And that doesn't mean that you can never have a steak, that you can never have a beer, that you can never have pizza. Not saying that at all. It's literally just about looking at what you're consuming and making better choices. Around the new year, everybody's always looking and making their resolutions. And so what better time, right, than to sit back and say, well, I know I'm going to eat better so now I can put realistic expectations and maybe my CBD will actually start working even better for me than what it already has been before.
Jessica [00:06:29] And I would like to just add onto that, I think I believe we're going to be touching on this a little bit more in a future episode, but there are specific things that can boost the endocannabinoid system that we'll talk about later. One of those being chocolate. So some of them are fun, enjoyable ones and and things you can remove that have a more negative effect. Alcohol would be one of those or minimizing your alcohol consumption. And there's a lot more to that. But I think what's always worked best for me is adding in positive things. So I would say start adding in more probiotics. So we know there's a connection between the endocannabinoid system and and your gut health. And that's something that we're trying to understand better. But that might be a good thing to introduce instead of trying to just overhaul diet as a whole.
Meredith [00:07:25] Absolutely. So diet would be kind of our second area where we definitely can help ourselves to make the experience better. What's our third?
Jessica [00:07:35] I would say stress management and this might not be all particular orders, but definitely significant. Stress management I think plays a huge role in everything. CBD, of course, helps with stress management, but I think taking additional steps to manage your stress more effectively certainly helps to promote the endocannabinoid system as well. So it's just another thing you can do to maximize your your health there. So of course everyone's different in how they manage stress. But, you know, breathing, exercise, meditation, yoga, those are all things that seem to be very closely related to it or endurance activities like runners or people who just like to get out in nature and go for a walk. There's so many options and we're all familiar with that. But just drawing the connection to how important that is to really get your endocannabinoid health up to speed. So I would say at least starting with some intentional deep breathing. Just breathe more. That's a great way to start.
Meredith [00:08:44] Absolutely. Absolutely. Now, what about people? We were talking a little bit earlier. The fourth area was in relationship to pharmaceuticals. So people that are taking meds, how should they manage that if they're integrating CBD?
Endocannabinoid Deficiency
What Is Endocannabinoid Deficiency?
You might not realize that your body's Endocannabinoid System (ECS) plays an essential role in regulating various functions like mood, pain, and appetite. When this system is out of balance, it can lead to a condition known as Endocannabinoid Deficiency (ECD). This deficiency can result in a host of troubling symptoms that many people experience without understanding their root cause. What exactly causes this imbalance, and how can it be addressed?
Understanding the Endocannabinoid System (ECS)
The Endocannabinoid System (ECS) plays an essential role in maintaining balance within your body, influencing everything from mood to immune response.
When you experience a deficiency in this system, it can lead to various health issues, making it important to understand its functions.
Let's explore how the ECS operates and what happens when it doesn't function properly. Recent studies have indicated that an imbalance within the ECS is linked to chronic pain, anxiety, and metabolic disorders.
The Role of the Endocannabinoid System in the Body
Understanding the Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is essential for grasping how our bodies maintain balance and health.
The ECS plays a critical role in regulating crucial functions like sleep, mood stabilization, and pain modulation. By facilitating endocannabinoid interactions, it helps manage your stress response and keeps you feeling grounded.
When you experience stress or discomfort, the ECS springs into action, ensuring your body can adapt and respond effectively. It's fascinating to see how this intricate system contributes to your overall well-being. Recent research indicates that cannabinoids interact with the ECS to further enhance its regulatory functions.
As you learn more about the ECS, you'll appreciate how crucial it's for supporting homeostasis and fostering a sense of connection within yourself and with others.
Embracing this knowledge can empower you on your wellness journey.
What is Endocannabinoid System Deficiency?
An underactive or imbalanced Endocannabinoid System (ECS) can lead to what's known as Endocannabinoid Deficiency, which may manifest as various health issues.
Your ECS plays a significant role in maintaining balance, but factors like genetic predisposition, dietary influences, stress impact, and exposure to environmental toxins can hinder effective endocannabinoid signaling.
When your body struggles to produce or respond to endocannabinoids, it can result in symptoms like anxiety, chronic pain, or digestive issues. Understanding the relationship between cannabinoid receptors and their functions is essential for addressing this deficiency.
Understanding this deficiency is essential for your wellness journey. By recognizing how these factors interact, you can take proactive steps, such as adjusting your diet or managing stress, to support your ECS and enhance your overall well-being.
You're not alone in this; many are exploring ways to restore balance.
Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency: A Recognized Condition
Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CED) is gaining recognition as a condition that impacts your health in various ways.
It suggests that a lack of endocannabinoids may contribute to issues like migraines and fibromyalgia.
Understanding CED and its broader implications can help you explore effective solutions for restoring balance in your body.
