{"componentChunkName":"component---common-build-tags-template-js","path":"/tag/alcohol/","result":{"data":{"allArticle":{"edges":[{"node":{"id":"Article_3918-markdown","title":"What is 'California Sober'?  ","slug":"what-is-california-sober","content":"Welcome to the new era of ['California Sober'](https://www.vice.com/en/article/a3xvga/california-sober-quitting-drugs-alcohol-weed), and it's not entirely sober, but it's gaining in popularity with the younger generation. I'll give you a hint - Gen Z and Millennials are trading alcoholic cocktails and cocaine for mocktails, canna-beverages, and consciousness-expanding psychedelics.\n\nSome people claim that this is the new 'healthy' lifestyle that includes mood-altering substances but without the dire health consequences of alcohol. \n\nSo what exactly is **California sober**, and where did this all begin? \n\nLet's break it down and discuss why this movement isn't just a trend but the future of cannabis consumption and modern 'sobriety' in America.  \n\n![California sober is popular with Gen Z and Millenials](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_18_at_4_02_23_PM_ed8a66fc67.png)\n\n### What is 'California Sober'?\n\nThe term California sober is much more ambiguous than any official medical term related to sobriety. Generally, being Cali sober means, you are giving up all drugs and alcohol and instead only using cannabis, and possibly psychedelics, in moderation. A California sober person will avoid harder drugs, [like opioids](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/the-science-behind-why-marijuana-is-safer-than-opioids) and [alcohol](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/can-cannabis-be-a-healthier-substitute-for-alcohol). \n\nSome Cali sober people may choose to use additional mind-altering substances such as LSD, while others will only consume marijuana. But the fact is, being California sober means something different to everyone involved. \n\nWhile celebrities and everyday folk are moving toward a California sober way of life, there are some important distinctions to keep in mind before following suit. \n\n- California sober is not a recommended alternative for those with drug and alcohol addictions. \n- Some people may exclusively use cannabis, while others may include psychedelics. \n- Being California Sober doesn't necessarily mean you're quitting drinking forever. It can just mean a cutback in regular consumption. \n\nRegardless of your end goal, making a move to California sober has proved to have a positive impact on the lives of many. The term has now been identified as an aspirational lifestyle and is increasingly popular.\n\n![CANN is a cannabis beverage](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_18_at_4_01_06_PM_ec4bb05155.png)\n\n### Why Cannabis Use is Growing\n\nCannabis is losing its stigma and is quickly becoming mainstream. As new products and research are available, new consumers are flocking to marijuana and throwing away the stoner stereotype.\n\nThe reality is that cannabis can help with [many health conditions](https://hellomd.com/articles/can-marijuana-help-with-chronic-pain-anxiety-and-insomnia), but it's proving especially useful for those seeking an elevated mindset without the hangover, liver damage, or possibility of overdose. Cannabis beverages by companies like [CANN](https://www.drinkcann.com/) are giving consumers new low-dose alternatives for drinking **THC** and **CBD**, and people are loving it.\n\nNowadays, you can curate strains and products to fit your unique, specified needs. You can [look at the massive increase in cannabis beverage sales](https://www.globenewswire.com/news-release/2022/01/14/2367143/0/en/Global-Cannabis-Beverages-Market-to-Reach-US-2-Billion-by-the-Year-2026.html) over the past years and see demand is rapidly growing for alcohol alternatives. \n\nWith new studies related to **endocannabinoids**, trichomes, [terpenes](https://hellomd.com/articles/what-are-cannabis-terpenes-and-how-do-they-work), and more — we're unlocking a new world of diversity for modern cannabis consumers. \n\nSo not only is it easier to access cannabis, it's easier (and more exciting) to intertwine it into your daily life. You can seamlessly ditch the alcohol and switch to cannabis without anyone noticing — or caring!\n\n![Hello1-min (32).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello1_min_32_02de075651.png)\n\n### COVID Increased Alcohol Consumption\n\nThe pandemic rocked our daily lives, causing us to stay locked indoors for extended periods of time. It also boosted alcohol consumption to an unhealthy level. \n\nA study published in [Hepatology](https://aasldpubs.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/hep.32272) found that binge drinking among Americans increased by 21% during the COVID-19 pandemic. \n\nAdditionally, this sustained level of drinking can result in a 19 to 35 percent increase in mortality if continued.  \n\nAs the pandemic wanes, we're now seeing people return to their normal lives. But many are now looking for ways to slow down or cut out their pandemic-level alcohol intake without going stone-cold sober. \n\nThose looking for an alternative to a glass of wine (or three) can rejoice at the opportunity modern marijuana offers. Cannabis can ease the transition of alcohol for those who have grown used to drinking excessively. \n\n![Weed is replacing alcohol](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2022_03_18_at_4_06_36_PM_2145d5c51f.png)\n\n### What's Next for the California Sober Trend? \n\nThe timing of the California Sober craze appears to be perfect, but where is it headed? We've already touched on the popularity of cannabis beverages, but [according to NielsenIQ](https://nielseniq.com/global/en/insights/analysis/2018/rise-of-no-and-low-alcohol/), sales of non-alcoholic drinks rose 33.2% in 2021 as well. \n\nPeople understand that alcohol is at the core of socialization in our modern world, but the abundance of technology and a marketplace filled with new alcohol alternatives is helping us reshape what 'sobriety' really means. \n\nWhether we call it California sober or a \"healthier social life,\" this trend is one we can all get behind. It's a momentous shift toward cleaner living and longevity.\n\nAnd the best part is that cannabis is at the center of it all. \n\n### Get Your Medical Document & Purchase Medical Cannabis\n\nIt's easy to get your medical document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://hellomd.com/get-started). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and start purchasing medical cannabis today.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/png;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/41d2269d4f146babd11cf59aea371fdc/ee604/e9f19a7bfd5f713af3c80084307bdf0a.png","srcSet":"/static/41d2269d4f146babd11cf59aea371fdc/69585/e9f19a7bfd5f713af3c80084307bdf0a.png 200w,\n/static/41d2269d4f146babd11cf59aea371fdc/497c6/e9f19a7bfd5f713af3c80084307bdf0a.png 400w,\n/static/41d2269d4f146babd11cf59aea371fdc/ee604/e9f19a7bfd5f713af3c80084307bdf0a.png 800w,\n/static/41d2269d4f146babd11cf59aea371fdc/f3583/e9f19a7bfd5f713af3c80084307bdf0a.png 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/41d2269d4f146babd11cf59aea371fdc/58556/e9f19a7bfd5f713af3c80084307bdf0a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/41d2269d4f146babd11cf59aea371fdc/61e93/e9f19a7bfd5f713af3c80084307bdf0a.webp 200w,\n/static/41d2269d4f146babd11cf59aea371fdc/1f5c5/e9f19a7bfd5f713af3c80084307bdf0a.webp 400w,\n/static/41d2269d4f146babd11cf59aea371fdc/58556/e9f19a7bfd5f713af3c80084307bdf0a.webp 800w,\n/static/41d2269d4f146babd11cf59aea371fdc/99238/e9f19a7bfd5f713af3c80084307bdf0a.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3808-markdown","title":"6 Reasons You Should Choose Marijuana Over Alcohol","slug":"6-reasons-you-should-choose-marijuana-over-alcohol","content":"\n\nFrom drinks with friends on a special night out to a lonely binge to heal a broken heart, alcohol is a part of daily life for many people worldwide. In the US, more than 65 percent of people [surveyed in 2019](https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/alcohol-facts-and-statistics) said they drank alcohol in the past year – and nearly 60 percent of them had had at least one drink in the previous week.  \n\nIn 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic gripped most of the world, Americans [drank considerably more than usual](https://www.bu.edu/articles/2021/alcohol-consumption-has-spiked-during-the-pandemic-could-the-consequences-outlast-coronavirus/) , too.  Factors like stress and isolation accounted for a 14 percent jump in American alcohol consumption during that year alone.\n\nAlcohol has [a long list of effects on the body and brain](https://www.healthline.com/health/alcohol/effects-on-body). And while it may make you feel good for a while, none of these effects are good for your health. Now, though, research reveals that cannabis [can be a safer alternative](https://drugabuse.com/blog/marijuana-vs-alcohol) that meets many of the reasons people choose to drink. Here's why – and how – to make the switch.\n\n### How Does Alcohol Affect the Body – and Mind?\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-20 at 8.04.05 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_20_at_8_04_05_PM_4299d629b0.png)\nAlcohol affects the body and mind in numerous ways.\n\n\"Alcohol' is an umbrella term for all kinds of beverages that contain ethanol or ethyl alcohol. This chemical forms when yeast ferments, or breaks down, natural sugars found in foods like grapes (for making wine) or malted barley, used to make beer.\n\nBut ethanol is also a toxin – [a volatile chemical](https://www.ehs.com/2014/04/ethanol-versatile-common-and-potentially-dangerous/) found in varnishes, nail polish remover, gasoline, and solvents. It's responsible for the many effects of drinking alcohol, ranging from pleasant relaxation to nausea, blackouts, as well as liver damage.\n\n### Alcohol Disrupts Messaging in the Brain\nThe most visible effects of alcohol come from its [effects on the brain]\n(https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohols-effects-health/alcohols-effects-body#:~:text=Alcohol%20interferes%20with%20the%20brain's,clearly%20and%20move%20with%20coordination). Ethanol disrupts messaging between neurotransmitters – the \"chemicals\" that regulate mood, cognition, and other functions such as motor skills.\n\nEthanol boosts the effects of inhibitory, or calming, substances such as GABA (gamma-Aminobutyric acid) and serotonin.  At the same time, it inhibits excitatory or stimulating neurotransmitters such as glutamine and adenosine. These processes account for the short-term effects of relaxation and elevated mood.\n\nBut with long-term, sustained alcohol use, the brain adjusts to the presence of ethanol. That's why people who drink frequently need to drink more and more to get the same effects.  \n\nDisruptions in the brain's communication pathways account for the familiar signs of intoxication, such as slurred speech, poor coordination, and impaired judgment.  When blood alcohol levels get too high, too fast, \"blackouts\" can happen as the brain's ability to form and store new memories is impaired.\n\n### Alcohol Affects Multiple Organs\nAlong with its effects on the brain, ethanol also affects many of the body's other systems and functions. The sugars in alcohol can affect the body's ability to produce and regulate insulin, contributing to developing diabetes. Ethanol can also affect the cardiovascular system, raising the risk of stroke, hypertension, and heart problems.\n\nOver time, alcohol can destroy liver function, leading to conditions such as alcoholic hepatitis and cirrhosis. It can inflame the pancreas, causing chronic pancreatitis. Ethanol can also affect the texture and appearance of the skin, causing it to age prematurely.\n\n### What About Marijuana?\nAlcohol's effects on the body aren't all bad. Numerous studies indicate that a moderate intake of red wine might support heart health, thanks to the polyphenols in grapes. But now, research reveals that cannabis can have the same relaxing and uplifting effects as alcohol without the potential risks and side effects. What's more, cannabis has documented health benefits as well.