Taking part in Dry January is no easy challenge. Here we’ve listed five ways that CBD may help to make it a little bit easier.

Studies show that a third of people who take part in Dry January fail to make it through the full 30 days of the challenge. Despite this, the alcohol-free market is booming with the industry predicted to rise to $24 billion in the next four years.

The CBD drinks industry is also increasing in size. There are now multiple options for nights out, nights in or even morning after coffee replacements.

We look at 5 reasons that CBD could help you make it through the rest of the month tee-total.

1 – Health benefits

Alcohol isn’t exactly known for its health benefits. Although there is some debate about the occasional glass of red wine, most alcohol, especially drank in larger quantities may cause damage. Heavy drinking can raise your blood cholesterol levels and increase your risk of a heart attack.

It can also leave long term effects on your mental health increasing depression, memory problems, insomnia and also anxiety.

Adding a drop or two of oil to your soft drink may not sound like much but the health benefits could give you an added boost.

Even being selective about the carrier oil that the CBD is in could work to your advantage. CBD is added to a carrier oil to aid absorption in the body. The most common oils are MCT, hemp seed oil or olive oil.

Hemp seed oil contains omega three and six fatty acids which are essential for the body. It is also high in antioxidants. Some studies show that MCT oil may aid weight loss by reducing appetite and increasing metabolism. Alternatively, olive oil is high in vitamins K, E and iron.

2 – Better skin

Alcohol can have a damaging effect on our skin. As we drink, it reduces the production of an anti-diuretic hormone causing us to lose water and sodium more quickly. As a result, our skin is one of the first places we notice the effects of a heavy night out.

Reducing alcohol intake or even a few weeks alcohol-free should cause a reduction in redness, pore size and also increase hydration in the skin.

A study showed that CBD may be anti-inflammatory when it comes to multiple sclerosis inflammation. CBD may interact with two receptors, CB1 and CB2 that are found in the body helping to soothe an inflammatory response.

Another small study from 2019 measured the response in 20 participants suffering from scarring, psoriasis or eczema. It discovered that CBD may help to improve skin hydration, moisture and prevent water loss. The researcher stated this may be due to the fatty acids in the topical used or its anti-inflammatory properties.

3- Hangover free and better sleep

We’ve all been there when you wake up from the morning after the night before with a pounding head and dry mouth. One of the best parts to dry January or sober living is the feeling of waking up hangover-free.

Even though we aren’t topping up our favourite tipples, we can still enjoy a late night. It can be really hard to get to sleep after a party or evening with friends, especially as alcohol is normally a sedative.

A few drops of CBD, a carefully applied patch or even a capsule popped before bed could help you get some well-deserved rest before enjoying a headache-free morning.

A study examined if CBD could help sleep or anxiety. Researchers took 72 participants with anxiety and poor sleep. They were given 25 mg of CBD in a capsule daily. Within the first month, 79.2 per cent reported lower anxiety levels while 66.7 per cent reported better sleep as a result.

4 – Alcohol replacement

Soft drinks aren’t always the answer. Juice has a lot of calories and sweeteners that can cause tooth problems over time. Caffeinated drinks such as Coke can cause sleeplessness when drank in large quantities.

It can be difficult to choose something different in venues as the level of choice is not the same. The popularity of CBD drinks is making it easier to find alternatives out there. Some venues are now offering CBD cocktails or beer on their menu however this remains a relatively untapped market.

House parties or social gatherings can be easier as you can bring your ‘beer’ with you. Pre-mixed CBD drinks offer great alternatives to vodka, gin or other spirits. They look almost the same as their alcoholic counterparts meaning it’s difficult for people to tell the difference. This is a perfect option if you are missing the feel of a drink or tired of drinking countless orange juices or diet cokes.

5 – Anxiety

Sometimes not drinking can cause anxiety especially if someone has quit for health reasons or if they have experienced issues with addiction. It may even be the thought of entering a party or spending time with multiple people that causes a person to feel anxiety.

Adding a few drops of CBD or taking a tincture before a party may help to reduce anxiety. A person may also experience a low mood when thinking about the evening ahead of them or feel pressured to take part in the drinking.

CBD may have a positive interaction with the hormone, serotonin in our brains. Serotonin is involved with a lot of different functions in our bodies but it impacts a person’s happiness and emotional well-being. Low serotonin levels are associated with depression. A review of studies showed that CBD may have anti-stress effects that could reduce depression and anxiety.

One of the most common New Year’s resolutions is to eat a healthier diet. We give you five reasons to consider adding hemp to your meals

January usually marks the start of new beginnings and promises for the year ahead. One of the more common resolutions is to start eating healthier.

Hemp is considered a superfood that can help with your fibre and protein intake. It also contains fatty acids essential for a healthy body.

Here are five ways hemp can help to make your diet healthier and how to incorporate it into your meals.

Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids

Omega fatty acids are essential fats that we need in our diets. They are polyunsaturated fats which means that they cannot be manufactured by the body.

There are a number of different foods that contain fatty acids such as oily fish, nuts or plant oils. Hemp is also a great source of Omega 3 and 6 which are associated with improvements in skin, heart health and mental health.

Omega 3 is thought to help reduce cholesterol that can build up in the arteries leading to heart disease. Although studies have shown that it may reduce the levels of LDL, low-density lipoprotein, or bad cholesterol.

Protein

Hemp seeds are considered a complete protein source. This means they produce all nine amino acids needed to create protein. These amino acids cannot be manufactured by the body so must be absorbed through food. The amino acid arginine is particularly good for heart health and regulating blood flow.

The body breaks protein into these amino acids then they are absorbed into the body. Protein may also help to heal injuries, boost the immune system while helping the kidneys process waste. Bodybuilders and athletes rely on protein supplements to help aid muscle growth and recovery.

