The Endocannabinoid System (ECS)

What is The Endocannabinoid System?

Each of us have our own unique, built-in endocannabinoid system. Learning how to tap into that system is one tool that you can use to help regulate your nervous system. Regulating your nervous system is one factor of health that is crucial for optimal hormone and gut health. Think of the human body as a network of systems each with their own organ(s) and all interconnected in a way that powers on the human body to function at it’s best. Ideally, you want to reach a state of being where all systems are operating around 90% and above the majority of the time so that you can perform daily tasks without fatigue, a sluggish digestive system, skin issues, mood swings, or chronic pain.

Our bodies have a network of endocannabinoid receptors, CB1 and CB2 receptors, spread at various locations within the human body and the brain. The CB1 receptors are primarily located within the brain and also in the liver, kidneys, and lungs while the CB2 receptors are located in the immune system throughout the body. They help to regulate appetite, mood, energy levels, pain control, emotional regulation, and so much more. To stimulate these receptors, our bodies produce molecules called endocannabinoids.

What is The Role of the Endocannabinoid System?

• Regulates emotions related to fear, anxiety, and stress responses
• Affects the quality of your sleep via regulating neurotransmitters involved in the sleep-wake cycle: serotonin and melatonin.
• Regulates appetite
• Memory
• Pain Regulation

What are conditions associated with a dysregulated endocannabinoid system?

• Anxiety
• Chronic Stress
• Chronic Pain
• Depression
• IBS which is often associated with a dysregulated nervous system via the brain-gut axis connected by the vagus nerve leading to “IBS” symptoms
• PTSD
• CPTSD

What are root causes of A Dysregulated Endocannabinoid System?

• Chronic Stress
• Genetic SNP’s (Single Nucleotide Polymorphism) in your DNA leading to a highly alert nervous system
• Chronic Inflammation
• Lack of a nutrient dense diet
• Lack of regular physical activity

How can i use lab testing to assess the state of my endocannabinoid system?

Nutrigenomics Testing: The 3X4 Genetics Test + Blueprint Report is a comprehensive genetic test that can help you understand your genetic makeup and its effects on your well-being. 

Assessing biomarkers related to chronic stress such as free cortisol, metabolized cortisol, waking melatonin, DHEA production, fasting glucose, and HbA1c.

My storefront is linked here to order functional labs, which is signed off by a nationally-licensed physician, to assess for gut imbalances, hormonal imbalances, or vitamin/mineral deficiencies. If you need help creating a personalized functional nutrition care plan based on the interpretation of any of the above functional labs, you can work with us here.