Does Chris Bell Consume Kratom?
- Key Takeaways
- Who Is Chris Bell? Understanding the Documentary Filmmaker
- Current Evidence: Chris Bell's Confirmed Kratom Use
- What Is Kratom? Understanding This Herbal Supplement
- Kratom Benefits: What Users Report and Research Suggests
- FDA Kratom Position: Regulatory Status and Warnings
- Quality Matters: How to Identify Lab-Tested Kratom
- Different Kratom Strains: Understanding Vein Colors and Effects
- How to Use Kratom Safely: Dosage and Best Practices
- Frequently Asked Questions
Chris Bell, the documentary filmmaker behind “A Leaf of Faith,” has been open about his personal relationship with kratom as a tool for managing chronic pain and reducing dependence on pharmaceutical painkillers. His journey with this Southeast Asian botanical led him to create a full-length documentary exploring its potential benefits and controversies. For those interested in exploring high-quality kratom options similar to what Bell used, EZKratom offers premium lab-tested kratom powder sourced directly from Indonesia with consistent quality and potency.
Key Takeaways
- Chris Bell publicly confirmed kratom use – The documentary filmmaker used large daily doses of kratom starting around 2016 to manage chronic pain following his six-year struggle with opiate addiction
- Kratom served as a harm reduction tool – Bell reported that kratom “alleviated his incessant pains, and thus, killed his desire for painkillers,” helping him reduce pharmaceutical dependence
- Scientific distinction from traditional opioids – Kratom alkaloids function as partial agonists with functional selectivity for G-protein signaling, showing a unique pharmacological profile distinct from conventional opioids
- Growing but limited user base – An estimated 1.7 million Americans aged 12 and older used kratom in 2021, with approximately 0.7% of the U.S. population reporting past-year use
- Research is evolving – Major institutions like Johns Hopkins University and the University of Florida are conducting federally-funded clinical research to better understand kratom’s safety profile and therapeutic potential
Who Is Chris Bell? Understanding the Documentary Filmmaker
Chris Bell is best known as an American documentary filmmaker whose work often explores complex issues surrounding substance use in American culture. His 2008 film “Bigger, Stronger, Faster*” examined steroid use among athletes and the broader cultural implications of performance enhancement. Bell’s personal connection to substance use issues became even more pronounced when he lost his older brother to prescription pills and faced his own six-year struggle with opiate addiction.
This personal experience with the devastating effects of the opioid crisis led Bell to explore alternative approaches to addiction recovery. His interest in kratom emerged as a potential solution that could address both his chronic pain and reduce his reliance on pharmaceutical painkillers.
Chris Bell’s Documentary Work on Kratom
In 2018, Bell released “A Leaf of Faith,” a documentary specifically focused on kratom (Mitragyna speciosa). The film emerged directly from Bell’s personal experience and his research into the botanical’s potential benefits. Through his documentary, Bell aimed to present a balanced view of kratom while advocating for its potential as a harm reduction tool for those struggling with opioid dependence.
According to Bell’s public statements documented in a 2016 report from MEL Magazine, his motivation for both using and documenting kratom stemmed from witnessing its positive effects not only in his own life but also in the lives of others close to him, including his friend Matt Wiese, a former WWE wrestler who similarly attributed his freedom from opioid addiction to kratom.
Current Evidence: Chris Bell’s Confirmed Kratom Use
Unlike many questions about celebrity supplement use, Chris Bell’s kratom consumption is well-documented through multiple first-hand sources and his own public statements.
Publicly Available Statements
According to a 2016 report from MEL Magazine, Chris Bell was taking large daily doses of kratom at the time he was filming “A Leaf of Faith.” The article directly quotes Bell stating that kratom “alleviated his incessant pains, and thus, killed his desire for painkillers.” This first-hand reporting provides clear evidence of Bell’s personal use and his stated reasons for consumption.
Bell was described as a “true believer in the drug” who was also convinced that the Food and Drug Administration planned to criminalize kratom’s sale and distribution. His advocacy stemmed from his genuine belief in kratom’s potential to help others facing similar struggles with opioid dependence.
Consumption Patterns
The MEL Magazine report documented Bell’s specific consumption patterns, noting that he took approximately one teaspoon (roughly 3.8 grams) of kratom powder multiple times throughout the day. This aligns with typical kratom usage patterns reported by regular users, who self-report using less than 6 grams per consumption session.
Bell’s first dose typically occurred early in the morning, with 2-3 additional doses consumed over the course of the day. This pattern suggests he was using kratom both for its stimulant-like effects at lower doses, which is consistent with reported kratom effects.
What Is Kratom? Understanding This Herbal Supplement
Kratom (Mitragyna speciosa) is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia, particularly countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and Thailand. For centuries, indigenous populations have used kratom leaves traditionally to combat fatigue, manage pain, and treat various ailments. The leaves contain over 40 alkaloids, though most scientific research focuses on two primary compounds: mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine.