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-20 at 8.05.38 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_20_at_8_05_38_PM_399b8b1839.png)\nFor many, marijuana is replacing alcohol consumption.\n\nHere are six benefits of consuming cannabis instead of alcohol.\n\n### 1. Cannabis works with your body, not against it\n\nConsuming cannabis in any form activates receptors in the body's endocannabinoid system, a comprehensive network of cell receptors that responds both to natural cannabinoids produced by the body and to compounds in the cannabis plant.\nThe endocannabinoid system plays a role in moderating pain, regulating mood, and supporting balance among the body's many subsystems. But the body has no natural ethanol receptors, so when someone consumes alcohol, the tissues and cells respond to it as a toxic substance.\n\n### 2. Cannabis reduces stress and anxiety\n\nCannabis has a long history of [promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety](https://hellomd.com/articles/why-does-weed-get-you-high-and-make-you-feel-good). Cannabis promotes the release of the brain's \"feel good\" chemicals, such as dopamine and GABA, which support calmness and a positive mood.  \n\n### 3. Cannabis has few side effects  \n\nAlthough it can take some experimenting to discover the right products and dosage, cannabis generally has minimal side effects for most people. There are exceptions, though. Consuming too much THC can cause symptoms including a racing heart, paranoia, and confusion. Heavy cannabis use in those under 18 can contribute to memory and learning problems. Some people can suffer from a condition called cannabis hyperemesis syndrome causes nausea and vomiting.\n\n### 4. Cannabis overuse isn't fatal \n\nToo much alcohol can be fatal, either by overloading the body with toxins or contributing to other risky actions such as drunk driving or combining alcohol and drugs. But according to the [National Institute on Drug Abuse](https://www.popsci.com/overdose-on-weed-marijuana/), there has been no report of an adult death solely caused by too much cannabis consumption.\n\n### 5. Cannabis can help you sleep  \n\nMany people claim that a glass of wine or a few beers can help them get to sleep, but the sugars in alcoholic drinks can disrupt the body's insulin regulation and interfere with the deeper stages of sleep.  But cannabis, especially products that are high in CBD, [can promote relaxation and restful sleep](https://hellomd.com/articles/5-sleep-disorders-cannabis-can-help-alleviate) because they work with the body's natural regulatory systems.\n\nPeople are always looking for ways to feel better, and medical experts agree that a few drinks here and there aren't likely to be harmful. But weed in all its many forms can replace your booze of choice, with considerable benefits for the body and mind. \n\n### 6. Cannabis won't make you gain weight\n\nAlcohol is full of empty calories and loads of sugar. It's pretty easy to consume 2000 calories in one night of binge drinking. It's a long-standing joke that people who consume marijuana get the ['munchies'](https://hellomd.com/articles/what-are-munchies-and-why-do-you-get-them-when-you-smoke-weed) and overeat in front of the fridge late at night. But, the reality is, people who consume cannabis regularly tend to [have slimmer waistlines](https://www.businessinsider.com/pot-smokers-are-skinnier-and-healthier-2013-5#:~:text=Reuters%20A%20new%20study%20suggests,smoked%20in%20the%20last%20month.).\n \n### Get Your Medical Cannabis Card Online\n\nIf you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/14b42/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.jpg","srcSet":"/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/f836f/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.jpg 200w,\n/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/2244e/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.jpg 400w,\n/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/14b42/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.jpg 800w,\n/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/47498/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.jpg 1200w,\n/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/0e329/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.jpg 1600w,\n/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/947df/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.jpg 5472w","srcWebp":"/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/58556/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/61e93/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.webp 200w,\n/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/1f5c5/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.webp 400w,\n/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/58556/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.webp 800w,\n/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/99238/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.webp 1200w,\n/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/7c22d/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.webp 1600w,\n/static/c0138384dc9bc466228f64ac3e191d01/f8fd9/c82e66b22d623213e0b4c329e452854a.webp 5472w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3754-markdown","title":"Can Weed-Infused Drinks Replace Your Alcohol?","slug":"can-weed-infused-drinks-replace-your-alcohol","content":"\"Let's have a drink!\" is something we hear all the time. We go for drinks with friends, have a drink to celebrate, have drinks after work, and of course, we serve drinks at a party. In society, we drink for a lot of different reasons, and for the most part, it is culturally acceptable to consume alcohol with friends and family.\n\nBut is alcohol good for us? If we look at the science and the data, regular consumption of alcohol has a lot of unintended [negative health consequences](https://www.cdc.gov/alcohol/fact-sheets/alcohol-use.htm), from alcohol dependence to a higher risk of different cancers, higher rates of depression, and even a weakened immune system.\n\nIf you consume alcohol regularly, maybe it's time to consider pivoting to something else. That could mean abstaining altogether (chocolate is a great substitute!) or approaching alcohol more consciously and in moderation. Or, it could be time to consider an alternative, such as [cannabis-infused beverages](https://www.hellomd.com/articles/top-5-best-weed-infused-drinks). If consumed properly, marijuana can provide similar benefits we experience from alcohol but with fewer health problems. Also, who doesn't want to avoid the next day's alcohol hangover?!\n\n![Hello2-min (32).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello2_min_32_4a3bead3e3.png)\n\n### How Much is Too Much Alcohol\n\nIf you are a moderate drinker, you may be able to drink alcohol without noticing any negative effects. Experts debate if there are health benefits to drinking; some possible ones include:\n\n- Reducing the risk of developing heart disease\n- Possibly reduces the risk of ischemic stroke \n- Possibly reduces the risk of diabetes\n\nThe [Mayo Clinic](https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/nutrition-and-healthy-eating/in-depth/alcohol/art-20044551) indicates that health benefits are more likely received if you have a healthy diet and are physically active. \n\nModerate drinking is considered to be one to two drinks a day for *men* and one per day or less for *women*. Examples of one drink include:\n\n- Beer: 12 fluid ounces (355 milliliters)\n- Wine: 5 fluid ounces (148 milliliters)\n- Distilled spirits (80 proof): 1.5 fluid ounces (44 milliliters)\n\nBut even a moderate drinker has an increased risk of some cancers, including breast and esophageal cancer. \n\nHeavy or high-risk drinking is defined as more than three drinks on any day or more than seven drinks a week for women and for men older than age 65, and more than four drinks on any day or more than 14 drinks a week for men aged 65 and younger.\n\nSome of the health risks of excessive drinking and binge drinking include:\n\n- Certain cancers\n- Pancreatitis\n- Sudden death if you already have cardiovascular disease\n- Heart muscle damage leading to heart failure\n- Stroke\n- High blood pressure\n- Liver disease\n- Suicide\n- Accidental serious injury or death\n- Brain damage and other problems in an unborn child\n- Alcohol withdrawal syndrome\n- Depression and anxiety\n- Sleep disturbances such as insomnia\n- Addiction or alcohol dependence\n\n![Hello4-min (25).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello4_min_25_3e78cc9de3.png)\n\n### Do You Have an Alcohol Problem?\n\nIf you're asking if you have a drinking problem, chances are you do. Some of the [warning signs of alcohol abuse](https://www.webmd.com/mental-health/addiction/understanding-alcohol-abuse-symptoms) include:\n\n- Drinking more than you plan to\n- Couldn't cut back or stop despite trying\n- Spend a lot of time drinking, being sick, or hungover\n- Want alcohol so badly you can't think of anything else\n- Have problems with work, school, or family because of your drinking habit \n- Continuing to drink even though it is causing problems for you or your relationships \n- Cut back on other activities important to you in order to drink\n- Keep drinking even though it made you depressed or anxious, hurt your health, or led to a memory blackout\n- Drink more and more to get the same effect \n- Experiencing withdrawal symptoms when the buzz wears off, such as trouble sleeping, shakiness, restlessness, nausea, sweating, a racing heart, a seizure, or seeing, hearing, or feeling things that aren't there.\n\nThe [National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAA)](https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/) offers a number of [resources for getting assessments and help with your drinking problem](https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/publications/brochures-and-fact-sheets/treatment-alcohol-problems-finding-and-getting-help). These can include traditional self-help groups such as [Alcoholics Anonymous (AA)](https://www.aa.org/) or Secular AA; different types of treatments and medications; different kinds of health professionals available to work with you; and much more.\n\n![Hello5-min (20).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello5_min_20_f32320fe18.png)\n\n### Replacing a Drinking Habit with Another...\n\nIf your drinking problem isn't severe, then replacing your nightly cocktail with another habit, one with less physical damage, maybe an easy switch up. If your drinking habit is deeply ingrained, or you find difficulty breaking your habit, we suggest a really good read!\n\nTo find a pathway to real change, it's worth consulting a book by Charles Duhigg, [The Power of Habit: Why We Do What We Do in Life and Business](https://www.amazon.com/Power-Habit-What-Life-Business/dp/1400069289/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1633013539&sr=8-1). \n\nThe key to exercising regularly, losing weight, raising great children, becoming more productive, building revolutionary companies and social movements, and achieving success, and stopping or moderating drinking is to understand how habits work. This book clearly demonstrates how change is possible, even with ingrained habits - such as drinking too much.\n\n![Hello6-min (14).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello6_min_14_b1261ca3dd.png)\n\n### Replacing Alcohol With Marijuana\n\nThere's evidence to suggest that it's [safer to consume weed](https://hellomd.com/articles/marijuana-is-safer-than-alcohol-and-tobacco-study-finds) than alcohol or tobacco. Studies have shown that alcohol can be about 114 times more deadly than marijuana. That's a bit of a whopper!\n\nTimes are changing as people become more aware of the dangers of alcohol and the benefits of marijuana. As the rise of weed legalization continues across the United States (especially under the pressure of the COVID-19 pandemic), we see an increasing number of young people who embracing marijuana in lieu of drinking.