California Sober: Research Indicates Cannabis May Help Reducing Alcohol Consumption
New research released in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method could substantially assist people reduce their drink use.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting
Researchers from Brown University carried out a novel study where participants received cannabis cigarettes to consume before visiting a carefully constructed “bar lab”.
- Participants could choose to consume up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
- The trial was conducted three separate times with varying THC levels: high potency, 3.1%, and a 0.03% cannabis.
Great care was taken to mimic a real-life bar environment, complete with low light and beer taps to ensure subject authenticity.
“We wanted to make sure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to drink,” stated the principal investigator.
Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use
Results revealed a marked reduction in alcohol consumption after participants used cannabis:
- Drink consumption fell by nineteen percent after consuming 3.1% THC marijuana.
- Reduction was more significant with high-THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease versus the control.
Broader Context and Additional Studies
Expanded legal access has spurred a significant rise in cannabis usage, which has increased twofold over the last ten years.
Meanwhile, drink consumption is at a historic low, with numerous individuals opting for alternatives like marijuana.
It is important to note that forty percent of study subjects were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
Although cannabis could serve as a potential alternative to heavy alcohol use, researchers warn that further research is needed.
“It is premature to tell people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and replace cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” a study author commented.