Hemp seeds are more than 3o per cent protein.

Niacin

Niacin is a B vitamin that turns food into energy. It is made naturally by our bodies although it can be found in food sources too. It helps to keep our nervous system, skin and digestive systems functional. Niacin is water-soluble so our bodies have a difficult time holding on to it.

Our bodies discard excess niacin through urine. Signs that you are experiencing a niacin deficiency include vomiting, a red tongue, depression, fatigue and memory loss.

It is thought that niacin may help with type 1 diabetes where the body attacks and destroys our insulin supply. Studies show that it may protect cells and lower the risk of developing diabetes in children with an increased risk. When it comes to type 2 diabetes which is mainly controlled through diet, it may help to reduce cholesterol. Those taking niacin with type 2 diabetes need to monitor their sugar intake carefully.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is often associated with healthy hair, skin and nails. It also helps to strengthen the immune system meaning it could help to fight off winter colds.

It is often added to skin care due to its antioxidant properties that may fight UV damage. It can also protect from damage caused by free radicals.  It may be effective in treating dry or flaky skin caused by eczema or psoriasis as it is hydrating.

One study from 2015 found that oral vitamin E capsules helped to reduce the symptoms of eczema such as itching. A group of 70 patients with atopic dermatitis (AD), were given either the capsules or a placebo. Those on the capsules reported an improvement in all of their symptoms at the end of the three month monitoring period.

While this study is concentrated on capsules, there are a lot of different topical options such as creams or lotions containing hemp which may offer some relief for eczema.

Two tablespoons of hemp seeds should contain 15.4 mg of vitamin E.

Fibre

We all need a source of fibre in our diet to maintain a healthy gut and bowels.

Most of the fibre that is found in hemp seeds is in the outer shell or husk. Although there is still plenty of fibre to be found on the inside of the seeds.

Adding fibre to your diet can help to reduce your appetite while balancing blood sugar levels.

How do I eat hemp?

There are lots of different ways to include hemp in your diet.

Seeds

Hemp seeds have a hard outer shell that can be split apart to reveal a softer kernel. The seeds can be easily added to salads, bread, yoghurts or cereal. As they are plant-based, the seeds can be an excellent source of protein for vegetarians.

Oil

Hemp oil can be added to salad or bread can be dipped into it. It is not usually used for frying because it has a low smoke point which means you could end up with a very smoky kitchen.

Alternatively, hemp oil can be added to baking such as bread, cakes or pizza bases.

Milk

Plant milk has exploded in popularity in recent years. While almond, soy and oat are the leading plant alternatives, hemp milk is also available in supermarkets.

It is made by soaking the plant seeds in water then sweeteners may be added for flavour. It has fewer carbohydrates, protein and fat than cow’s milk.

Rebel Wine share the benefits of their CBD infused wine and how it makes the perfect festive drink, or present, for your loved ones.

Looking for the ultimate 2021 Christmas present, or any present for that matter?

Gift tubes, of CBD infused wine, are just the ticket. Each tube contains three Rebel cans of award-winning wines, Merlot, Sauvignon Blanc and Rosé,  infused with 10mgs of CBD.

Rebel wines and CBD

Suffice to say, some people maintain this unique combination of CBD and wine may actually cure your hangover before you even get it.

Rebel wine is the UK’s first and only CBD infused wine. Using quality, award-winning wine from South Africa and France, each can provide one large glass of wine, infused with high quality, broad Spectrum, organic Hemp. This includes 10mg of CBD per 200ml can.

The wine is in 5 varieties: Red, White and Rosé plus brand new “Skinny Rebel” White and Rosé Spritzers. They are low alcohol and low calorie. All our cans feature individual ‘Alberto Vargas’ style images, painted for us by Fiona Stephenson, on each product. These have been much admired by all. Our wine is 100% Vegan.

We have even won awards with our first one being a Bronze at the Canex 2020 Awards in the “Best CBD Beverages category”. Our latest award, from GHP magazine, is “The most Innovative CBD beverage 2012”

Questions we’re often asked:

What is CBD?

CBD is an entirely natural substance extracted from the Hemp plant, a close cousin of the Cannabis plant. Humans have used CBD for relaxation and pain relief for thousands of years.

Great for stress, anxiety, insomnia, depression, pain etc. It’s natural, safe and completely legal.

There is still a lot of education required by the Hemp and CBD industry to raise awareness and reassure the customer that it’s quite safe.

Wine with CBD?

CBD can taste horrible; wine is delicious. Combine the two for all the benefits of both, plus of course a fantastic flavour. We use award-winning South African and French wines in our cans, so quality and flavour are guaranteed.

Why Cans?

Cans are the most efficient container currently available. Light, recyclable, low carbon and very convenient, our cans are the perfect size for travel, picnics, festivals and outdoor events or a quiet glass on your own. No wastage and easily chilled. They also make fabulous gifts.

Our wine is fun. But, there is a serious side to CBD which we advocate strongly having spoken to many people in recent months and taking this ourselves in oil format.

Our customers told stories of the positive effect CBD had on themselves or their family and friends and shared those with us. From Fybromyalgia, Osteo-arthritis and Parkinsons to MS, Support Chemotherapy treatment and cancer treatments to name a few.

We know this fabulous substance is more than just a passing phase and are delighted to be associated with an industry that gathers more information every week with successes and research.

Our wine is a great way to add CBD into your lifestyle if you are already a CBD user and enjoy a glass or two of wine, but it’s also great fun, a talking point, spreading the word about CBD and provides a little extra magic with every can.

To order Gift packs or individual cans please click here; www.rebelwine.co.uk. Enter REBEL10 to get your 10% Christmas discount and have a fabulous CBD infused Christmas.

We say: ‘If you follow all the rules, you miss all the fun!’