Vitality Unleashed: The Functional Medicine Podcast

The Role of CBD in Transforming Cancer Care

• Dr. Kumar from LifeWellMD.com • Season 1 • Episode 74

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Can CBD really play a role in cancer management? Explore the potential of this intriguing compound alongside traditional treatments, as we break down its benefits, risks, and the science behind it. In our latest episode, we delve into the fascinating distinctions between THC and CBD, emphasizing CBD's non-intoxicating properties that make it an appealing option for medical use. We navigate through the complex endocannabinoid system to uncover how its dysfunction might be linked to diseases like cancer, and we demystify the choices between full-spectrum and broad-spectrum CBD products to help you make informed decisions.

Join us as we investigate the exciting potential of CBD and its precursor, CBDA, in managing cancer symptoms and improving patient quality of life. Discover how these compounds might reduce nausea, protect against chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, and even enhance the effects of traditional cancer therapies like cisplatin and radiation. We stress the importance of open dialogue with healthcare providers due to potential drug interactions and highlight the value of a personalized, integrative approach to cancer treatment. Whether you're a patient, caregiver, or simply curious about the therapeutic promise of CBD, this episode promises to equip you with evidence-based insights that could change the way you view cancer management.

Disclaimer:
The information provided in this podcast is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your supplement regimen or health routine. Individual needs and reactions vary, so it’s important to make informed decisions with the guidance of your physician.

Connect with Us:
If you enjoyed today’s episode, be sure to subscribe, leave us a review, and share it with someone who might benefit. For more insights and updates, visit our website at Lifewellmd.com.

Stay Informed, Stay Healthy:
Remember, informed choices lead to better health. Until next time, be well and take care of yourself.

Speaker 1:

Hey everyone and welcome back for another deep dive. Yeah, you know we love to tackle topics that you're curious about, and this one comes straight from you guys.

Speaker 2:

That's right.

Speaker 1:

We had a listener send in some fascinating research on CBD and its potential role in cancer management.

Speaker 2:

Yeah, it's a hot topic, for sure, and for good reason.

Speaker 1:

Definitely. I mean, we've all been hearing more and more about medicinal cannabis these days, especially in the context of cancer, and how it might be able to help people cope with the disease and the side effects of treatment. So I think it's time we dig in and try to understand what the science actually says.

Speaker 2:

I'm with you there. It seems like just about everywhere you turn these days someone is touting the benefits of CBD. But it's important to separate the hype from the facts, you know.

Speaker 1:

Totally, and that's what we're all about here. Right, getting to the bottom of things. Absolutely Evidence-based information is key, especially when it comes to something as serious as cancer. So let's start by acknowledging the elephant in the room, shall we? There are already a good number of cancer patients using medicinal cannabis.

Speaker 2:

Right and the research actually backs that up. Medicinal cannabis Right and the research actually backs that up. Surveys have shown that a significant portion of cancer patients are turning to medicinal cannabis to manage their symptoms or to potentially, help fight the disease itself.

Speaker 1:

It really speaks to the fact that people are looking for options.

Speaker 2:

They are. They're willing to explore different avenues to improve their quality of life and potentially enhance their treatment outcomes.

Speaker 1:

Exactly, and that's something we really want to emphasize in this deep dive. It's about taking a holistic approach to cancer care, looking beyond conventional treatments and considering all the tools that might be available.

Speaker 2:

I couldn't agree more.

Speaker 1:

So, with that in mind, let's back up a bit and break down some of the basics. When we talk about cannabis, we're talking about cannabis sativa, a plant that's been used medicinally for centuries across various cultures.

Speaker 2:

And what makes this plant so fascinating is that it produces over 540 different compounds.

Speaker 1:

Wow, 540. That's incredible. But of course the two we hear about most are THC and CBD.

Speaker 2:

Exactly, thc is the one that's responsible for the psychoactive effects, the feeling of being high.

Speaker 1:

Right, and while THC definitely has its own medicinal uses, it does. Today we're focusing on CBD, which is cannabidiol.

Speaker 2:

And CBD is non-intoxicating.

Speaker 1:

Right, it doesn't get you high.

Speaker 2:

Nope, and that's one of the reasons why it's gaining so much attention in the medical community.

Speaker 1:

It seems like CBD is kind of the more approachable sibling of THC. All the potential benefits without the baggage.

Speaker 2:

That's a great way to put it, and those potential benefits are what's really exciting. Researchers.