Botanical Origins and History
Kratom has been used traditionally in Southeast Asian cultures for hundreds of years. Workers in physically demanding jobs would chew fresh leaves to boost energy and endurance, while others used it to manage pain and address various health concerns. In traditional contexts, kratom was rarely consumed in the concentrated forms available in Western markets today.
The botanical gained attention in Western countries in the early 2000s as individuals began seeking alternatives to pharmaceutical pain management and addiction treatment. As of 2025, kratom remains in a regulatory gray area in the United States, neither approved as a medication nor federally prohibited.
Active Compounds in Kratom
The primary active alkaloids in kratom are mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine. Mitragynine accounts for approximately 2% of kratom preparations by mass but up to 66% of total alkaloid content. In contrast, 7-hydroxymitragynine is present in far lower quantities, generally under 0.02% of total content.
These compounds interact with opioid receptors in the brain but with a unique pharmacological profile. According to research published in Nature, “Mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine function as partial agonists of the human µ-opioid receptor… Importantly, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine demonstrate functional selectivity for G-protein signaling, with no measurable recruitment of β-arrestin.” This “biased agonism” may explain why kratom can provide relief without some of the severe respiratory depression typical of traditional opioids.
Kratom Benefits: What Users Report and Research Suggests
While kratom has not been approved by the FDA for any medical use, users like Chris Bell report various benefits, and preliminary research suggests potential therapeutic applications.
Mood Enhancement
Beyond addiction recovery, users report mood-enhancing effects from kratom. A clinical case study documented a 63-year-old man who used kratom 3-4 times daily for seven years to manage major depression and generalized anxiety disorder. The main effects reported were calming hyperarousal, stopping rumination, reducing job-related anxiety, and enhancing sociability, along with mild euphoria.
At EZKratom, we offer various strains that users report provide different benefits. For those seeking energy and focus similar to what Bell might have experienced in the morning, our white vein kratom for energy is popular among customers. For evening relaxation and sleep support, our red vein kratom for sleep is formulated to promote calming effects.
FDA Kratom Position: Regulatory Status and Warnings
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration maintains a cautious stance on kratom, emphasizing safety concerns while acknowledging ongoing research.
What FDA Warnings Mean for Consumers
While the FDA’s warnings highlight legitimate safety concerns, they also underscore the importance of product quality and responsible use. Consumers should be aware that:
- Kratom products are not regulated as drugs or dietary supplements under federal law
- Product quality and safety can vary dramatically between vendors
- The regulatory landscape continues to evolve as research emerges
This is why quality standards matter significantly. At EZKratom, we follow GMP-compliant kratom product standards and provide third-party lab testing to ensure purity and consistency.
Quality Matters: How to Identify Lab-Tested Kratom
Given the FDA’s concerns about contamination and inconsistent product quality, consumers should prioritize vendors who demonstrate commitment to quality assurance and transparency.
What Lab Testing Should Include
Comprehensive lab testing for kratom should include:
- Microbial testing: Screening for harmful bacteria like Salmonella and E. coli
- Heavy metals testing: Analysis for lead, arsenic, mercury, and cadmium
- Alkaloid profiling: Measurement of mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine content
- Purity verification: Confirmation of absence of adulterants or fillers
The American Kratom Association (AKA) has established vendor standards that include these testing requirements, and reputable vendors should be willing to provide current lab results upon request.
GMP Compliance and Quality Standards
Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) provide a framework for consistent quality and safety in production processes. While kratom is not currently regulated under federal GMP requirements, responsible vendors like EZKratom implement GMP-compliant practices internally to ensure products are properly tracked and recorded.
Our commitment to quality includes running all powder through an electric sieve machine and sourcing directly from trusted Indonesian farmers we’ve worked with since 2016/2017. All of our kratom powders go through full panel lab testing to ensure they meet the highest standards for quality and safety.
For those wanting to try different strains to find what works best for their needs, we offer a kratom sample pack that allows you to discover your preferred varieties with confidence in quality and safety.
Different Kratom Strains: Understanding Vein Colors and Effects
Kratom is commonly categorized by vein color, which generally correlates with different effect profiles. Understanding these differences can help users make more informed choices about which varieties might best suit their needs.
Red Vein: Relaxation and Sleep Support
Red vein kratom varieties, such as Red Maeng Da and Red Borneo, are typically associated with calming and sedative effects. Users often report that red vein strains help promote better sleep, enhance mental clarity, and provide relief from discomfort. These varieties are generally recommended for evening use when relaxation and sleep support are desired.
