CBD products have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their potential health benefits for adults. However, a growing number of parents are curious about whether CBD, particularly in the form of gummies, is suitable for children. With CBD being marketed as a solution for issues like anxiety, sleep disorders, and even behavioural problems, it’s important to understand the potential risks and benefits.
In this blog, we will provide an overview of what parents should know about giving CBD gummies to children and answer some of the most common questions surrounding this topic.
What Are CBD Gummies?
CBD (cannabidiol) gummies are edible candies that contain CBD, a compound found in the hemp plant. Unlike THC, the psychoactive compound in cannabis, CBD is non-psychoactive and is believed to have several potential therapeutic benefits, such as reducing anxiety, improving sleep, and managing pain.
Gummies are a popular way to consume CBD, as they are easy to take, come in a variety of flavours, and allow for precise dosing. However, CBD’s safety and effectiveness for children are still subjects of ongoing research, and parents should approach the use of CBD gummies with caution.
Is CBD Safe for Children?
While CBD is generally considered safe for adults, there is less research on its safety for children. The only FDA-approved CBD product for children is Epidiolex, a prescription medication used to treat rare forms of epilepsy, such as Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome.
For parents considering giving CBD gummies to children for conditions like anxiety, ADHD, or insomnia, it’s important to note that there is limited clinical research on the effects of CBD on young bodies. Much of the current knowledge comes from anecdotal evidence rather than controlled studies. Therefore, parents should always consult with a paediatrician before giving their child any CBD product.
Conditions Parents Consider CBD Gummies For
Some parents explore CBD as an alternative treatment option for various conditions their children may face. Here are some common reasons why parents might consider CBD gummies for kids:
1. Anxiety and Stress Relief
Children, just like adults, can experience anxiety or stress, and some parents turn to CBD gummies as a potential solution. CBD is thought to interact with the endocannabinoid system in the body, which helps regulate mood, sleep, and appetite. Although studies on children are limited, some parents report improvements in their child’s anxiety after using CBD.
2. Sleep Disorders
Many parents look into CBD gummies as a natural remedy for sleep issues in children, such as insomnia or difficulty falling asleep. Some research suggests that CBD may help regulate sleep patterns by calming the nervous system. However, it's important to remember that evidence is mostly anecdotal, and the use of CBD for sleep in children is not well-documented.
3. ADHD
Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) is another condition that has led parents to explore CBD as a potential treatment option. While some believe that CBD may help with focus and hyperactivity, there is not enough scientific data to support these claims. Parents should be cautious when considering CBD for ADHD and consult with a healthcare professional.
4. Epilepsy
As mentioned earlier, CBD has shown promising results for children with epilepsy, particularly with conditions like Dravet syndrome and Lennox-Gastaut syndrome. For these cases, a CBD-based medication called Epidiolex is available by prescription. It’s one of the few instances where CBD is widely accepted in paediatric medicine.
What Should Parents Consider Before Giving CBD to Children?
If you’re a parent considering CBD gummies for your child, there are several key factors to take into account:
1. Consult with a Healthcare Professional
Before giving your child CBD gummies, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider. CBD can interact with other medications your child may be taking, and a paediatrician can help determine whether it’s safe and appropriate for your child’s specific condition.
2. Check for Third-Party Lab Testing
As with any CBD product, transparency and safety are key. When purchasing CBD gummies, it’s important to look for products that have undergone third-party lab testing. This ensures that the CBD content is accurate and that the product is free from harmful substances like pesticides, heavy metals, and synthetic additives.
3. Choose the Right CBD Dosage
Determining the right dosage of CBD for children is tricky. There is no universal dose that applies to every child, as the effects of CBD can vary based on factors such as weight, age, and the condition being treated. It’s generally recommended to start with a low dose and monitor your child’s response. You can always increase the dosage gradually if necessary, but this should only be done under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
4. Understand the Legalities
In the UK, CBD products are legal as long as they contain less than 1mg of THC per product. However, there is still some confusion and ambiguity surrounding the use of CBD for children. It's vital for parents to check the regulations in their area and ensure that they are purchasing from reputable sources that comply with legal standards.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of CBD Gummies for Children
While CBD is considered relatively safe for adults, there are potential side effects that may occur in children. Some of the common side effects reported include:
- Drowsiness: CBD can have a calming effect, which may cause drowsiness or sleepiness in some children.
- Changes in Appetite: CBD has been known to increase or decrease appetite in users, which may lead to fluctuations in your child’s eating habits.
- Diarrhoea: Some people experience gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhoea when taking CBD, especially if the dosage is too high.
- Interactions with Medication: CBD can interact with certain medications, particularly those that are metabolised by the liver. If your child is taking any medication, it’s crucial to speak to a doctor to avoid potential drug interactions.
Given these potential risks, it’s important to be cautious and carefully monitor your child when introducing CBD gummies to their routine.
Alternatives to CBD for Children
If you are hesitant to try CBD for your child, there are alternative treatments and natural remedies that may help with conditions such as anxiety, sleep disorders, and ADHD. Here are a few options:
- Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT): For conditions like anxiety and ADHD, therapy can be a highly effective treatment. CBT helps children manage their thoughts and emotions in a healthier way.
- Melatonin: For sleep issues, melatonin is a commonly used natural supplement that helps regulate sleep patterns. It may be worth considering before trying CBD.
- Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Teaching children relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing exercises or mindfulness meditation, can help reduce stress and anxiety naturally.
Are CBD Gummies Legal for Children in the UK?
In the UK, CBD products must comply with specific regulations to be legally sold, but there is no specific legislation addressing the use of CBD for children. As long as the CBD product contains less than 1mg of THC and is derived from approved industrial hemp, it is legal for sale.
However, the decision to give CBD to children should be approached with caution. Many healthcare professionals advise against it unless it is a prescribed treatment, such as in the case of epilepsy with Epidiolex.
Parents need to be aware of the legal framework and ensure they are buying CBD products that are compliant with UK law. Additionally, it is wise to avoid giving children any product that contains even trace amounts of THC.
Should You Give CBD Gummies to Your Child?
The decision to give your child CBD gummies is a personal one and should always be made in consultation with a healthcare professional. While CBD may offer potential benefits, especially for children with conditions like epilepsy, there are still many unknowns about how CBD affects young bodies.
For parents who are considering CBD for less severe conditions, such as anxiety or sleep issues, it may be best to explore other options first, such as therapy, natural supplements, or lifestyle changes. If you do choose to give CBD gummies to your child, be sure to start with a low dose, monitor closely for side effects, and only purchase from reputable sources with third-party lab testing.
As research on CBD continues to evolve, parents will have more information to guide their decisions, but for now, caution and professional advice are key.