Speaker 1:

So let's talk about those benefits. What is all the buzz about CBD? What kinds of things might it be able to help with?

Speaker 2:

Well, preclinical and clinical studies suggest that CBD may have therapeutic potential in a wide range of areas, from anxiety and depression to nausea, sleep disorders, inflammation and even potentially fighting cancer itself.

Speaker 1:

Wow, that's quite a list. So before we jump into how CBD might actually work its magic in the body, let's talk about something I keep hearing about these different types of CBD products full spectrum and broad spectrum. What's?

Speaker 2:

the difference. That's an important distinction. A full spectrum CBD product contains all the naturally occurring compounds found in the cannabis plant, including a small amount of THC.

Speaker 1:

So it's like the whole entourage, the full symphony of the plant's compounds.

Speaker 2:

Precisely, and there's a theory that these compounds work together synergistically to enhance their effects.

Speaker 1:

Interesting. What about broad spectrum then?

Speaker 2:

Broad spectrum is similar, but it's had the THC removed.

Speaker 1:

Got it. So you get most of the other compounds, but without the THC. So choosing between them is kind of like picking your musical preference. Do you want the full orchestra with the THC baseline or a more stripped down version?

Speaker 2:

That's a great analogy and ultimately the choice depends on individual preferences and needs.

Speaker 1:

Makes sense. But regardless of which type you choose, it sounds like CBD might offer a symphony of potential benefits. Now, how does it all work? I mean, how does CBD actually interact with our bodies to produce these effects?

Speaker 2:

To understand that we need to talk about the endocannabinoid system, or ECS.

Speaker 1:

Okay, ecs. I've heard that term before but to be honest, I'm a bit fuzzy on the details.

Speaker 2:

It's a fascinating system and a crucial one. The ECS is a network of receptors and neurotransmitters found throughout the body.

Speaker 1:

And it's involved in regulating a wide array of functions. Right.

Speaker 2:

Exactly, the ECS is like the body's master regulator. It's responsible for maintaining homeostasis or balance in a whole host of systems. This is kind of like the conductor of an orchestra making sure everything is working together in harmony Exactly, and the ECS plays a role in everything from mood and sleep to pain and inflammation, immune function, appetite and even energy balance.

Speaker 1:

Wow, it really is the ultimate multitasker keeping everything running smoothly behind the scenes.

Speaker 2:

It is. It's constantly working to keep our bodies in a state of equilibrium.

Speaker 1:

So how does this all tie back into CBD and cancer?

Speaker 2:

Well, research is increasingly pointing to a connection between dysfunction in the ECS and the development of various diseases, including cancer.

Speaker 1:

So when our Internal Balancing Act goes awry, it can create an environment where disease can take hold.

Speaker 2:

That's the idea, and here's where things get really interesting. Studies have shown that cannabinoid receptors, the key players in the ECS, are expressed on both cancer cells and normal cells.

Speaker 1:

Wait so both healthy and cancerous cells have these receptors? That's a bit of a head scratcher. How does CBD differentiate between the good guys and the bad guys?

Speaker 2:

That's the million-dollar question of a head scratcher. How does CBD differentiate between the good guys and the bad guys? That's the million dollar question. And while the research is still ongoing, preclinical studies have shown that cannabinoids, including CBD, seem to activate different signaling pathways in cancer cells compared to healthy cells.

Speaker 1:

So it's like CBD has a secret handshake with cancer cells, recognizing them as the enemy and targeting them, while leaving healthy cells relatively undisturbed.

Speaker 2:

You could say that, and that's what makes CBD so intriguing as a potential therapeutic agent. It seems to have this ability to selectively target cancer cells.

Speaker 1:

Okay. So we've got this intricate system, the ECS, working to keep our bodies in balance, and then we've got CBD, which can interact with this system and potentially disrupt the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Speaker 2:

Right, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. There's so much more to uncover about how CBD interacts with the ECS and how those interactions might be harnessed to benefit cancer patients.

Speaker 1:

This is definitely getting my wheels turning, so let's delve a bit deeper into those potential benefits. What are some of the specific ways that CBD might influence tumor features and molecular pathways? What's the latest from the research front?

Speaker 2:

Well, one of the most exciting areas of research is CBD's potential to directly target cancer cells and disrupt their growth and spread.

Speaker 1:

OK, so it's not just about managing symptoms. It's potentially about fighting the disease itself.

Speaker 2:

Exactly. Preclinical studies have shown that CBD might have several anti-cancer effects. Might have several anti-cancer effects. For instance, it may be able to induce programmed cell death in cancer cells, essentially prompting those cells to self-destruct.