\n\nThe [\"Monitoring the Future\" report](https://www.addictioncenter.com/news/2021/09/college-students-marijuana-more-alcohol-less/), sponsored by The [National Institute On Drug Abuse at the National Institutes of Health](https://nida.nih.gov/), reveals changes in the patterns of substance use in the college student population. \n\nStatistics show that 44% of college students indicated they had used marijuana in the previous year, while 56% reported drinking. This represents a substantial shift. In 2015, only 38% of college students said they used marijuana, while 62% of the same population admitted to drinking alcohol in 2019.\n\n[Another study, by Harris Poll,](https://www.forbes.com/sites/ajherrington/2021/12/31/marijuana-is-replacing-alcohol-for-nearly-half-of-cannabis-consumers-during-the-pandemic/?sh=55807ac61fb6) indicates that half of cannabis consumers aged 21 and up have replaced or reduced their alcohol consumption with marijuana since the beginning of the pandemic. The poll also found that one-third of those who use cannabis recreationally prefer cannabis to drinking alcohol.\n\n![Hello8-min (6).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello8_min_6_d189a78935.png)\n\n### The Cannabis-Infused Beverage: An Alcohol Alternative\n\nShifting consumer attitudes and patterns have alcohol companies on their toes and somewhat concerned. While cannabis is growing in popularity as a new consumption method makes the switch from alcohol to marijuana even easier; to enter the weed-infused beverage.\n\nCannabis sales in this country. are expected to [reach $21.6 billion in 2021](https://daily.sevenfifty.com/why-the-alcohol-industry-is-betting-big-on-cannabis/), with cannabis beverage sales making up about $210 million of that. More than 80% of consumers believe that weed is safer than alcohol, sparking major alcohol companies to invest in **THC and CBD beverages**, such as [Molson Coors](https://www.molsoncoors.com/av?url=https://www.molsoncoors.com/), [Lagunitas](https://lagunitas.com/), [Pabst](https://www.pabstlabs.com/), and [Constellation Brands](https://www.cbrands.com/).\n\nThe weed-infused beverage market has two main categories: **THC beverages** and **hemp-derived CBD beverages**. Each category has its own legal requirements and route to market. But they have the same appeal: **They're non-alcoholic**, have a touch of mocktail effervescence, and include low to zero calories. It seems this may be the new healthy alternative to boozing it up on the weekends!\n\nIn this vein, here are seven cannabis-infused drinks available throughout the California market that are worth trying:\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-01 at 1.11.28 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_01_at_1_11_28_PM_857d1176cd.png)\n\n### ReCreate Mango Hibiscus\nContaining 10 mg of THC and 10 mg of CBD, [the extra-strength version of this cannabis beverage](https://www.recreatecannabis.com/product/mango-hibiscus-beverage-extra-strength) has only 30 calories and combines full-spectrum extract with uplifting botanicals like Yerba Mate to help keep you energized and uplifted throughout the day. \n\n![Hello6-min (15).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello6_min_15_05e3b2be98.png)\n\n### Saka Pink\n[House of Saka Pink](https://www.houseofsaka.com/portfolio-item/saka-pink/) is a cannabis-infused beverage handcrafted from grapes grown in select vineyards within California's Napa Valley. It offers subtle aromas of red fruit, honeysuckle, and spring flora. \"Pleasing flavors of fresh strawberry and elderflower bath the palate followed by a bright, citrus finish.\"\n\n![Hello5-min (21).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello5_min_21_2aa7dfff2d.png)\n\n### Malus Ciders\nCreated by [Harmony Craft Beverages](https://harmonycraftbeverages.com)​​, Malus beverages are reportedly California's first cannabis-infused ciders, made with Sour Diesel terpenes and live resin THC. Most of the alcohol is removed from the cider and then a cannabis emulsion is infused, tasting almost like you're drinking a hard cider but \"swapping bloat for bliss.\"\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-01 at 1.14.58 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_01_at_1_14_58_PM_21d42c9e8d.png)\n\n### Lagunitas Hi-Fi Hops\nThe brewery has strong sales in California of its [Hi-Fi Hops](https://hifihops.com/), using a \"stereophonic\" mix of hops and cannabis. It explains, \"This IPA-inspired sparkling beverage is made using everything Lagunitas knows about hops — but non-alcoholic with zero-calories, and zero-carbs. Infused with THC from the finest, sun-grown cannabis.\" The three beer-like products have different levels of THC and CBD.\n\n![Screen Shot 2021-10-01 at 1.15.41 PM.png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Screen_Shot_2021_10_01_at_1_15_41_PM_6d762dad16.png)\n\n### Artet Aperitifs\n[Artet's aperitifs](https://artet.com/) are non-alcoholic and cannabis infused. Each batch is a blend of cannabis and eight botanicals that are designed to work in harmony. One intriguing choice is Rosemary Jane, with Italian grapefruit juice, rosemary simple syrup, and sparkling water to \"tease out the warmth of our flagship aperitif.\"\n\n![Hello9-min (5).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello9_min_5_097312d1c1.png)\n\n### SipC Rose\n[SipC](https://drinksipc.com/) only used California grapes used in the initial production of its 2018 Grenache Rosé blend that was infused with 40mg of broad-spectrum hemp extract. Its alcohol-removed, hemp-infused rose wines are aimed at women and delivered via a subscription service.\n\n![Hello10-min (1).png](https://hellomd-cms.s3.us-west-2.amazonaws.com/Hello10_min_1_c238739478.png)\n\n### Mad Lilly Spritzers\n[Mad Lilly spritzers](https://www.drinkmadlilly.com/products/spritzers) blend all-natural fruit juices and low doses of cannabis to create \"wildly tasteful experiences, be it a soothing night's sleep or a moment of sparkling joy.\" Product choices include Raspberry Hibiscus, Passion Fruit Mango and Ginger Pear. Raspberry Hibiscus, for example, contains 50 calories and 5 mg each of THC and CBD.\n\nThese products are available through different California dispensaries and delivery services. One of the best same-day (or even within the hour with the ASAP menu) delivery services is [Grass Door](https://grassdoor.com/), serving the Los Angeles and San Francisco area.\n\n### Get a Medical Marijuana Card Online\n\nIt's easy to get your medical marijuana document with the online [Telehealth service HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/get-started/). Register, pay, and receive an online medical consultation with a licensed practitioner and purchase medical cannabis today. You don't pay unless you're approved!","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,/9j/2wBDABALDA4MChAODQ4SERATGCgaGBYWGDEjJR0oOjM9PDkzODdASFxOQERXRTc4UG1RV19iZ2hnPk1xeXBkeFxlZ2P/2wBDARESEhgVGC8aGi9jQjhCY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2NjY2P/wgARCAANABQDASIAAhEBAxEB/8QAGAAAAwEBAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAIEAwX/xAAUAQEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAC/9oADAMBAAIQAxAAAAFLOa4epGI//8QAGxAAAgIDAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQIAAwQREiL/2gAIAQEAAQUCq0pPcZm3j+3ssIuXoz//xAAWEQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABADH/2gAIAQMBAT8BQbL/xAAXEQEAAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAREx/9oACAECAQE/Ablr/8QAHBAAAgICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAECESFRIjGB/9oACAEBAAY/Au3qi4PxmYzKehwtj5yR/8QAHBAAAwEAAgMAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAERITFBUYGR/9oACAEBAAE/IYrw9glNWP6GfcsxDdZ5oRaCy04RROSn/9oADAMBAAIAAwAAABCr7//EABcRAQEBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAEAESH/2gAIAQMBAT8QEAkOMv/EABgRAAMBAQAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAABESEx/9oACAECAQE/EEl18K9U/8QAGxABAAICAwAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAQARITFBUWH/2gAIAQEAAT8QBBuigeRPE2SzIl0XfIHEZgaWTPsXtCtgrlhzAiG7RmpspNFif//Z","aspectRatio":1.5037593984962405,"src":"/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/14b42/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.jpg","srcSet":"/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/f836f/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.jpg 200w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/2244e/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.jpg 400w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/14b42/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.jpg 800w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/47498/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.jpg 1200w","srcWebp":"/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/58556/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/61e93/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.webp 200w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/1f5c5/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.webp 400w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/58556/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.webp 800w,\n/static/0314210a14083dcbb4c4aeb1c690fdab/99238/ef1a7b52a5f9d17bc0e33c1230397465.webp 1200w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_3026-markdown","title":"What Happens When You Mix Alcohol With CBD?","slug":"what-happens-when-you-mix-alcohol-with-cbd","content":"Whether you’re enjoying a [cocktail infused with cannabidiol (CBD) at a trendy bar](https://www.foodandwine.com/cocktails-spirits/cbd-cocktails) or nibbling on your favorite CBD-infused edible at home with a glass of wine, CBD and alcohol can seem like a perfect match.  \n\nBut is it really a good idea to mix CBD and alcohol? Although research on the subject is skimpy, a few recent studies reveal some surprising—and contradictory—[effects from combining CBD with alcoholic beverages](https://www.vice.com/en_us/article/j5npp7/what-happens-when-you-mix-alcohol-and-cbd) of all kinds. \n\nWhile some health professionals don’t recommend the combination because it may increase sedation, others point to research that suggests CBD may help protect the liver and brain from alcohol’s negative effects. \n\n### CBD Regulates Systems & Promotes Health\n\nCBD is one of the two most abundant compounds in the _Cannabis sativa_ plant, right alongside tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that’s responsible for the high folks experience when consuming it. \n\nThough both cannabinoids act on the body’s endocannabinoid system (ECS), a network of receptors found on cells throughout the body and brain, CBD—unlike THC—doesn’t make consumers feel high. \n\nThe ECS responds both to cannabinoid-like chemicals that are naturally produced by the body itself, and to cannabinoids from outside sources, mainly from the cannabis plant. \n\nThe ECS plays a major role in keeping many of the body’s subsystems in balance, a state called homeostasis. CBD supports processes that contribute to homeostasis, such as:\n\n* Immune responses\n* Circadian rhythms\n* Signaling among neurons within the brain \n\nFor all of these reasons, CBD can help relieve the symptoms of a variety of health conditions. A large body of research from around the world documents the benefits of CBD for helping with:\n\n* Neurological disorders like Parkinson’s disease and epilepsy\n* Chronic pain\n* Mood disorders such as anxiety and depression\n\nRELATED: [HOW HEMP CBD CAN HELP KIDS WITH SEIZURES](https://www.hellolift.com/health-wellness/5b5b62b1a1805500087db9cd/how-hemp-cbd-oil-can-help-kids-with-seizures)\n\nThe cannabinoid’s calming, relaxing effects come from [CBD’s ability to support major mood-regulating processes](https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/cbd-and-alcohol) in the brain. CBD can boost the brain’s production of the natural cannabinoid anandamide, which reduces anxiety and promotes positive feelings. \n\nCBD can also inhibit processes that interfere with production of a mood-boosting chemical called GABA. And it can damp down the effects of glutamate, a very abundant excitatory chemical that can cause heightened anxiety and agitation.