What is Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CED)?
The concept of Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CED) has gained attention in recent years, particularly through the research of Dr. Ethan Russo. CED suggests that a lack of endocannabinoid signaling may contribute to various conditions like migraines, fibromyalgia, and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). This deficiency affects cannabinoid receptor types, leading to an increased neuroinflammation connection and complicating pain management strategies. The clinical implications are significant, as understanding CED can help tailor more effective treatments for those suffering from these conditions. Additionally, CBD's mechanism of action reveals how it interacts with the endocannabinoid system to potentially alleviate symptoms associated with CED.
Endocannabinoid Deficiency Syndrome: A Broader Look
Understanding Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CED) opens the door to a broader perspective on Endocannabinoid Deficiency Syndrome (EDS).
As endocannabinoid research trends advance, it becomes clearer how ECS and mental health intertwine. You might find that CED plays a role in various unexplained medical conditions, shedding light on chronic issues like migraines and fibromyalgia.
Historical ECS studies have laid the groundwork for understanding how cannabis plant compounds interact with your body's natural systems. This connection emphasizes the ECS's impact on metabolism and overall well-being.
Endocannabinoid Deficiency Symptoms: How It Manifests
If you're experiencing symptoms like chronic pain, anxiety, or digestive issues, it might signal an imbalance in your Endocannabinoid System (ECS).
Recognizing these common signs is essential for understanding your health.
Additionally, there are ways to test for endocannabinoid deficiency to help you find the right support.
Common Signs of an Imbalanced ECS
How can you tell if your Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is out of balance? You might experience chronic pain, fatigue, mood disorders, sleep disturbances, or digestive issues.
These signs often highlight ECS imbalance causes, and it's crucial to reflect on a lifestyle impact analysis. Stress management strategies, like mindfulness or exercise, can help mitigate these symptoms.
If you're struggling with persistent discomfort, exploring pain relief options such as full-spectrum CBD could be beneficial, as it offers natural pain relief and anti-inflammatory properties that may help manage symptoms. Additionally, implementing mood stabilization techniques like journaling or therapy can support emotional well-being.
How to Test for Endocannabinoid Deficiency
What signs might indicate an Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CED) in your body? As we explore the potential for testing, several emerging ECS testing methods and clinical assessments show promise.
Although there's no definitive medical test yet, researchers are advancing biomarker development to better understand endocannabinoid profiles. You might consider these indicators:
- Persistent pain or inflammation
- Mood disorders like anxiety or depression
- Digestive issues, such as IBS
These research advancements hint at a future where testing for CED could become routine.
While you're on this journey, staying informed about your ECS is essential. Connecting with others who share your concerns can also foster a sense of community and support as we navigate these evolving health discussions together.
Addressing Endocannabinoid Deficiency: Natural and Therapeutic Approaches
To support a healthy Endocannabinoid System, you can explore both natural and therapeutic approaches.
Incorporating full-spectrum CBD and other cannabinoids into your routine can enhance ECS regulation and promote balance. This holistic approach utilizes the entourage effect of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids to maximize health benefits.
Understanding how these compounds work together will empower you to make informed choices for your well-being.
How to Support a Healthy Endocannabinoid System
Supporting a healthy Endocannabinoid System (ECS) is essential for overall well-being, especially if you're experiencing symptoms related to Endocannabinoid Deficiency.
You can take proactive steps through nutrition strategies, exercise routines, and stress relief techniques. Consider these approaches:
- Incorporate Omega-3 fatty acids and dark chocolate into your diet for ECS-boosting benefits.
- Establish a regular exercise routine to enhance endocannabinoid production naturally.
- Explore ECS supplements that align with your dietary adjustments for ideal support.
The Role of CBD and Cannabinoids in ECS Regulation
As research continues to reveal the complexities of the Endocannabinoid System (ECS), it's becoming clear that cannabinoids like CBD, THC, and CBG play a vital role in regulating its function.
By harnessing cannabinoid synergy, these therapeutic cannabinoids support ECS modulation and enhance your body's natural balance.
The phytocannabinoid benefits of full-spectrum products, like Bluegrass Hemp Oil's Genesis Blend, can help restore ECS homeostasis by activating CB1 and CB2 receptors, promoting endocannabinoid production, and reducing inflammation. This full-spectrum formulation, which contains over 12 natural cannabinoids , not only addresses endocannabinoid deficiency but also fosters a sense of belonging in a community focused on wellness.
Embracing these natural solutions can empower you to achieve peak health and well-being, reminding you that you're not alone on this journey.
The Future of Endocannabinoid Deficiency Research
As research on endocannabinoid deficiency continues to grow, you're likely to see an increase in studies exploring its links to various health conditions.
These ongoing investigations could lead to innovative treatments that target the endocannabinoid system more effectively.
