Health characteristics of recreationally active female cannabidiol users: a real-world cross-sectional study

Introduction: Cannabidiol (CBD) use has increased substantially in the United States alongside expanding legalization of cannabis and hemp-derived products. CBD is widely marketed for recovery, sleep, stress reduction, and overall well-being, yet evidence supporting these claims in healthy, physically active populations remains limited and mixed. Most controlled trials have been conducted in predominantly male cohorts, and emerging data suggest potential sex differences in CBD pharmacokinetics, underscoring the need to characterize female users. Methods: This cross-sectional study examined behavioral and physiologic health correlates of real-world CBD use among recreationally active women aged 18-40 years. Participants completed validated assessments of physical activity (IPAQ), dietary patterns (PrimeScreen), sleep quality (PSQI), mental health (SFMHC), quality of life (QOL), and pain (VAP); a subset completed a 50-marker fasting blood panel. Current CBD users were compared to non-users (past and never users combined). Discussion: CBD use clustered with distinct behavioral and psychosocial characteristics, warranting longitudinal, sex-specific investigation.