\n\n### Alcohol Is a Feel-Good Toxin\n\nFor many people, alcohol also causes feelings of calm and relaxation. Taken in moderation, it can:\n\n* Loosen inhibitions\n* Ease social anxiety\n* Help people unwind after a long day\n\nBut alcohol can also do significant damage to the body and brain when used in excess or over long periods of time. Because alcohol can release inhibitions, it can also contribute to episodes of anger and rage. \n\nUnlike the cannabis-friendly ECS, the human body doesn’t have an alcohol receptor system. [When the body metabolizes alcohol, it produces toxins](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3959903/), including acetaldehyde and a form of ethanol. \n\nThese toxins can destroy brain cells and damage the liver, causing conditions like cirrhosis and liver steatosis, or fatty liver syndrome. \n\nSo, what happens when [CBD and alcohol meet each other](https://www.wellandgood.com/good-food/mixing-cbd-alcohol/) in the body and brain?\n\n### CBD & Alcohol Can Enhance Each Other’s Effects\n\nFolks who love CBD-infused alcoholic drinks say that while the combination promotes a more noticeable feeling of relaxation and enjoyment, the effects of CBD aren’t particularly outstanding.  \n\nBut some studies suggest that CBD and alcohol together can intensify the effects of both substances. In this way, some people can feel extremely sedated or have somewhat more impairment in cognitive and motor skills.\n\nIn general, though, these studies indicate that taking CBD with alcohol may affect people much like alcohol alone does. But these effects also depend on a number of factors, such as:\n\n* A person’s tolerance for CBD and alcohol\n* How much they ingest at a given time \n\n### CBD Can Protect the Body Against Alcohol’s Harmful Effects\n\nAlthough not much research has been done specifically on CBD-alcohol interactions, the benefits of CBD as a neuroprotectant and anti-inflammatory are well documented. And these qualities can help  protect the body and brain from alcohol’s toxic effects.  \n\nCBD can be a potent protector of the brain’s complex and delicate neural networks. So much so, in fact, that CBD can help the brain heal from major trauma and stroke.  Some research suggests that it could do the same when taken with alcohol to reduce the damage alcohol can do to the brain’s neural pathways.  \n\nCBD is also a powerful anti-inflammatory that can protect cells from oxidation and other damaging processes. In this way, some researchers have found that [CBD can also help protect the liver from damage](https://www.nature.com/articles/s41598-017-10924-8) that heavy alcohol consumption can cause.\n\n### CBD Can Lower Blood Alcohol Levels\n\nResearchers who compared the effects of CBD plus alcohol to the effects of alcohol alone made a surprising discovery: Even though study subjects in both groups showed about the same effects, the blood alcohol levels of those who took CBD with alcohol were significantly lower than those who had ingested alcohol alone.  \n\nAlthough the reason isn’t clear, it appears that CBD is able to lower levels of alcohol in the bloodstream—or to boost the body’s ability to metabolize alcohol.\n\n### Should You Mix CBD & Alcohol?\n\nCBD-infused alcoholic beverages are the latest, hottest trend in CBD consumables. Folks say adding a few drops of a CBD tincture to their favorite drinks simply add an interesting twist. \n\nBut if you haven’t tried these drinks, or you haven’t combined CBD with alcohol in some other way before, it’s wise to proceed with caution and keep your consumption low until it’s clear how the combination affects you.\n\nCBD-infused drinks aside, the way you consume other forms of CBD with alcohol also influences how this combination could affect you. CBD can typically interact with alcohol if the two are taken within four to eight hours of each other. \n\nCBD edibles deliver their effects more slowly, because the digestive system must process them. But CBD oils and tinctures work more quickly. So far, science hasn’t explored whether topically applied CBD products may interact with alcohol. \n\nAlcoholic beverages can vary in their alcohol content, too. For example, spirits like whiskey or vodka typically contain more alcohol than beers and wines do, and this can also affect the way different drinks interact with CBD.  \n\nResearch reveals that mixing CBD with alcohol can bring some unexpected benefits. But it’s still wise to:\n\n* Start slowly\n* Know your limits\n* Consume both CBD and alcohol as responsibly as you can\n\nPhoto credit: Canna Obscura/Shutterstock.com\n\nWant to try CBD, but don’t know where to start? [Shop our selection of high-quality, lab-tested CBD products](https://www.hellolift.com/products) and have them shipped to your door. And if you have questions about CBD, [ask them](https://www.hellolift.com/answers) and our community will answer.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/14b42/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg","srcSet":"/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/f836f/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 200w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/2244e/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 400w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/14b42/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 800w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/47498/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 1200w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/0e329/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 1600w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/ffa36/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.jpg 1773w","srcWebp":"/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/58556/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/61e93/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 200w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/1f5c5/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 400w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/58556/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 800w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/99238/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 1200w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/7c22d/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 1600w,\n/static/a6cb3af7d8e094565820a5300e1c6ded/d1528/963f0b6463f1ed9d7edbe84cf0f437de.webp 1773w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2875-markdown","title":"New Trend: Alcohol-Free, Cannabis-Infused Wine & Beer","slug":"new-trend-alcohol-free-cannabis-infused-wine-and-beer","content":"There’s nothing quite like having a drink with those you love. Whether it’s a fun night out at the bar, a fancy dinner party, a toast to celebrate a momentous occasion or a simple glass of wine with your partner at home, alcoholic drinks play a big role. \n\nAnd it makes sense. Small amounts of alcohol can help ease people into a more relaxed and social mood, which can make things a lot more fun. But as cannabis legalization continues to open up new possibilities for recreational relaxation, a new alternative is entering the scene: alcohol-free, cannabis-infused wine and beer that mimic the flavors of alcohol. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\nOptions like [Rebel Coast Wineries’ new cannabis-infused Sauvignon Blanc](https://definitelynotrebelcoastwinery.com/) and [Lagunitas’ Hi-Fi Hops](https://www.sanluisobispo.com/living/food-drink/article213954384.html) are taking the alcohol out of the equation and replacing it with cannabis. Now you don’t have to get drunk to drink with your friends. \n\n### Weed & Wine Culture \n\nThe cannabis wine craze didn’t start with nonalcoholic wines. People have been mixing cannabis with wine containing alcohol for thousands of years. If fact, [the combination was first used as general anesthesia for surgery back in 400 BC](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/History_of_general_anesthesia). \n\nBut in recent years, the marijuana and wine movement has been more focused on mixing the two for recreational purposes. What started as just individuals enjoying both cannabis and wine at their parties and gatherings has spawned a high-end culture geared around blending these two recreational substances in sophisticated settings: \n\n* [Cannabis supper clubs where guests are treated to wine and cannabis-infused culinary delights](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b0e3174bf4c4d000a0e73ea/cannabis-supper-clubs-elevated-experiences-by-master-chefs). \n* “Weed and wine” tastings that pair wines with inhaled cannabis flower based on their flavor and aroma. \n* [Marijuana and wine tours](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b08ed7dbf4c4d000a0e73c3/take-a-tour-of-california-wine-and-cannabis-country) that take passengers to visit wineries, vineyards, cannabis dispensaries and marijuana grow sites to show the similarity between the two—and often allow sampling of both products.\n \nRELATED: [ARE MARIJUANA-INFUSED ALCOHOLIC DRINKS A GOOD IDEA?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ab87d79f24d1300077ccb9d/are-marijuana-infused-alcoholic-drinks-a-good-idea)\n\nIn California, where the climate is well suited to both cannabis and wine, the cannabis and alcohol culture was thriving. Then Prop 64 passed legalizing recreational cannabis, and the legal options for mixing marijuana and wine or beer disappeared. \n\n### No Mixing Allowed—Why Cannabis-Infused Alcohol Is Now Illegal \n\nUnder the new California laws, no one can mix cannabis and alcohol. Not only are alcohol and cannabis not allowed to be sold in the same product (such as cannabis-infused wine), but they’re not even allowed to be sold at the same event.\n\nThose who have licenses to make or sell alcohol could lose them if they’re found to be selling cannabis as well. This has really put a damper on the cannabis-infused alcohol trend and the many events focused on pairing cannabis and wine. \n\nThe reasoning behind the decision has to do with the way [cannabis and alcohol interact](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58e7bbf32fdeaf51a1a08384/mixing-marijuana-and-alcohol). Perhaps we could have guessed from the fact that this potent combination was used for anesthesia that its effects are powerful. Those under the influence of this mix can find it to be sedative, disorienting and numbing. \n\nSome of this is just from the alcohol itself, which comes with its fair share of [dangerous effects](https://www.niaaa.nih.gov/alcohol-health/alcohols-effects-body). Alcohol can make it harder to move with coordination or think clearly, making driving unsafe. And for those who drink too much alcohol, death from accidental overdose is a real possibility. \n\nCannabis, on the other hand, is relatively safe. You can’t overdose from it like you can with alcohol, and it doesn’t impair coordination in the same way. Still, it can be extremely disorienting, especially for new or occasional consumers. \n\nUnfortunately, when you mix cannabis and alcohol, the effects become far more pronounced. The disorientation is magnified, often much more than expected for the amount of cannabis consumed. This can be highly dangerous if people try to drive after taking the combination. One study found that [driving ability was moderately impaired by cannabis but severely impaired by the combination of cannabis and alcohol](http://clinchem.aaccjnls.org/content/early/2015/05/05/clinchem.2015.238287). \n\nWhen [scientists studied this phenomenon](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/11543984), they found a surprising result. When subjects drank alcohol and smoked cannabis, the levels of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) increased compared to when they consumed the same amount of cannabis without any alcohol. This suggests that alcohol actually increases the absorption of THC and adds to its disorienting and euphoric effects.