Staying informed about these developments will empower you to make better choices for your health and wellness.
Ongoing Studies and Emerging Treatments
While researchers explore the complexities of Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency (CED), they're uncovering promising avenues for both pharmaceutical and plant-based treatments.
As interest grows, you might find excitement in the following emerging strategies:
- Pharmaceutical interventions targeting ECS modulation to enhance cannabinoid efficacy.
- Plant-based therapies like full-spectrum CBD oils that support endocannabinoid balance naturally.
- Ongoing clinical trials evaluating the safety and effectiveness of these treatments.
This cannabinoid research is essential, as it aims to identify effective solutions for conditions linked to CED, such as migraines and anxiety. Additionally, the use of full-spectrum CBD oil may provide enhanced therapeutic benefits through the entourage effect, which can be vital in addressing ECS-related imbalances.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Diet Influence My Endocannabinoid System Function?
Absolutely, your diet can influence your endocannabinoid system function!
Incorporating dietary fats, especially omega-3s, is vital for maintaining balance. Herbal supplements can also play a role in supporting your body's natural processes.
Focusing on balanced nutrition helps guarantee your gut health is in check, which is essential for peak ECS function.
Are There Specific Exercises That Support the ECS?
They say, "A healthy body houses a healthy mind."
To support your endocannabinoid system (ECS), incorporate exercises like yoga, which enhances flexibility and reduces stress.
Aerobic exercises boost your mood, while strength training builds resilience.
Don't forget mindfulness practices like meditation, which can deepen your connection to your body.
Outdoor activities, from hiking to biking, allow you to connect with nature, further benefiting your ECS.
Embrace these practices, and you'll foster a sense of belonging and well-being.
How Does Stress Impact the Endocannabinoid System?
Stress can greatly impact your endocannabinoid system (ECS) regulation. When you're stressed, your body triggers a stress response, increasing cortisol levels.
This imbalance can lead to heightened anxiety and negatively affect your mental health. By managing stress effectively, you can support your ECS, promoting better anxiety management and overall well-being.
Engaging in mindfulness practices or physical activity helps restore harmony, allowing you to feel more connected and supported within your community.
Can Certain Medications Affect Endocannabinoid Levels?
Certain medications can definitely affect your endocannabinoid levels.
Medication interactions may influence how your body activates cannabinoid receptors, which can impact symptom management.
Pharmaceutical effects vary based on dosage considerations; some meds might enhance or inhibit cannabinoid function.
It's important to consult your healthcare provider to understand how your prescriptions could alter your ECS balance.
Finding the right approach guarantees you feel supported and empowered in managing your health effectively.
Is Endocannabinoid Deficiency Hereditary?
Isn't it ironic? You might think your family tree only holds secrets of quirky habits, but it could also hide genetic predispositions to endocannabinoid deficiency.
Familial patterns and inherited traits can influence your ECS. While research is still evolving, epigenetic influences suggest that your ancestry might play a role.
Conclusion
In summary, understanding and addressing endocannabinoid deficiency is essential for overall health. Research indicates that nearly 70% of those with migraines may experience symptoms related to Clinical Endocannabinoid Deficiency. By recognizing these signs and exploring natural and therapeutic approaches, you can support your Endocannabinoid System and improve your well-being. As we continue to learn more about the ECS, it becomes even clearer how important it is to maintain its balance for a healthier life.
Everyone has a CBD Oil Story, Here’s Ours
The Origin of Kentucky Cannabis Company and Bluegrass Hemp Oil
A Family’s Journey Begins – January 2009
In the Christmas photo below, you’ll see Gunner and Colten Polyniak with their new Great Dane pup, Angus. What that picture doesn’t show is how soon everything would change. On a cold January day in Lexington, Kentucky—while the city was shut down due to ice and snow—our son Colten had his first seizure. It was the day everything began.
Gunner and Colten Polyniak with their Great Dane puppy, Angus, enjoying a joyful Christmas moment together, unaware of the challenges that would begin just days later.
Our Story
How One Family's Fight Against Seizures Sparked a CBD Revolution in Kentucky
At Bluegrass Hemp Oil, our products aren’t inspired by market trends. They’re inspired by something much deeper—our son’s fight for his life. This is our story. A story of hope, healing, and the birth of a movement rooted in family, science, and unwavering faith.
The Day Everything Changed
It was January 2009. Our sons, Gunner and Colten, had just celebrated Christmas with their new Great Dane puppy, Angus. The joy in that holiday photo is palpable—but what it doesn't show is the life-altering event that would unfold just days later.
On a snowy Lexington morning, while the city was shut down by ice, our youngest son Colten—only three years old—suffered his first grand mal seizure. One moment he was playing on the stairs with his brother, the next, he was face-down on the floor, unresponsive. His eyes were rolled back, and his tiny body convulsing.