Speaker 1:

Wow. So it's like CBD is delivering a self-destruct message to those rogue cancer cells, telling them to pack it in.

Speaker 2:

Precisely, and it doesn't stop there. Cbd might also inhibit the migration and invasion of cancer cells, preventing them from spreading and forming new tumors.

Speaker 1:

So it's like CBD is putting the brakes on those runaway cells, keeping them from wreaking havoc in other parts of the body.

Speaker 2:

Exactly that's the idea. It's about targeting the disease at its core and preventing it from progressing.

Speaker 1:

Pretty remarkable. What else have researchers observed?

Speaker 2:

Well, some studies have shown that CBD can reduce tumor size and vascularization.

Speaker 1:

Vascularization, you mean the blood vessels that feed the tumor.

Speaker 2:

Precisely by cutting off the blood supply, CBD might essentially starve the tumor and prevent it from growing.

Speaker 1:

So it's like CBD is a double agent, disrupting the cancer cells themselves and then cutting off their lifeline.

Speaker 2:

That's a great way to put it. And in animal models, CBD has even been shown to increase survival rates.

Speaker 1:

Now that's encouraging. It sounds like CBD might be a potent ally in the fight against cancer, potentially helping to target the disease at a cellular level. But let's not forget about the immense toll that cancer and its treatments take on the body.

Speaker 2:

Right. We can't just focus on fighting the disease itself. We also need to address the challenging symptoms that can significantly impact a patient's quality of life.

Speaker 1:

Absolutely. It's about supporting the whole person throughout their entire cancer journey, and that's where CBD's potential role in managing those symptoms comes into play.

Speaker 2:

Exactly. It's about recognizing that healing is a multifaceted process.

Speaker 1:

Right. So let's dive into some of those specific symptoms and see what the research tells us about CBD's potential role. So we were just talking about how cancer and its treatments, you know, can cause a whole array of difficult symptoms.

Speaker 2:

And how CBD might be able to help.

Speaker 1:

Right, so let's unpack that a bit. What are some of the specific symptoms that CBD is being investigated for, and what does the research suggest so far?

Speaker 2:

Well, anxiety is a big one. It's incredibly common among cancer patients, and for good reason. They're facing a life-altering diagnosis, undergoing intense treatments, dealing with uncertainty. It's a lot to process.

Speaker 1:

Absolutely, and that anxiety can really take a toll, both physically and emotionally. So what does the research say about CBD and anxiety in this context?

Speaker 2:

Well, there's actually a good amount of research in this area. Both preclinical and clinical studies have shown that CBD can reduce anxiety in both healthy individuals and those with specific anxiety disorders like social anxiety disorder.

Speaker 1:

So it's not just some kind of placebo effect. There seems to be a real physiological effect happening here.

Speaker 2:

Right, and that's what's so encouraging. It suggests that CBD isn't just a general relaxant. It might have targeted effects on different types of anxiety.

Speaker 1:

That's great to hear. What about depression, which is also unfortunately quite prevalent among cancer patients? Is there any hope there?

Speaker 2:

While the research on CBD and depression in cancer patients specifically is still emerging, preclinical studies have shown that CBD can reduce depressive-like behaviors in animal models, so there's definitely potential there.

Speaker 1:

It's a glimmer of hope for those struggling with the emotional burden that so often accompanies cancer. Now, another issue that comes up a lot is sleep. Cancer patients often have trouble getting a good night's rest, and we all know how crucial sleep is for overall health and well-being.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely. Sleep is essential for healing and for maintaining a strong immune system.

Speaker 1:

What's the story with CBD and sleep?

Speaker 2:

There's some interesting research suggesting that CBD might have a role in promoting sleep. For instance, some studies have found that cannabis users with insomnia experience relief with strains that are higher in CBD and lower in THC.

Speaker 1:

That makes sense. We know that THC can sometimes interfere with sleep, so it stands to reason that CBD-rich strains might be more beneficial for those seeking a good night's rest.

Speaker 2:

Exactly, it's all about finding the right balance.

Speaker 1:

But it's important to note that the research on CBD and sleep is still a bit mixed, isn't it? Some studies suggest stimulating effects, while others point to relaxation and sleep promotion.

Speaker 2:

You're right, there's still a lot to learn. It's likely that individual responses to CBD can vary, and factors like dosage, administration method and the specific CBD product used can all influence the effects. More research is definitely needed to fully understand how CBD impacts sleep and to determine the optimal approaches for different sleep disorders.

