🔗 Share this article California Sober: Study Indicates Cannabis May Help Cutting Down Drinking Intake New research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis approach might substantially help individuals lower their alcohol use. The Study and Controlled Environment Scenario Researchers from Brown University conducted a novel experiment where participants were provided with marijuana joints to consume before visiting a carefully constructed simulated bar environment. Subjects had the option to drink up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages. The trial was repeated on three occasions with varying THC levels: high potency, moderate potency, and a 0.03% marijuana. Significant effort was taken to mimic a authentic bar environment, complete with dim lighting and beer taps to ensure participant realism. “Our goal was to ensure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to drink,” stated the principal investigator. Significant Results and Effects on Drinking Outcomes revealed a notable reduction in drink consumption after subjects smoked marijuana: Drink intake fell by nineteen percent after consuming moderate-THC marijuana. Reduction was more pronounced with high-THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease versus the control. Broader Context and Additional Studies Increased legal access has spurred a major surge in marijuana usage, which has increased twofold over the last ten years. Meanwhile, alcohol consumption is at a record low, with many opting for substitutes like weed. It is important to note that forty percent of trial subjects met the criteria for alcohol use disorder. Although cannabis could serve as a possible alternative to excessive drinking, researchers caution that more study is needed. “We’re not ready to tell people seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Go ahead and substitute marijuana, and it will be effective for you,’” a study author noted.