White Vein: Energy and Focus
White vein kratom strains, including White Maeng Da and White Horn, are typically associated with stimulating effects. Users report that white vein varieties are excellent for boosting energy early in the morning and serve as a caffeine alternative. These strains are generally recommended for morning or daytime use when focus and energy are priorities.
Green Vein: Balanced Effects
Green vein kratom varieties, such as Green Maeng Da and Green Malay, typically offer a balance between the stimulating effects of white vein and the calming effects of red vein. Users report that green vein strains promote improvement in mental health and can be enjoyed at any time throughout the day. These versatile varieties are often recommended for those new to kratom or seeking balanced, all-day support.
Yellow Vein: Mood and Concentration
Yellow vein kratom is a newer category that typically involves special processing methods. Yellow Maeng Da, for example, is reported to provide relief from discomfort, improved concentration and focus, as well as mood-lifting benefits. These strains are often recommended for morning use when both mental clarity and mood enhancement are desired.
At EZKratom, we offer a range of vein colors to meet different needs. Our premium liquid kratom extract provides a fast-acting alternative to traditional powders, with precise 100mg mitragynine per 30ml bottle for those seeking immediate effects.
How to Use Kratom Safely: Dosage and Best Practices
For those considering kratom use, understanding safe practices and appropriate dosing is essential for minimizing risks and maximizing potential benefits.
Starting Doses for New Users
For beginners, it’s crucial to start with low doses to assess individual sensitivity and response. General guidelines suggest:
- Low dose (1-2 grams): Primarily stimulating effects, increased energy, and focus
- Moderate dose (2-4 grams): Balanced effects, mild relief with some stimulation
- Higher dose (4-6 grams): Primarily sedative effects, relaxation
Regular kratom users self-report using less than 6 grams per consumption, which provides a reasonable upper limit for most users.
Powder vs Liquid Extract Considerations
Kratom is available in various forms, each with different considerations:
- Powder: Most traditional form, allows for precise dosing, can be mixed with liquids or made into tea
- Capsules: Convenient, taste-free option, but may have a slower onset due to digestion time
- Liquid extract: Fast-acting with quicker absorption, precise dosing, but typically more potent per serving
Our kratom dosage guidelines can help you determine appropriate starting doses based on your experience level and desired effects.
Timing Your Kratom Use
The timing of kratom consumption can significantly impact the experience:
- Morning: White and yellow vein varieties for energy and focus
- Afternoon: Green vein varieties for balanced, sustained effects
- Evening: Red vein varieties for relaxation and sleep support
Taking kratom on an empty stomach typically produces faster onset and more pronounced effects, while consuming it with food may slow absorption but reduce the risk of nausea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Has Chris Bell publicly stated he uses kratom?
A: Yes, Chris Bell has publicly confirmed his kratom use in multiple sources. According to a 2019 report from MEL Magazine, Bell was taking large daily doses of kratom while filming his documentary “A Leaf of Faith.” He stated that kratom “alleviated his incessant pains, and thus, killed his desire for painkillers.”
Q: Is kratom legal for documentary filmmakers or public figures to use?
A: Kratom’s legal status varies by location, but as of 2025, it remains legal at the federal level in the United States while being prohibited in some states and municipalities. Public figures like Chris Bell can legally use kratom in locations where it’s permitted, provided they are 21 or older. However, they should be aware that kratom is not approved by the FDA for any medical use and may be subject to workplace drug testing policies.
Q: Can kratom show up on standard drug tests?
A: Standard drug tests typically do not screen for kratom alkaloids. However, specialized drug tests can detect mitragynine and other kratom compounds. The detection window varies but may include kratom in urine tests for up to 7 days after use, depending on dosage, frequency, and individual metabolism. Public figures and professionals should verify their specific workplace policies regarding kratom use.
Q: What is the difference between kratom powder and liquid extract?
A: Kratom powder is made from dried and ground kratom leaves, representing the most traditional form of consumption. Liquid extract is a concentrated form created by extracting alkaloids from the powder using solvents, then evaporating the solvent to create a more potent product. Extracts like our premium liquid kratom extract offer faster absorption and more precise dosing, but are typically more potent per serving than traditional powder.
Q: How long does it take for kratom to work?
A: Kratom effects typically begin within 10-30 minutes when taken on an empty stomach, with peak effects occurring around 1-2 hours after consumption. The duration of effects varies by strain and dosage but generally lasts 2-6 hours. Liquid extracts may have a faster onset (5-15 minutes) due to quicker absorption, while capsules may take longer to onset (30-60 minutes) due to digestion time.
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The information and articles on these pages are solely the opinions of third-party authors and not that of EZ Kratom or its owners or employees. EZ Kratom and its owners and employees in no way, shape, or form claim to be medical, scientific, or legal professionals and cannot be held responsible for and will not be liable for any inaccuracy or application of any information provided in these articles.
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