đ Share this article California Sober: Research Suggests Cannabis May Help Reducing Drinking Intake New scientific investigation released in the prestigious psychiatry journal proposes that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method could substantially help individuals lower their alcohol consumption. The Study and Controlled Environment Setting A team of Brown University carried out a unique study where participants were provided with marijuana joints to smoke before entering a carefully constructed simulated bar environment. Participants had the option to consume up to 8 small drinks. The trial was conducted three separate times with varying THC potencies: high potency, 3.1%, and a 0.03% cannabis. Great care was taken to mimic a real-life bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to ensure subject authenticity. âWe wanted to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be really driven to consume alcohol,â stated the principal investigator. Significant Results and Effects on Alcohol Use Results revealed a marked decrease in alcohol consumption after subjects smoked marijuana: Drink intake dropped by 19% after consuming moderate-THC marijuana. The drop was more pronounced with high-THC marijuana, leading to a 27% reduction compared to the control. Wider Trends and Additional Studies Expanded legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana usage, which has doubled over the past decade. Meanwhile, alcohol use is at a record low, with many turning to alternatives like marijuana. It is important to note that 40% of trial participants were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder. While marijuana might be a potential alternative to excessive alcohol use, scientists caution that further research is required. âWeâre not ready to advise individuals seeking treatment for drinking problems, âGo ahead and replace cannabis, and it will work out for you,ââ a study author commented.