\n\nOf course, this doesn’t mean that the combination can’t be consumed without issue. Many combine alcohol and THC on a regular basis, without any ill effects. But legislators aren’t ready to take on the risk of drivers on the road coming back from marijuana and alcohol events or bars that serve cannabis and alcohol. So this combination is one that happens at private gatherings only. \n\n### The Solution? Alcohol-Free Cannabis Drinks\n\nBut don’t worry. The “weed and wine” culture isn’t gone yet. And while mixing cannabis and alcohol isn’t allowed, the new trend is moving from mixing to mimicking. \n\nTake the new [Sauvignon Blanc from Rebel Coast](https://definitelynotrebelcoastwinery.com/). This nonalcoholic wine swaps out the alcohol for cannabis. With no alcohol, it doesn’t violate any laws, but it still tastes like wine.\n\nAn alcohol-free wine like this would be the perfect substitute at dinners or tastings that focus on cannabis and wine. It opens up a whole world of possibilities for the event sector, because there’s no legal problem with mixing cannabis wine with other forms of cannabis. \n\nAnd even for private events and gatherings, this could be a game changer. For those who simply prefer the effects of cannabis to alcohol, this offers a way to join in the celebratory culture that surrounds drinks without getting drunk or hungover. \n\nWant to go to a party where everyone is drinking, and smoking isn’t allowed? [Bring some cannabis-infused, nonalcoholic wine or beer](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5bdbd36d26ef630008f055a2/how-cannabis-can-replace-your-glass-of-wine). You can raise your glass in a toast, and still get the kind of buzz you prefer. \n\nAnd it’s not just wine. The [Hi-Hops drink from Lagunitas](https://www.sanluisobispo.com/living/food-drink/article213954384.html) takes a similar route. It’s just sparkling water with cannabis and hops flavors, with the cannabis added in after it leaves the brewery. Other beer makers like [Blue Moon have also announced they’re planning to offer cannabis infused, nonalcoholic beers soon](https://www.sacbee.com/news/state/california/california-weed/article207527129.html). \n\nCould these cannabis-infused beverages be the future of celebratory beverages? Only time will tell if there’s a market for people who’d rather sip cannabis than alcohol. \n\nPhoto credit: [Mattias Diesel](https://unsplash.com/@mattiasdiesel)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/14b42/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg","srcSet":"/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/f836f/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 200w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/2244e/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 400w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/14b42/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 800w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/47498/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 1200w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/0e329/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 1600w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/11837/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.jpg 3621w","srcWebp":"/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/58556/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/61e93/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 200w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/1f5c5/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 400w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/58556/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 800w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/99238/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 1200w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/7c22d/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 1600w,\n/static/34597884d35201365b7141c24050014e/cbac0/e07dcdcda1be163a12cb1680d505543b.webp 3621w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2863-markdown","title":"How Cannabis Can Replace Your Glass of Wine","slug":"how-cannabis-can-replace-your-glass-of-wine","content":"For thousands of years, wine has helped people celebrate good times, ease the pain of bad times, and simply relax after a rough day. Wine can be good for your health, too, with documented benefits for the heart and the immune system. \n\nBut all too often that glass of vino comes with undesirable side effects and too many calories for comfort. Now, however, today’s array of trendy, easy-to-use [cannabis options can give wine lovers a way to get the relaxing, social effects of wine](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2018/04/26/trading-wine-weed-legal-marijuana/550949002/) but without the damage wine and other spirits can do.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Is Wine Really Good for You?\n\nYou don’t have to be a wine connoisseur to know that there’s a virtually endless array of wines to choose from for just about any occasion. The relaxation and good feelings that come from having a glass or two of wine aren’t just for social occasions either. A lot of people also drink wine in the evening to wind down, or before bedtime as a sleep aid—even though research suggests that it probably isn’t actually good for healthy sleep.\n\nThe widely touted health benefits of wine are derived mainly from the presence of:\n\n* Ethanol, which blocks nerve pathways in the brain and depresses the central nervous system    \n* Phenols, plant chemicals with a range of immune-boosting properties \n\nWine can also dilate and relax the cardiovascular system, which reduces the risk of a stroke or heart attack due to stiffening and narrowing of the body’s blood vessels. \n\nPerhaps for the same reason, wine appears to help prevent the onset of cognitive problems from Alzheimer’s disease and other types of dementia later in life. Some evidence also suggests that moderately high consumption of wine can also help prevent Type 2 diabetes and ulcers caused by a bacterium called H. pylori. \n\nBut aside from the obvious effects of overindulging, wine may not be as healthy as it’s made out to be. Drinking even in moderation can exacerbate a number of existing health conditions such as:\n\n* Congestive heart failure\n* High blood pressure\n* Neurological problems affecting balance and coordination\n* Pancreatitis\n* Liver disease\n* Asthma attacks \n\nAlthough doctors say moderate drinking, which is defined as a single glass of wine per day for women and two for men, is most likely safe, there’s a risk of addiction in vulnerable people. Plus, alcohol in large quantities can impair the memory, instead of support it.\n\nWine can affect your appearance, too. Like all alcoholic beverages, it’s dehydrating, which can make skin appear thinner and dryer. And because the average glass of wine has around a hundred calories, most of them from fast-burning carbohydrates, it can quickly contribute to unwanted weight gain.\n\n### The Science Behind Cannabis As a Wine Alternative \n\nAs cannabis moves into the mainstream, more and more people are discovering that it can fill just about any of the lifestyle and health niches that wine does. And it does so with fewer risks and side effects—and with more healing benefits, too.\n\nCannabinoid compounds such as tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD), bind to naturally occurring cannabinoid receptors in the human body. Endocannabinoids, produced by the body itself, and cannabinoids from external sources, most notably cannabis, trigger these receptors. \n\nThis means that when someone consumes cannabis, molecules in that cannabis enter the bloodstream and activate those receptors that affect just about every major system in the body. So marijuana’s effects include not just the well-known high, but also a long list of benefits like:\n\n* Pain control\n* Mood regulation\n* Heart health \n* Immune system support\n\nCannabinoids also affect the receptors related to the brain’s pleasure and reward pathways that regulate:\n\n* Relaxation \n* Anxiety \n* Euphoria\n\nAll of these effects are similar to the effects of alcohol. But the body doesn’t have any naturally occurring ethanol receptors. Instead, [alcohol affects the production of two key neurotransmitters](https://www.forbes.com/sites/daviddisalvo/2012/10/16/what-alcohol-really-does-to-your-brain/#11443070664e): \n\n* GABA, a “calming” chemical that lowers energy\n* Glutamate, an excitatory neurotransmitter that boosts the production of stimulant chemicals like adrenaline  \n\nCannabis affects those chemicals, too, but it does so by triggering natural endocannabinoid receptors.\n\nFor all of these reasons, plus the fact that cannabis is minimally addictive, if at all, marijuana doesn’t cause all of the discomforts of a morning-after hangover. \n\n### Making the Switch From Wine to Cannabis\n\nSo, cannabis is quietly replacing wine in the lives of many casual drinkers—and it’s giving rise to its own culture of marijuana products geared towards wine lovers. Folks are even starting to [think about marijuana strains’ tastes and aromas like wine-tasting notes](https://sipnorthwest.com/5-cannabis-strains-shops-for-wine-lovers/). This gives wine lovers a clue as to which cannabis strains they’d prefer, as well as puts cannabis in a framework that wine drinkers are familiar with and can understand.  \n\nPeople who have replaced their evening glass of wine with a few puffs from a vape pen or a nibble from a tasty marijuana edible report feeling relaxed and social without the other effects of wine and other spirits. Cannabis can also help with sleep without disrupting natural sleep cycles the way that wine often can. \n\nIf you’d like to try swapping wine for cannabis, here are a few things to keep in mind:\n\nJust as various varieties of wine can have different effects, so can different strains of cannabis and how they’re consumed. For social occasions, try an upbeat sativa or sativa-dominant hybrid strain like:\n\n* Chocolope\n* Pineapple Express\n\nThese two marijuana strains can boost feelings of relaxation and camaraderie while leaving you alert and focused.\n\nBut if you’re drinking a glass of wine or two to wind down and get to sleep, indica strains and products high in CBD can promote the kind of deep relaxation that calms anxiety and helps with sleep.  \n\nIf you’re looking to marijuana to help you unwind and sleep, look into heavy indica strains like: \n\n* Grandaddy Purple\n* Berry White\n\nAnd if you don’t want to experience any psychoactive effects, you can opt for a hemp-derived CBD product. Many are formulated to help you relax and sleep, such as:\n\n* Relax Vape Pen by Select\n* Elevate Luxe Soak by Verte Essentials\n\nSmoking or vaping cannabis can produce its effects fairly quickly, and so can tinctures and sublingual tabs or lozenges that deliver cannabinoids into the mucous membranes of the mouth. It can take considerably longer (up to a couple of hours) to feel the effects of edibles, though, and this can be problematic when you’re looking for the equivalent of a few glasses of wine with friends. \n\nIf you choose to go with a cannabis product, read the packaging to see what a dose or portion is. You may want to start with even half of a dose at first to see how it affects you. If you’re consuming cannabis flower, take as little as possible and then wait to see how you feel. You can always take more if you feel you need it, but you can’t take less if you take too much.\n\nBoth wine and cannabis have a long history of helping humans feel better. But today’s cannabis consumers are finding that their favorite products can offer the same effects as a glass of wine, without the calories and other side effects.\n\nPhoto credit: [Burst](https://www.pexels.com/@burst)\n \nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-what-you-need-to-know-about-marijuana/) index of articles. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.