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Emerging scientific investigation published in the prestigious psychiatry journal suggests that adopting a “California sober” method could substantially assist people lower their alcohol consumption.

Research Methodology and Bar Lab Setting

A team of Brown University conducted a novel study where participants received marijuana joints to consume before visiting a carefully constructed “bar lab”.

• Participants had the option to consume up to 8 mini alcoholic beverages.
• The trial was conducted on three occasions with varying tetrahydrocannabinol potencies: high potency, moderate potency, and a 0.03% marijuana.

Great care was taken to replicate a authentic bar atmosphere, complete with dim lighting and drinks on tap to ensure subject authenticity.

“Our goal was to make sure that when presented with the chance, you would be highly motivated to drink,” explained the principal investigator.

Key Findings and Impact on Drinking

Outcomes revealed a notable decrease in alcohol intake after participants used marijuana:

• Drink consumption fell by 19% after using 3.1% THC cannabis.
• The drop was even more significant with 7.2% THC marijuana, leading to a twenty-seven percent decrease compared to the control.

Wider Trends and Additional Studies

Increased legalization has spurred a significant rise in marijuana consumption, which has doubled over the past decade.

At the same time, alcohol consumption is at a historic low, with many turning to substitutes like weed.

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

Although cannabis might be a possible alternative to heavy drinking, researchers caution that more study is required.

“It is premature to tell individuals seeking treatment for drinking problems, ‘Proceed and replace cannabis, and it will work out for you,’” the lead researcher commented.