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Emerging research published in the American Journal of Psychiatry suggests that embracing a sober lifestyle involving cannabis method could significantly assist people reduce their drink use.

The Study and Controlled Environment Scenario

Researchers from Brown University conducted a novel experiment where participants were provided with marijuana joints to smoke before entering a carefully constructed “bar lab”.

• Participants could choose to drink up to 8 small drinks.
• The experiment was repeated three separate times with different THC potencies: 7.2%, moderate potency, and a placebo cannabis.

Significant effort was taken to replicate a authentic bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to guarantee participant 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 revealed a marked reduction in drink intake after subjects used marijuana:

• Drink intake fell by nineteen percent after using 3.1% THC marijuana.
• The drop was more pronounced with high-THC marijuana, leading to a 27% decrease versus the placebo.

Broader Context and Future Research

Increased legalization has spurred a major surge in cannabis consumption, which has doubled over the past decade.

At the same time, drink use is at a record low, with many turning to alternatives like weed.

It is important to note that 40% of trial participants were diagnosed with alcohol use disorder.

While cannabis might be a potential alternative to excessive alcohol use, scientists warn that more study is needed.

“We’re not ready to tell individuals seeking treatment for alcohol, ‘Proceed and replace marijuana, and it will work out for you,’” a study author commented.