Speaker 1:

It sounds like there's a lot of new ones here. It's not as simple as just taking CBD and expecting to sleep like a baby.

Speaker 2:

Exactly, just taking CBD and expecting to sleep like a baby. Exactly, it's important to approach this with a sense of curiosity and to work with a knowledgeable healthcare professional who can help you navigate the complexities.

Speaker 1:

That's a good point. It highlights the importance of personalized medicine and working with someone who can help you tailor your approach based on your individual needs and circumstances. Now shifting gears a bit. Nausea is another major challenge for cancer patients, often as a side effect of chemotherapy. Does CBD offer any relief in this area?

Speaker 2:

The research on CBD's effects on nausea and vomiting is, admittedly, not as robust as the research on THC. However, there are some intriguing findings suggesting that CBD's precursor, cbda, might actually be more potent at reducing nausea.

Speaker 1:

CBDA. That's not one I hear about too often. What exactly is CBDA, and how is it different from CBD?

Speaker 2:

Think of CBDA as the raw, unprocessed form of CBD. It's naturally found in the cannabis plant and some studies suggest that it's significantly more effective than CBD at tackling nausea. But, as always, more research is needed to confirm these findings and explore the potential applications of CBDA.

Speaker 1:

It seems like every time we peel back a layer of the cannabis onion, we discover another layer of complexity. It's really a fascinating field to study, but for now let's move on to some other physical symptoms that often plague cancer patients, like pain and neuropathy. What does CBD have to offer in that realm?

Speaker 2:

Well. Research on THC and CBD combinations for pain management has shown real promise. But even CBD alone might play a role, particularly because of its potential neuroprotective effects.

Speaker 1:

Neuroprotective effects that might actually help protect the nerves from damage.

Speaker 2:

Exactly, and those neuroprotective properties could be particularly helpful in protecting against chemotherapy-induced neuropathy, a condition that often causes debilitating pain, tingling and numbness.

Speaker 1:

Neuropathy is a huge concern for many patients undergoing chemotherapy, so the idea that CBD might help shield nerves from damage is truly exciting. But it's not just about preventing damage right CBD might also help manage existing pain.

Speaker 2:

That's right. Cbd is being investigated for its potential to reduce pain perception and improve overall comfort.

Speaker 1:

And there's growing interest in CBD's potential to address other challenging symptoms too. For instance, there's research exploring its role in managing oral mucositis.

Speaker 2:

Yes, Oral mucositis is a common side effect of cancer treatment and it can be incredibly painful, making it difficult to eat and swallow.

Speaker 1:

Those painful ulcers in the mouth. I can only imagine how distressing those must be, making it even harder to eat and stay nourished during treatment. What has the research shown so far?

Speaker 2:

One study found that CBD actually facilitated faster healing of these oral lesions in a mice model of oral mucositis. So there's definitely some promise there.

Speaker 1:

It seems like a common threat is emerging here, whether we're talking about anxiety, sleep issues, nausea, pain or these more specific side effects of treatment. Cbd is being investigated for its potential to alleviate suffering and improve quality of life for cancer patients. It's about recognizing that healing is a multifaceted process, isn't it?

Speaker 2:

Absolutely. It's about addressing the whole person their physical, emotional and mental well-being and it's about finding ways to support them throughout their entire cancer journey.

Speaker 1:

Well said. And speaking of supporting patients, let's shift our focus to the potential role of CBD in conjunction with conventional cancer treatments. There's some buzz about CBD actually enhancing the effectiveness of those treatments. Is there any truth to that?

Speaker 2:

There is indeed, and this is where the research gets even more intriguing. We're starting to see evidence that CBD might actually work synergistically with conventional cancer therapies, meaning they might boost each other's effectiveness.

Speaker 1:

So it's not just about managing symptoms on the sidelines. Cbd might actually jump into the ring and team up with those frontline treatments. That's a game changer. Tell me more about this synergy. What have researchers observed?

Speaker 2:

For example, studies have shown that CBD can sensitize cancer cells to cisplatin, a common chemotherapy drug. This essentially means that CBD makes the cancer cells more vulnerable to cisplatin's attack, making the treatment more effective.

Speaker 1:

So it's like CBD is weakening the defenses of the cancer cells, more vulnerable to cisplatin's attack, making the treatment more effective. So it's like CBD is weakening the defenses of the cancer cells, giving cisplatin a clearer shot at taking them down. That's a powerful combination. Are there other examples of this synergistic effect?