\n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/14b42/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.jpg","srcSet":"/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/f836f/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.jpg 200w,\n/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/2244e/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.jpg 400w,\n/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/14b42/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.jpg 800w,\n/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/47498/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.jpg 1200w,\n/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/0e329/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.jpg 1600w,\n/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/43576/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.jpg 3653w","srcWebp":"/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/58556/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/61e93/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.webp 200w,\n/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/1f5c5/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.webp 400w,\n/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/58556/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.webp 800w,\n/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/99238/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.webp 1200w,\n/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/7c22d/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.webp 1600w,\n/static/45dc33317b7a60ab020b810698686e31/35449/81fc1be41bf8016b0ae821135b3bd668.webp 3653w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2745-markdown","title":"8 Fast Facts About the History of Cannabis in the U.S.","slug":"8-fast-facts-about-the-history-of-cannabis-in-the-us","content":"Marijuana in the U.S. has a rich and colorful history: From the plant’s beginnings on the continent as a staple colonial crop to its effective outlaw status in 1937, and now with its new resurgence, our relationship with the plant is everchanging. On Independence Day, we take a look at the United States’ relationship with marijuana—the good, the bad and everything in between. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### 1. Cannabis in the Form of Hemp Was an Important Part of Colonial Life\n\nLet’s start with some tidbits you may have picked up from your pro-marijuana uncle at Thanksgiving dinner: Hemp was a crucial part of the New World economy. So much so that Virginia passed a law in 1619 that required every farm in the colony grow hemp. The fibrous plant was used for the production of sails, clothing and rope.  \n\nMany of the founding fathers also grew the cash crop including George Washington, Thomas Jefferson and John Adams. Contrary to popular myth, the Constitution and Declaration of Independence weren’t written on hemp paper; they were written on parchment, or animal skins. Though, it’s possible that drafts of the documents were written on hemp paper, as it was popular at the time. \n\nRELATED: [WHAT IS HEMP & WHAT IS IT USED FOR](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56dfbf5fab06d8000c000076/what-is-hemp-and-what-is-it-used-for)\n\n### 2. Cannabis Was Sold in Pharmacies Across the West in the late 1800s & early 1900s\n\nIn 1842, Irish physician William Brooke O’Shaughnessy returned from his travels in India and brought cannabis to Britain, renewing interest in the plant’s medicinal properties among Westerners. \n\nFrom the late 1800s to early 1900s, cannabis—often mixed with other drugs and in the form of tinctures—was a popular sight on pharmacy shelves across the U.S. Marijuana was used as a remedy for everything from pain and insomnia to muscle spasms and seizures. \n\n### 3. Smokable Cannabis Entered the U.S. via Mexico & the Caribbean \n\nIn the 1910s, Mexican refugees, fleeing violence from the Mexican Revolution, brought cannabis with them to the U.S., particularly to Texas. Cannabis had been brought to Latin America multiple times in the 1700s and was often smoked; its use there was already well-established. \n\nAround the same time, cannabis arrived in New Orleans and other coastal cities from the Caribbean. It was here that the plant began to take root in what would become jazz culture. Jazz musicians brought the plant with them to cities throughout the Midwest—including St. Louis, Kansas City and Chicago. \n\nThe popularity of cannabis among Latinos and African Americans birthed the stereotype of the plant as a “colored people’s drug,” a notion that Harry Anslinger, the first commissioner of the U.S. Treasury Department's Federal Bureau of Narcotics, would take advantage of in the years to come.  \n\nRELATED: [MARIJUANA’S STORIED HISTORY: FROM ANCIENT TIMES TO NOW](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5ad6746f049b4f000a64e890/marijuanas-storied-history-from-ancient-times-to-now)\n\n### 4. Alcohol Prohibition May Have Helped Popularize Cannabis \n\n![](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-12196254-3e36-42d0-88e1-4eb89638918a/original.png)\n\nIn 1920, the Volstead Act established alcohol prohibition in the U.S. Though there’s no direct evidence to point to, historian Barney Warf, who authored the paper [_High Points: An Historical Geography of Cannabis_](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/epdf/10.1111/j.1931-0846.2014.12038.x), theorizes that Prohibition may have contributed to the popularization of cannabis. \n\n“Tea pads” began appearing in Harlem and soon spread across the country; they were often associated with the black “hepster” jazz scene. These pads, which often resembled speakeasies, were places where folks could go to purchase and consume marijuana in a peaceful, comfortable atmosphere. By the 1930s, it’s estimated that there were about 500 tea pads in New York City. \n\n### 5. Henry Anslinger Sculpted Marijuana’s Negative Image & Sold It to the Masses\n\n![Henry Anslinger promotes a negative image of cannabis](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-1e2e3b11-30c6-424e-8523-9c9a443fe05b/original.png)\n\nYou can thank Henry Anslinger, commissioner of the Federal Bureau of Narcotics (which would later become the Drug Enforcement Administration, or DEA), for promoting a negative image of marijuana. \n\nIn his 32-year career, Henry frequently dismissed scientific evidence, which stated that cannabis use didn’t lead to violent behavior or the use of addictive drugs. He manipulated public opinion, causing many to believe that cannabis use:\n\n* Led to temporary insanity \n* Was addictive\n* Was a gateway drug\n\nHe also promoted the narrative that the plant was used by communities of color and linked this use to violence and crime. His efforts would ultimately culminate in the passage of the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937, which didn’t distinguish hemp from marijuana and placed all production of cannabis under government control. \n\n### 6. The U.S. Re-legalized Hemp During WWII—Then Promptly Criminalized It Again \n\n![Hemp for Victory film](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/markdown-image-injector-185a1117-face-41ea-b0ab-46c140bb261d/original.png)\n\nDuring World War II, industrial fibers that were often imported from overseas were in short supply, prompting the federal government to lift the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937. To encourage farmers to grow hemp, and likely to explain the lifting of a ban of a substance that they’d recently promoted as extremely dangerous, the U.S. government released a film titled _Hemp for Victory_ in 1942. The film goes through the history of hemp and how it was used for rope and cloth.\n\nShortly after the war, the DEA initiated a series of anti-hemp programs, and the plant was once again criminalized. \n\n### 7. Beatniks & Hippies Popularized Cannabis Use in White America \n\nIn the 1960s, use of cannabis among America’s white middle class began to expand. This phenomenon is credited to the Beatniks, who made a drug often associated with poor communities of color seem more approachable. The hippie counterculture movement would popularize the plant further, though it did little to change cannabis’s illegal status.\n\nIn fact, as most cannabis consumers know, the worst was yet to come: In 1970, the Controlled Substances Act would classify cannabis as a Schedule I drug, a substance with high abuse potential, no medical use and severe safety concerns. This classification, in combination with mandatory drug sentencing laws, would disproportionately affect men of color. \n\n### 8. The AIDS Epidemic Brought Medical Marijuana to the Forefront of the Public’s Mind\n\nWhen the AIDS epidemic hit the U.S. in the 1980s, there was no medicine to combat the virus’s effects. Eventually, the FDA approved a drug called azidothymidine (AZT). While it was effective and manageable for some AIDS patients, for others its side effects only seemed to worsen the disease’s already debilitating symptoms, which included nausea, fatigue and cachexia.\n\nNaturally, people with AIDS gravitated towards marijuana for its ability to relieve nausea and stimulate appetite, in spite of its contraband status. And so began the fight to legalize marijuana for medical purposes. [This movement was led in part by activists Dennis Peron](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5b1832a9bf4c4d000a0e743d/how-lgbtq-activists-brought-medical-marijuana-to-the-masses) and Mary Jane Rathburn, whose work received much media attention. Dennis would go on to draft and pass Proposition 215, which legalized medical marijuana in California. \n\nTo date, there are 30 states plus Washington, D.C., where medical cannabis is legal and nine states plus Washington D.C., where adult-use cannabis is legal. Meanwhile, more than a dozen states allow very limited medical use of marijuana.\n\nPublic perception about the plant is changing: Major polls by Gallup and the Pew Research Center indicate that the majority (over 60%) of Americans support marijuana legalization. It’s taken decades for the cannabis community to undo the misinformation spread by Henry Anslinger and like-minded officials. With marijuana still illegal at the federal level, time will tell whether this work has been enough to bring the plant into a new light. \n\nPhoto credits: [Jurassic Blueberries](https://www.flickr.com/photos/jurassicblueberries/) (main image); [Orange County Archives](https://www.flickr.com/photos/ocarchives/) (alcohol prohibition); [Wikipedia](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/5/55/ReeferMadness_13.jpg) (Henry Anslinger); [Wikimedia](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/33/Hemp_for_Victory_1942.webm) (Hemp for Victory).