I took CBD capsules for five days and here’s how I got on

Satipharm CBD capsules are new to the Irish market. Here, one IMAGE writer tries them out for the first time. Read her five-day results diary below

I was diagnosed with anxiety years ago. Between a hectic work schedule and things going on at home, my mind is always full of worries, ‘what-ifs’ and ‘I musts’. It also means I have trouble getting to sleep at night, which in turn makes dealing with things the next day more difficult.

Nothing I’ve tried so far has helped; the lavender sprays; reduced caffeine, the ‘wind in the trees’ music. I even tried CBD oil, but its strong taste and texture turned my stomach.

That’s why I’m looking for something new. Satipharm CBD capsules, which are new to the Irish market, are backed by clinical research. Not only do the capsules guarantee reliable dosage (you can’t get that with an oil dropper), but also the box says there’s no taste. Sounds good to me, so far.

For the next five nights, I’m going to take Satipharm CBD capsules and write a diary of the results (you can read my completed five-day diary below).

What is CBD?

CBD is just one of more than 100 natural elements (cannabinoids) that occur naturally in the hemp plant. CBD does not have a psychoactive effect; in other words, it won’t make you ‘high’.

For at least 5,000 years, CBD has been extracted from hemp and used by people worldwide; for example, as herbal medicine in ancient China, Rome and Greece. Nowadays, scientists continue to test and publish how CBD interacts with the body.

CBD and the human body

Just as CBD is a cannabinoid that occurs naturally in hemp plants; the human body has naturally-occurring ‘cannabinoid receptors’.

These receptors make up part of our ‘endocannabinoid system’, which in turn plays a part in the body’s overall health and wellness. The naturally-occurring endocannabinoids interact with the body’s cannabinoid receptors, and through this process, the endocannabinoid system regulates a range of bodily functions.

What’s more, CBD is not an addictive substance, which means your body won’t come to rely on it; nor will it build up a tolerance to it.

What are Satipharm CBD capsules?

Satipharm CBD Gelpell capsules have clinically proven bioavailability* that is three times more effective than CBD oils, which have very low bioavailability.

This increase is down to Satipharm’s unique ‘Gelpell’ technology. Each capsule is full of micro-beads which are better absorbed in the small intestine (unlike CBD oils, which can be hindered by your saliva and stomach acid).

What’s more, the CBD capsules are manufactured under controlled conditions in Switzerland, where producers are committed to high standards at every stage of the manufacturing process.

Diary: Day one

I took my first Satipharm CBD capsule last night, about an hour before bed.

First impression? I like that there’s no taste; as in no flavour whatsoever. I also like that I didn’t have to experience the weird texture you get with a CBD oil. The capsule went down quickly and easily with water, and I could carry on with my evening without trying to mask the taste of oil with food.

As someone who finds it hard to fall asleep, I definitely drifted off more quickly than normal. I did do some of my usual ‘twisting and turning’, trying to get comfortable – but less than usual. What’s more, I woke up feeling rested. I’m intrigued to try the capsules again tonight.

Diary: Day two

Much like yesterday, the anxious thoughts that usually keep me awake at night, didn’t (well, not for as long, anyway). I took the capsule at the same time as the night before – an hour before bed – and drifted off to sleep fairly easily.

When my alarm went off for work this morning, the last thing I wanted to do was get up. It’s not often I sleep the whole night through, so I didn’t want it to end. But hey, at least it’s Friday. Whether it’s the CBD or the fact it’s almost the weekend, I’m not sure; but I do know my anxiety doesn’t feel as intense today.

Diary: Day three

I feel good today; well-rested and relatively calm. I know CBD can’t cure anxiety, but I definitely think it’s helping me in a subtle way. I’m by no means ‘jumping for joy’, but I feel more like myself and slightly less stressed. I’ve also stopped clenching my jaw so tight – which, as anyone who suffers from bruxism will know, is a big deal.

Diary: Day four

I didn’t sleep brilliantly last night (it was a late-night with friends and I’d had a few drinks). I also took the capsule earlier in the day than usual – perhaps there’s a lot to be said for consistency? I’ll take it an hour before bed again tonight and see how I get on tomorrow.

Diary: Day five

After five days of taking Satipharm CBD capsules, I’ve decided to continue taking them.

Since returning to take it an hour before bed, I slept well and only woke once during the night (almost unheard of for me).

While my anxiety is still very much part of my day-to-day life, I definitely feel more in control of it. My plan is to carry on with the capsules, at least ’til the end of the month, and see how I feel. Based on this week’s results, I’m optimistic.

For more information on Satipharm CBD Gelpell capsules, ask your local pharmacist for advice or visit Lloyds, McCabes, and Total Health Pharmacies nationwide.

*Bioavailability: This term is used to describe how much of something is absorbed into your system after you take it.

Top photo: Unsplash

Read more: CBD: What it is, how it works and how to take it

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