Going California Sober: Study Suggests Cannabis Could Help Cutting Down Drinking Consumption
Emerging scientific investigation released in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that adopting a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach could substantially help individuals lower their drink consumption.
Research Methodology and Bar Lab Scenario
Researchers from Brown University carried out a unique experiment where volunteers received cannabis cigarettes to consume before visiting a carefully constructed simulated bar environment.
- Participants had the option to consume up to 8 small drinks.
- The experiment was repeated on three occasions with different THC levels: 7.2%, 3.1%, and a placebo marijuana.
Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar environment, complete with low light and drinks on tap to guarantee subject realism.
“Our goal was to make sure that when given the opportunity, you would be highly motivated to consume alcohol,” explained the principal investigator.
Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use
Outcomes showed a notable decrease in alcohol consumption after subjects smoked cannabis:
- Alcohol intake dropped by 19% after consuming moderate-THC marijuana.
- The drop was even more significant with high-THC marijuana, leading to a 27% reduction compared to the control.
Wider Trends and Future Research
Increased legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana consumption, which has doubled over the past decade.
Meanwhile, alcohol consumption is at a historic low, with many opting for substitutes like marijuana.
Crucial to note that 40% of study subjects were diagnosed with alcohol dependence.
Although cannabis might be a possible solution to heavy alcohol use, scientists warn that further study is required.
“We’re not ready to tell individuals in treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author commented.