\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/14b42/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.jpg","srcSet":"/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/f836f/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.jpg 200w,\n/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/2244e/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.jpg 400w,\n/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/14b42/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.jpg 800w,\n/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/47498/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.jpg 1200w,\n/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/0e329/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.jpg 1600w,\n/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/c62f6/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.jpg 2005w","srcWebp":"/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/58556/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/61e93/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.webp 200w,\n/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/1f5c5/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.webp 400w,\n/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/58556/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.webp 800w,\n/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/99238/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.webp 1200w,\n/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/7c22d/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.webp 1600w,\n/static/947fafe910054d21d38faf6a43d765ef/3a4e8/d33d5ea4e1c944627f882e8dc6904399.webp 2005w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2740-markdown","title":"Big Alcohol Is Eyeing Cannabis, Is That Good or Bad?","slug":"big-alcohol-is-eyeing-cannabis-is-that-good-or-bad","content":"For many cannabis consumers, enjoying a cold Bud with a bud is a natural combination. For others, marijuana is part of a wellness program, which helps reduce alcohol consumption. And still some cannabis opponents don’t hesitate to lump together “weed and wine” as dangerous intoxicants that should be avoided at all costs. \n\nFor years, powerful alcohol interests took an adversarial stance toward cannabis—even spending lobbying money and advertising dollars to help defeat marijuana legalization efforts. But public perception about cannabis is shifting rapidly. A recent Gallup Poll reports that [65% of Americans believe smoking marijuana is “morally acceptable.”](https://news.gallup.com/poll/235250/say-consuming-alcohol-marijuana-morally.aspx)\n\nWith the cannabis industry’s financial potential piquing the interest of liquor companies, is their involvement in this fledgling industry a good or bad thing? \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Why Is Big Alcohol Interested in Cannabis? \n\nAs with everything else in today’s complex economy, you only need to follow the money to figure out why Big Alcohol has taken notice of the marijuana industry. A 2017 study by the University of Connecticut found that in regions where cannabis is legal, [monthly alcohol sales have fallen by 15%](https://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=3063288). A 2016 study in Colorado, Oregon and Washington confirmed that [beer sales underperformed in the two years following cannabis legalization](http://norml.org/news/2016/12/22/report-beer-sales-fall-in-states-with-retail-marijuana-markets) in those states. \n\nOther studies indicate that cannabis consumers aren’t pairing marijuana with alcohol use; [they’re consuming cannabis as a substitute](http://norml.org/news/2014/02/20/cannabis-may-be-a-substitute-for-alcohol-study-says/). If this trend continues, it could spell trouble for the liquor industry. \n\nRELATED: [CAN CANNABIS BE A HEALTHIER SUBSTITURE FOR ALCOHOL?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a6630a88425e40008273a34/can-cannabis-be-a-healthier-substitute-for-alcohol)\n\n### When Pitted Against Each Other, Alcohol Comes Up Short Next to Cannabis\n\nMembers of the alcohol industry know that liquor is responsible for a staggering number of health conditions, as well as 90,000 deaths per year, according to the Centers for Disease Control. Conversely, cannabis has no known fatal dose. Experts might disagree about whether cannabis can be proven to be good for people, but all of us know alcohol has been shown to be extremely bad for many. \n\nThe alcohol industry has spent incalculable amounts of money touting the one health idea they’ve got: that drinking a glass of wine per day is good for you. Meanwhile, the cannabis industry can point to a growing list of health benefits that are gaining acceptance by medical practitioners. Many of marijuana’s relatively minor side effects like increased appetite or dry mouth can be controlled by the user. \n\n### Cannabis, Wine, Women & Wellness\n\nThe [uptick in cannabis sales that Big Alcohol is observing](https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2018/04/26/trading-wine-weed-legal-marijuana/550949002/) could be tied to cannabis’s health benefits and alcohol’s health risks. Some analysts note that it’s the wine, and not the beer industry, that may soon feel the financial pinch. This is because cannabis offers women an alternative to their relaxation routine of an evening glass of rosé. \n\nAnother reason [women and some adults are turning to cannabis over alcohol is simple: calories](https://www.forbes.com/sites/mikeadams/2018/05/01/marijuana-gives-health-conscious-consumers-something-alcohol-cannot/#317389b630ba). While younger alcohol consumers may not be concerned about alcohol’s calorific expense, people in their 40s and older have started to pay attention to the fact that smoking a marijuana pre-roll or eating a 10 mg cannabis gummy has a fraction of the calories or the carbs of a glass of wine or a flight of beers.\n\nThat said, cannabis is well known for bringing on the munchies. However, recent research has found that regular cannabis consumers have smaller waists and a lower BMI (body mass index) than their non-cannabis-consuming counterparts.\n\nRELATED: [THE MUNCHIES WILL MAKE YOU FAT, RIGHT? THINK AGAIN.](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56cb9d8ececb1b000b000073/the-munchies-will-make-you-fat-right-think-again)\n\nSo, is the wine industry eyeing legal marijuana like beer and liquor companies are? Rebel Coast seems to be the first winery combining its product with marijuana. The company has come up with a [tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) oil-infused sauvignon blanc](https://www.investors.com/news/marijuana-industry-cannabis-business-threaten-beer-industry-420/ ).\n\nFor now, until regulations change, the alcohol must be removed from the wine and the focus is on taste. Brewers and vintners see some promise in large-sale cannabis-infused wine and beer, because of their ability to make a very consistent product from one batch to another. \n\n### Canada, Corona & Cannabis? \n\nSo, Big Alcohol isn’t wasting any time getting into the cannabis market. To see how this is playing out, watch what’s happening in Canada. Our neighbors to the north very recently became the first G7 country to nationally legalize recreational cannabis.\n\nConstellation Brands Inc. is an alcohol powerhouse. They own Corona Beer, Svedka Vodka and many other well-known alcohol brands. In February, in anticipation of Canada’s cannabis legalization, they purchased a [9.9% stake in Canopy Growth, one of Canada’s biggest suppliers of medical marijuana](https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2017-10-30/liquor-industry-pushes-into-pot-with-constellation-s-canopy-deal). \n\nSouthern Glazer’s is the largest liquor distributor in the United States. The American company distributes wine and spirits in 35 states as well as in Canada. In May, it announced a partnering with Aphria, Canada’s largest legal cannabis producer. This deal pairs the enormous liquor distributor with one of the three largest cannabis companies in Canada.\n\nTo some, this all may seem like a Big Alcohol takeover. Others may see the injection of the alcohol industry’s considerable capital as a way to push forward cannabis research and product development as well as make legal cannabis even more accessible to consumers. When announcing the deal, [Aphria made sure to highlight Southern Glazer’s wide-reaching infrastructure and distribution operations](https://www.thestar.com/business/2018/05/17/aphria-strikes-deal-with-wine-and-spirits-supplier-southern-glazers-for-cannabis-distribution.html).  \n\nIn a fledgling industry with lots of competition and a continuing stigma attached to the product, it makes sense why a Canadian cannabis company would say yes to all of the advantages a Big Alcohol deal brings.\n\nAlcohol companies collaborating within the marijuana industry could also mean that the plant and its products will gain mainstream acceptance that much quicker. This could help break the many negative stereotypes attached to cannabis that persist today.\n\nTo make this happen, Big Alcohol will have to go about its new investments in the right way, listen to its marijuana industry counterparts, and hopefully keep the integrity of the plant and its products in mind. Of course, because of the United States’ federal ban on cannabis, these titans of alcohol aren’t talking about working within the U.S. cannabis market—yet. \n\n### Are Cannabis-Alcohol Mergers Inevitable? \n\nTorsten Kuenzlen is a former executive for The Coca-Cola Co. and Molson Coors. He signed on with Sundial Growers, a Canadian cannabis firm. Mr. Kuenzlen doesn’t mince words when he says, [“We know that virtually all alcohol companies are very carefully looking at the cannabis space and looking to partner in some shape or form.”](https://mjbizdaily.com/virtually-alcohol-firms-looking-cannabis-qa-ex-coors-exec-new-sundial-ceo/) \n\nFrom the regulatory standpoint, there has always been a push to treat cannabis the same way as liquor. Investors seem to agree and [analysts foresee cannabis mimicking alcohol](https://www.cnbc.com/2018/04/20/marijuanas-margin-like-alcohol-is-going-to-be-captured-in-the-end-product-investor-says.html). They predict that it won’t be the actual cannabis plant matter that sells, rather products derived from the plant like edibles, tinctures, vape cartridges and topicals. This is much like the beer and wine industries in that we don’t buy grapes or hops, but products derived from them.\n\nThe numbers don’t lie. With estimates that [U.S. cannabis sales could top $30 billion](https://www.investors.com/news/marijuana-sales-after-legalization-compares-with-beer-wine-cigarette-sales/) by 2030, and with current U.S. wine sales estimated to be at about $60 billion, it’s no wonder that liquor industry executives are putting down bottles and picking up vape pens.\n\n### Make Your Voice Heard on Big Alcohol in Cannabis\n\nIn Sonoma, Mendocino and Napa counties, as well as many other Central California regions where the climate is favorable for the production of wine grapes and cannabis, dozens of regulations governing water use, stream siltation and even disabled access parking in vineyards and cannabis orchards are completely different. Cannabis farmers are held to standards that agriculture experts agree couldn’t be met by the majority of grape growers.\n\n“I can’t tell you how upset it makes me when I’m being forced to pay tens of thousands of dollars to comply with environmental regulations that my neighbor who grows grapes doesn’t have to comply with,” one farmer told HelloMD.\n\nIf you feel strongly about the alcohol industry’s growing involvement in legal marijuana, reach out to your city and county governments to make your voice heard. Talk to dispensary operators, who are often among the most informed people in the cannabis movement. Many counties have citizen-based committees helping draft their local ordinances.\n\nYour cannabis expertise could be invaluable to your community. When it comes to creating an inclusive industry that welcomes and supports small and large operators, lawmakers need to hear a spectrum of voices—not just the lobbyists representing Big Alcohol.\n\nPhoto credit: [Eaters Collective](https://unsplash.com/@eaterscollective)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/14b42/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.jpg","srcSet":"/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/f836f/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.jpg 200w,\n/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/2244e/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.jpg 400w,\n/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/14b42/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.jpg 800w,\n/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/47498/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.jpg 1200w,\n/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/0e329/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.jpg 1600w,\n/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/8bb93/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.jpg 3906w","srcWebp":"/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/58556/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/61e93/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.webp 200w,\n/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/1f5c5/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.webp 400w,\n/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/58556/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.webp 800w,\n/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/99238/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.webp 1200w,\n/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/7c22d/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.webp 1600w,\n/static/150540003642df9e3864f5d555a9a011/653aa/98e0bba55230bd908d08cac589a10b59.webp 3906w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2731-markdown","title":"Studies Find Cannabis Can Protect Drinkers’ Livers","slug":"studies-find-cannabis-can-protect-drinkers-livers","content":"Cannabis and alcohol are the two most popular recreational substances around, so it’s not unusual to see the two consumed together. Still, news about [the way that cannabis and alcohol interact with each other](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58e7bbf32fdeaf51a1a08384/mixing-marijuana-and-alcohol) has led many to advise against combining them. In fact, in California it’s now explicitly illegal to sell products that contain cannabis and alcohol together. \n\nBut new research is making experts think twice about banning this common combination. Scientists now believe that cannabis could have one very important effect when used with alcohol: preventing alcoholic liver disease (ALD).  