It’s always a joy to have great friends to hang out with regularly. Sometimes, though, those social gatherings can get a bit overwhelming. Take “B,” a 43-year-old from Atlanta, for instance. B loved enjoying Champagne with friends on a Sunday patio, but those occasional indulgences started to become a bit too frequent, especially during the pandemic.
“I felt like I should have invested in box wine,” B said. Now, B has ditched alcohol and turned to marijuana gummies for a relaxing buzz instead.
The Rise of Weed Over Alcohol
The trend of swapping alcohol for cannabis is gaining momentum in the United States. A recent study revealed that, for the first time, daily cannabis use among Americans has surpassed daily alcohol consumption. While more people still drink alcohol occasionally, cannabis is making significant inroads, especially as it becomes legal for recreational use in 24 states and Washington, DC, and for medical use in 38 states and DC.
According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 18 million people aged 12 and older reported daily or near-daily marijuana use in 2022, compared to about 15 million who used alcohol with the same frequency.
The Personal Journey: B’s Story
For B, giving up alcohol was necessary. Binge drinking was causing hangovers and increased anxiety, which affected work performance and the ability to enjoy exercise. “I just was not feeling good anymore,” B said. “Then one day, I was laying on my couch, and my heart was racing like it was coming out of my chest.”
With a family history of alcoholism and heart disease, B decided to quit alcohol entirely. Supported by friends, B found it easier than expected. After a few months of sobriety, B started experimenting with cannabis gummies, finding them easy to incorporate into social settings without the negative side effects of alcohol.
Is Weed a Healthier Alternative?
The debate on whether cannabis is a healthier alternative to alcohol is ongoing. Experts like Carol Boyd, founding director of the Center for the Study of Drugs, Alcohol, Smoking, and Health at the University of Michigan, highlight the risks of moderate alcohol consumption, such as increased blood pressure, heart issues, and even brain shrinkage. On the other hand, binge drinking rose significantly during the pandemic, particularly among women, leading to more emergency room visits and a spike in alcohol-induced deaths.
While marijuana also has potential risks, especially for young people, the method of consumption plays a significant role. Smoking or vaping cannabis can cause serious health issues, but other methods like edibles, oils, and tinctures offer safer alternatives. Dr. Peter Grinspoon, a primary care physician and cannabis specialist, suggests that while smoking cannabis is harmful, using it in other forms can be much safer.
The Wild West of Hemp Products
B, living in Georgia where only medical marijuana is allowed, turned to hemp-based gummies with delta-9 THC. However, the unregulated nature of these products can be dangerous. Experts like Dr. Grinspoon emphasize the importance of buying cannabis products from regulated dispensaries to ensure safety and purity.
As more people consider replacing alcohol with cannabis, it’s crucial to stay informed and cautious. If you’re thinking about making the switch, opt for products from legal, regulated dispensaries and start with a low dose. Always prioritize safety and education in your cannabis journey.