The only thing I could do was fall to my knees and beg God not to take my child.
A Diagnosis Without Relief
That seizure wasn’t an isolated event. In the days and weeks that followed, the episodes returned—and escalated. First it was a few seizures a day. Then dozens. Eventually, hundreds each week. Colten experienced nearly every form of epilepsy: Myoclonic, Atonic, Absence, Tonic-Clonic.
Seizures became our new normal. He'd drop face-first into his cereal. He'd slump under bathwater. There were moments of fear, frustration, and exhaustion no parent should ever have to witness—let alone endure.
The Pharmaceutical Struggle
Medications, Combinations, and a Narrow Escape
The first drug prescribed was Keppra—a name we quickly came to dread. Instead of reducing seizures, it introduced a terrifying side effect known as Keppra rage. Our once joyful, sweet boy was suddenly prone to violent outbursts and emotional volatility.
But Keppra was just the beginning.
What followed was a rotating cocktail of anti-epileptic drugs, each one layered on top of the last in desperate attempts to control Colten’s condition. Depakote, Clobazam, Lorazepam, Phenobarbital—the list went on. We were told mixing them was normal protocol. But it felt like blindfolded medicine.
Before long, Colten became lethargic and unresponsive. His energy was gone. He was slipping away from us.
Then the lab results came in: Colten’s organs—especially his liver—were beginning to shut down.
We were told to discontinue all medications immediately.
The truth is, he was hours away from organ failure. That was our breaking point. The very treatments meant to help him were killing him.
A Glimmer of Hope at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital
Desperate and running out of options, we transferred Colten to Cincinnati Children’s Hospital. There, doctors proposed a simpler approach: try a single medication—Topamax. To our relief, the seizures stopped.
But like everything else, Topamax came at a cost. Colten developed neuropathy in his hands and feet. He couldn’t sweat. His cognitive development was impacted. We had control over the seizures—but lost so much else in the process.
A Father’s Search for Something Better
During countless sleepless nights, I buried myself in research. That’s when I stumbled on stories of cannabis being used to help children with seizures. I remember turning to my wife and saying, “What if we just held his nose and blew it in?” We laughed—because sometimes, that’s all you can do. But the idea stuck with me.
Soon I came across a CBD-rich, low-THC cannabis strain called ACDC being used in California—not for a high, but for calm. What these women didn’t realize was that what they were using wasn’t marijuana… it was hemp.
Building Kentucky’s First Full-Spectrum CBD Company
In 2013, Kentucky passed Senate Bill 50, making the state ready to grow hemp as soon as it was federally allowed. The 2014 Farm Bill unlocked that door.
I applied—and was awarded Kentucky’s 5th industrial hemp pilot program license, the only one focused on cannabinoid research.
I traveled to California and brought back 57 high-CBD hemp plants. That same year, we founded Kentucky Cannabis Company, and shortly after, our retail brand—Bluegrass Hemp Oil—was born.
The Birth of Genesis Blend
Back then, the CBD landscape was a mess: low-quality isolates, inconsistent dosing, and snake oil marketing. We knew families needed something better.
We created Genesis Blend, a true full-spectrum CBD oil with dependable, repeatable dosing and maximum bioavailability. Extracted using hydrocarbon (BHO) extraction, Genesis Blend retains the full array of natural cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant fats—just as nature intended.
Unlike isolated CBD, which is often less effective and poorly absorbed, Genesis Blend offers complete therapeutic potential, just like the plant itself.
The Results Spoke for Themselves
We started small, shipping Genesis Blend to a few families. Within a year, we were sending it to all 50 states. While others were stuck behind marijuana laws, we had one major advantage: our CBD came from federally legal hemp.
More importantly:
👉 Colten has remained seizure-free ever since.
👉 He’s in school, has a job, and lives life like any other young adult.
👉 His older brother, Gunner, who once experienced seizures himself after vaping, also made a full recovery after quitting.
Still a Family Business. Still Fighting for Yours.
At Bluegrass Hemp Oil and Kentucky Cannabis Company, we are laser-focused on the mission that started it all:
✔️ To make the highest-quality full-spectrum CBD in the country
✔️ To educate families and physicians about natural alternatives
✔️ To stand up against synthetic and low-quality imposters
✔️ And to put people over profit—every single time
We believe that full-spectrum CBD should be the first thing families try—not the last resort after pharmaceuticals fail.
From Our Family to Yours
Our story began with a seizure and a prayer. It led to a product that has helped thousands—across Kentucky and beyond—find hope, healing, and relief.
We invite you to be part of that story.
— William "Bill" Polyniak
Founder, Kentucky Cannabis Company & Bluegrass Hemp Oil
