Why People Should Be Careful About Smoking, Inhaling, or Vaping CBD, Supplements and Other 'Holistic' Substances
In recent years, the popularity of vaping and smoking supplements and holistic substances like CBD has surged. While these methods of consumption offer convenience and quick effects, they come with significant risks, especially when it comes to lung health. The lungs are one of the largest and most vital organs in the body, responsible for oxygenating the blood and removing carbon dioxide. So it only makes sense why it's crucial to understand the potential dangers associated with introducing foreign substances into the lungs.Digging Into The Importance of Lung Health
Your lungs are Respiratory Rockstars, working tirelessly behind the scenes to harness oxygen and distribute it to each cell in your body, making every function, from walking to thinking, possible. Like a watchdog, these filters steadfastly guard against harmful particles, making sure they don't enter the bloodstream. Given their critical function, any damage to the lungs can have widespread and severe health implications. This is why regulatory bodies like the FDA are particularly stringent when it comes to approving substances intended for inhalation.What is The Role of the FDA in Ensuring Safety?
As the watchdog for public health, the FDA vigilantly monitors the development and distribution of drugs, biological products, and medical devices to guarantee they're both safe and effective. This includes a rigorous evaluation process for substances intended for inhalation. Respiratory woes and other health headaches are why the FDA is sounding the alarm about untested substances - the risks just aren't worth it.The FDA doesn't take anything at face value, so it orders up a thorough investigation of every substance via testing and clinical trials to examine its safety, quality, and efficacy from all angles. This ensures that any approved product has been thoroughly evaluated for potential risks and side effects. When it comes to vaping supplements or holistic substances, the FDA's stringent regulations are even more critical due to the direct impact these products have on lung health.
Understanding the Risks of Vaping CBD and Other Supplements
Chemical Exposure
Vaping devices heat a liquid to create an aerosol that users inhale.Vaping devices run on a cocktail of chemicals, each one packing its own punch of pros and cons.
Common Ingredients
The typical e-liquid formula includes a combination of:
- Propylene glycol (PG) : a common food additive used to create the vapor.
- Vegetable glycerin (VG) : a plant-based substance that helps to create a thicker vapor.
- Flavorings : natural or artificial additives that give the e-liquid its distinct taste and aroma.
Potentially Harmful Additives:
In addition to these common ingredients, some e-liquids may contain other substances that can be harmful to human health, including:
- Diacetyl : a chemical linked to respiratory problems and popcorn lung.
- Heavy metals : such as lead, mercury, and arsenic, which can be toxic in high concentrations.
- Ultrafine particles : tiny particles that can be inhaled deep into the lungs, causing damage and inflammation.
It is essential to note that not all e-liquids contain these harmful additives, and some manufacturers take steps to ensure their products are safe and free from toxins. Because regulation is basically non-existent, users are left to police themselves, constantly on the lookout for ways to maintain their health and avoid potential pitfalls.
When heated, these chemicals can decompose and produce toxic byproducts that are harmful to the lungs.
Lung Irritation and Damage
Inhaling foreign substances can cause irritation and inflammation of the lung tissues. Over time, this can lead to chronic respiratory conditions such as bronchitis, asthma, and even more severe lung diseases.
Unknown Long-Term Effects
The long-term effects of vaping CBD and other supplements are still largely unknown. While some studies suggest potential benefits, the lack of comprehensive research means that the full spectrum of risks is not yet understood. This uncertainty underscores the importance of caution and the need for further research as Johns Hopkins references.
Addiction Potential
Many vaping liquids contain nicotine, which is highly addictive. Even products labeled as nicotine-free can sometimes contain trace amounts. The addictive nature of nicotine can lead to dependency and other health issues related to prolonged use.
Contaminants and Quality Control
The supplement industry is not as tightly regulated as pharmaceuticals, leading to variability in product quality. Contaminants such as heavy metals, pesticides, and other harmful substances can be present in vaping liquids, posing additional risks to users.
CBD Vape Side Effects
Riding the waves of attention, CBD, a key extract from the cannabis plant, is today's rising star in the world of natural healing. While CBD is generally considered safe when taken orally, vaping introduces different risks.
Respiratory Issues
Vaping CBD can cause respiratory issues similar to those caused by other vaping products. These include coughing, wheezing, and shortness of breath.
Potential for Toxicity
The heating process in vaping can alter the chemical structure of CBD and other ingredients, potentially leading to the production of harmful compounds.
Interaction with Medications
CBD can interact with various medications, affecting their efficacy and leading to adverse effects. Inhalation of CBD can result in higher bioavailability, increasing the risk of these interactions.
Why Caution is Essential
Given the potential risks and the FDA's cautious approach, it is vital for consumers to be well-informed and exercise caution when considering vaping CBD or other supplements. Here are a few steps to take:
- Consult Healthcare Professionals: Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen, especially if it involves vaping or inhalation.
- Research Products Thoroughly: Look for products that have undergone third-party testing for purity and safety. Reputable brands will provide transparency about their ingredients and manufacturing processes.
- Be Aware of Symptoms: Pay attention to any changes in respiratory health or other side effects and seek medical advice if you experience adverse symptoms.
Leading expert, Dr. Thanavala states“While cannabis has proven health benefits in pain management, sleep, relieving the symptoms of chemotherapy-induced nausea/vomiting in cancer patients, and in patients experiencing seizures, there is simply a lack of robust evidence about cannabis safety when delivered from vaping products.”
Why NextEvo Chooses to Only Produce Edible CBD and Topical Creams
At NextEvo, the commitment to safety and quality is paramount. This commitment is reflected in the decision to focus exclusively on producing edible CBD products and topical creams. The rationale behind this choice is twofold: enhanced safety testing and the stringent regulatory standards set by the FDA for these types of consumption.
Enhanced Safety Testing
Edible CBD products and topical creams undergo rigorous testing to ensure their safety and efficacy. These tests assess the quality of the ingredients, the presence of contaminants, and the accurate dosage of CBD. The extensive testing helps to ensure that the products are safe for consumers and free from harmful substances. This meticulous approach aligns with NextEvo’s mission to provide high-quality, reliable CBD products that consumers can trust.
NextEvo's View On FDA Regulatory Standards
The FDA plays a crucial role in overseeing the safety of CBD products, particularly those intended for consumption. The agency requires thorough testing and clear labeling of edible CBD products and topical creams. This rigorous oversight is designed to protect consumers and ensure that products are accurately represented and safe to use.
Unlike vaping or inhalation methods, which pose significant risks due to the potential for lung irritation and the unknown long-term effects, edible and topical CBD products are considered safer when produced and tested according to FDA guidelines. The FDA’s stringent regulatory framework for these products provides an added layer of assurance for consumers, making them a preferred choice for companies like NextEvo.
By focusing on edibles and topicals, NextEvo can meet high safety standards and provide effective, reliable products that enhance well-being without compromising health.
Conclusion
Lung health matters, and vaping supplements and holistic substances shouldn't blind us to the potential risks involved. The FDA's stringent approval process serves as a reminder of the importance of safety and efficacy in products intended for inhalation. By being informed and cautious, consumers can make better decisions and protect their health while exploring the potential benefits of CBD and other supplements.