Speaker 2:

There are indeed Research suggests that CBD might enhance the effects of gemcitabine in pancreatic cancer, a particularly aggressive form of the disease, and there's evidence suggesting CBD might enhance the effects of radiation therapy as well.

Speaker 1:

It's fascinating how these different compounds CBD, thc and even conventional chemotherapy drugs can interact and potentially enhance each other's effects. It really speaks to the complexity of the human body and the potential for personalized, integrative approaches to treatment.

Speaker 2:

Exactly. It's about finding the right combination of therapies that work together to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient.

Speaker 1:

But of course, as with any potential therapy, there are always considerations and potential risks to keep in mind. What are some of the things we need to be aware of when it comes to CBD and cancer care?

Speaker 2:

Well, one important consideration is the potential for interactions. Cbd can interact with certain medications, so it's crucial to talk to your doctor about any medications you're taking before starting CBD.

Speaker 1:

That's a good reminder. It's never a good idea to start any new supplement or therapy without consulting with your health care provider.

Speaker 2:

Right, and it's especially important in the context of cancer care, where treatment regimens can be complex and involve multiple medications. Your doctor can help you assess the potential risks and benefits of CBD and make sure it's a safe and appropriate option for you.

Speaker 1:

It sounds like open communication with your healthcare team is key.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely. It's about working together to create a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and circumstances.

Speaker 1:

So, while there's still a lot to learn about CBD and its potential role in cancer management, it's clear that this is an exciting area of research with a lot of promise for the future. But we've covered a lot of ground today, and I know our listeners are probably feeling a bit overwhelmed with information.

Speaker 2:

It's a lot to take in, but that's why it's so important to approach this topic with a sense of curiosity and to keep learning.

Speaker 1:

And to remember that knowledge is power. The more you understand about your body and the options available to you, the better equipped you'll be to navigate your health journey.

Speaker 2:

Well said.

Speaker 1:

So we've really gone deep, haven't we, exploring CBD and its potential in cancer management?

Speaker 2:

Yeah, we have. We've talked about the science. You know the potential benefits and the importance of taking like an integrative approach.

Speaker 1:

Right, and I think it's clear that there's a lot of excitement surrounding CBD and its potential to help cancer patients. But as with any emerging field, you know, there's bound to be some misinformation out there.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely, and that's why it's crucial to approach this topic with a critical eye, you know, rely on reputable sources of information and remember that CBD is not a miracle cure.

Speaker 1:

It's definitely not about replacing conventional treatments right.

Speaker 2:

No, it's about exploring all available options and finding what works best for each individual.

Speaker 1:

And it's about having those open and honest conversations with your health care providers to make sure you're making informed decisions.

Speaker 2:

Exactly.

Speaker 1:

So, speaking of informed decisions, I know our listeners are probably wondering where they can go to learn more about CBD and potentially explore how it might fit into their own wellness journey.

Speaker 2:

Well, if you're in Florida and looking for a really great resource for integrative medicine, I highly recommend LifeWellMDcom.

Speaker 1:

Oh yeah, they're fantastic.

Speaker 2:

They specialize in really innovative personalized care that focuses on optimizing your health and well-being.

Speaker 1:

Exactly, and Dr Kumar and his team are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate about empowering patients to take an active role in their health.

Speaker 2:

They really are.

Speaker 1:

And they're all about exploring all the options available to you, not just conventional treatments, but also complementary therapies like CBD and other integrative approaches.

Speaker 2:

It's about finding the right balance for you.

Speaker 1:

Right. So if you're interested in learning more about how LifeWellMDcom can help you on your wellness journey, give them a call at 561-210-9999.

Speaker 2:

You can schedule a consultation and start exploring the possibilities.

Speaker 1:

So, as we wrap up this deep dive into CBD and cancer management, I think the key takeaway here is that, while CBD holds a lot of promise, it's essential to approach it as part of an integrative approach, working in collaboration with qualified health care professionals.

Speaker 2:

Absolutely. It's not about going it alone. It's about building a team of experts who can support you on your journey.

Speaker 1:

And it's about empowering yourself with knowledge and actively participating in your own healthcare decisions.

Speaker 2:

Your health is in your hands.

Speaker 1:

Well said. So thanks for joining us on this deep dive into CBD and cancer management. We hope you found it informative and empowering.

Speaker 2:

And until next time, keep exploring, keep learning and keep diving.