The cannabis industry is changing, fast! And for the largest part, Gen-Z teens are front-running this new dynamic market shift. CBD (cannabidiol) products have become increasingly mainstream, from oils and gummies to skincare and now beverages.
One rising trend catching the attention of young consumers, especially Gen-Z, is CBD-infused drinks. These drinks are marketed as stress relievers and mood boosters and are often packaged in colorful, aesthetic cans. You’ve probably seen them in one of those flashy Instagram stories or TikTok videos.
But while they may appear trendy, we all know too well that looks can be deceiving. So, the most important question every parent should be asking is, are CBD drinks safe for Gen-Z teens?X
What is CBD, Anyway?
CBD is a compound found in the cannabis plant, but unlike its cousin THC, it doesn’t produce a “high.” It’s typically extracted from hemp and is legal in many countries as long as it contains less than 0.3% THC.
Some beverages, the likes of LittleRick’s 5mg THC drinks aim at maintaining the perfect CBD-THC balance for a controlled ‘high’. People use it for various purposes, including managing anxiety and sleep issues and relieving pain.
Why Are Teens Interested?
Gen-Z is a wellness-obsessed, but still highly stressed generation. Talk about academic pressures, climate anxiety, and a hyper-connected digital life, it can all be overwhelming.
It’s no surprise that many teens are looking for healthy ways to cope. CBD drinks promise relaxation but without the risks of alcohol or drugs. Besides, they’re often seen as more “natural” than pharmaceutical solutions.
Not to mention, branding plays a huge role. Many CBD beverages are wrapped in sleek, minimalist packaging. Then there’s the use of buzzwords like “plant-based,” “organic,” or “adaptogenic”. All this makes the allure too irresistible to a younger, health-conscious demographic.
These individuals spend more money than previous generations on products and services that support both physical and mental health and prioritize fitness, mindfulness, and preventive care from an early age.
So, Are They Safe?
This is where things get a bit tricky. While CBD is generally considered safe for adults, the research around its use, especially in adolescents, is limited. The FDA has not approved CBD for use in food or beverages for anyone, let alone teens.
Here’s what experts are saying;
- Lack of long-term research: Studies on CBD’s effects are still in the early stages, and so very little is known about its impact on teens’ developing brains. Teens are still going through critical neurological growth. Therefore, introducing cannabinoids, even non-psychoactive ones, could have unforeseen consequences.
- Dosage uncertainty: There’s no standardized dose for CBD, and many beverages don’t clearly label how much is in each serving. Even if it is indeed listed, it’s hard to tell if the info is indeed accurate.
- Side effects: Too much CBD can cause side effects like drowsiness, upset stomach, and in rare cases, liver issues. For teens who are still growing and developing, these side effects could be more pronounced or have unforeseen consequences.
- Possible interactions: CBD can interact with other medications, including those for anxiety, ADHD, and depression. These are conditions that many teens might already be managing. CBD could potentially interact with these medications, altering their effectiveness or causing adverse reactions.
- False sense of safety: Just because a product is marketed as “natural” doesn’t mean it’s risk-free. Teens might underestimate the potential effects or use CBD drinks as a coping mechanism instead of seeking professional help for mental health struggles.
Parental Guidance and Open Conversations
Apparently, any responsible parent, or guardian, would be concerned about the possibility of something going wrong. So, how can you stay safe and avoid any unwanted occurrence?
Do Your Homework
Educating yourself, and your teen, about the risks involved, how to steer clear of them, and how to handle the situation should anything go wrong. Teens are often exposed to mixed messages and may underestimate the risks, so it’s crucial to provide accurate, balanced information early.
Be Open About the Risks
Discuss the potential for risks to escalate into a living nightmare. Stress the importance of making the right decisions to keep their safety first.
Make sure your teen is free to communicate with you about anything CBD-related. They should be comfortable discussing their preferences, decisions, and concerns with you.
Seek Professional Advice
In case you’re unsure whether it’s safe for a teen to use CBD, consult with a professional. They can offer you important guidance that could help you be proactive when exploring the use of CBD.
What are the Regulations?
The sale and consumption of CBD, in general, have seen mixed reactions. So far, most countries do not allow it to be marketed as a dietary supplement or food additive, though enforcement varies.
In the U.S., the FDA has issued warnings to companies making health claims about it without sufficient evidence. Some states allow the sale of CBD drinks, while others prohibit it entirely.
For minors, the rules are even more restrictive. Most CBD products are labeled “not for use under 18,” but we all know enforcement can be spotty. More importantly, for drinks sold online or in stores that don’t verify age.
The Wrap-Up
Trendy and harmless as they may seem, CBD drinks can still be dangerous if misused. There’s still a need for more research and a clear definition of regulation guidelines. Overall, teens should enjoy these drinks responsibly.