If enjoying a beer or cocktail is already part of your regular relaxation routine, adding cannabis just might help save you from the effects of ALD. \n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### What Is Alcoholic Liver Disease?\n\n[ALD is a condition caused by excessive drinking for long periods of time](https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/215638.php). When alcohol is consumed it can have a damaging effect on the liver including increasing liver inflammation, building up fats in the organ and even scarring the liver. Over time, this can lead to increasingly serious damage and eventually death. \n\nThis tragic and preventable condition takes almost 20,000 lives a year in the U.S. alone and is the third-most common cause of liver transplants. \n\nALD is classified by four stages: \n\n1. Alcoholic fatty liver disease (steatosis): This is when fat deposits start to build up in the liver. It can happen in as little as a week and is usually reversible with alcohol abstinence.  \n2. Alcoholic hepatitis (steatohepatitis): After many years of heavy drinking, the liver becomes chronically inflamed. This is also often reversible by abstaining from alcohol. \n3. Fibrosis: This stage is characterized by a buildup of certain proteins in the liver. It may be reversible if mild to moderate. \n4. Cirrhosis: When the liver is inflamed for long periods of time, loss of function and scarring occur. This damage is irreversible and life-threatening. \n\nAdditionally, these stages of ALD put drinkers at high risk for liver cancer.\n\n### Research Shows Cannabis Can Help Prevent ALD\n\nIn a surprising twist, it turns out that the disease caused by one popular recreational substance may be prevented by another. \n\nResearchers were curious about cannabis and alcohol’s combined effect on the liver since it hadn’t been studied in depth. With increasing numbers turning to this combination, it was important to make sure cannabis wasn’t compounding alcohol’s negative effects. After all, many recreational substances seem to put stress on the liver. \n \nBut what researchers found was just the opposite. Users with the highest levels of cannabis use had much lower rates of ALD. \n\nIn one study, [researchers looked at the four stages of ALD and liver cancer among 320,000 individuals with alcohol use disorder](https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/pdf/10.1111/liv.13696). They analyzed the data to see whether cannabis use had any effect on the different stages of ALD. And they found that cannabis consumers had significantly lower rates of ALD at all stages of the disease. \n\nSpecifically, alcohol drinkers who also consumed cannabis had the following reductions in ALD stages:\n\n* 45% reduction in steatosis, or alcoholic fatty liver disease \n* 40% reduction in steatohepatitis, or alcoholic hepatitis \n* 55% reduction in alcoholic cirrhosis and fibrosis\n* 75% reduction in hepatocellular carcinoma, or liver cancer\n\nWhile any cannabis use seemed to play a protective role for the liver, those categorized as dependent cannabis users (those who consumed it the most) had the lowest rates of ALD. This suggests that more cannabis is better when it comes to protecting the liver from the deadly long-term effects of alcohol. \n\nThese results add to conclusions from a previous study, which found that [the cannabinoid cannabidiol (CBD) use was tied to lower levels of ALD](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24398069). This new research seems to suggest that cannabis in general, as well as CBD alone, is effective at reducing ALD. \n\nAnother important study shows that [cannabis consumption is tied to lower levels of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5648282/) as well. So, cannabis may protect our livers in general, not just when drinking alcohol. \n\nStill, since drinkers are at high risk for liver disease, they’re an especially vulnerable population that could benefit from adding cannabis into their routine. Switching out alcohol use for cannabis consumption is healthier for the liver, given what we know from the research. But if drinking is unavoidable, adding in cannabis could really help, too. \n\n### How Cannabis Helps Reduce ALD\n\nThere are many reasons why cannabis has such an incredible effect on the liver. But one of the main ways is through [cannabis’s anti-inflammatory properties](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/55a3f31338323000062f0000/medical-marijuana-as-an-aid-against-inflammation). Much of the damage sustained by the liver during the progress of ALD is a result of the long- term inflammation and swelling caused by alcohol consumption. \n\nRELATED: [CAN CANNABIS BE A HEALTHIER SUBSTITUTE FOR ALCOHOL?](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5a6630a88425e40008273a34/can-cannabis-be-a-healthier-substitute-for-alcohol)\n\nCannabis is known to calm inflammation, reduce swelling and lessen the damage inflammation causes. Those consuming both alcohol and cannabis are, in a way, canceling out one with the other. Alcohol increases inflammation, but then cannabis brings it back down. While this isn’t a foolproof method (remember that many alcoholics who consume cannabis will still get ALD), it definitely lowers the risks. \n\nOther researchers say that [cannabis helps by preventing the oxidative stress caused by alcohol](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24398069). Alcohol can also weaken the body’s natural ability for autophagy—the process by which damaged or redundant cellular components are destroyed. Cannabis seems to increase autophagy, which may help the liver repair itself. \n\nIf you’re interested in consuming cannabis to help prevent or treat ALD, the best first step is to talk to a doctor with cannabis expertise. Your doctor can help go over your current conditions, and let you know what cannabis options are best suited to you.\n\nNeed to find a cannabis doctor? You can [video-chat with HelloMD’s knowledgeable doctors](https://www.hellomd.com/talk-to-doctor) today, from the comfort and privacy of your own home.  \n\nPhoto credit: [Toa Heftiba](https://unsplash.com/@heftiba)\n\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/56201c206430320006bb0000/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online. \n","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/14b42/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg","srcSet":"/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/f836f/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 200w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/2244e/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 400w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/14b42/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 800w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/47498/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 1200w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/0e329/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 1600w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/b85df/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.jpg 3500w","srcWebp":"/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/58556/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/61e93/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 200w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/1f5c5/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 400w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/58556/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 800w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/99238/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 1200w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/7c22d/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 1600w,\n/static/ba10ac8919e273d1d544e5f6cbec31ec/b6f33/006181ea9de0f4aab2f5e212953f3503.webp 3500w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2593-markdown","title":"Top 4 Trends in Cannabis for 2018","slug":"top-4-trends-in-cannabis-for-2018","content":"Working in the cannabis industry, I’m always amazed by how quickly the landscape changes. New trends seem to spring out of the ground, some taking hold with others dying off almost as quickly as they appeared. Now that we’ve fully entered into the new year, it’s time to look at my first installment of the top trends dawning in 2018. Here’s my list of the top four marijuana trends for 2018.\n\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\n\n### Trend #1: Cannabis Goes Mainstream Worldwide\n\n`embed: https://www.instagram.com/p/BgcOvNHFAs3/`\n_Kikoko's cannabis teas are featured in Oprah's magazine._\n\nWhen my co-founder and I launched HelloMD over four years ago in California, more than a few people made it clear to us that getting into this industry was “a lot like getting into porn or gambling.” The implication was that it was an industry hiding in the shadows and moreover something to be ashamed of. Friends suggested that I make a “Plan B” and told me that having a family while getting involved in cannabis was on the fringe of what might be considered “respectable.” I was called a drug dealer more times than I care to think about, even though product sales was not a part of our roadmap at the time.\n\nFast forward to today, and everything’s changing—and fast. As of now, nine U.S. states have recreational cannabis laws and 19 more states allow marijuana for medical use. Opinion polls indicate that 61% of Americans support cannabis legalization, the highest it’s ever been. Canada, our progressive neighbor to the north, is now dwarfing the U.S. in regards to cannabis research, development and a federal government that supports medicinal and adult-use marijuana among the general population. Not to mention the fact that the Canadian stock exchange is going crazy for marijuana companies. \n\nThe cannabis industry is also now looking to Germany, where the federal government is embracing legalization and cannabis as a “[doctor-prescribed, insurance-paid, and pharmacy-provided product](https://internationalcbc.com/could-germany-become-the-worlds-largest-cannabis-market/).” Germany, the largest member state of the European Union, is now poised to possibly be the world’s largest cannabis market, with its 82 million citizens and positive economic growth forecast.\n\nAnd women are stepping forward, supporting cannabis in the myriad ways that it may be used and consumed. I’ve held a firm belief since my time starting in the cannabis industry, that marijuana would begin to really go mainstream when women embraced the consumption of cannabis. This includes moms who use cannabis to help ease their children’s seizures as well as women who merely advocate for using cannabis as a way to relax and unwind. \n\nWe’ve seen Gwyneth Paltrow vaping within the glossy pages of her magazine _Goop_. In an interview, she states, “It’s incredible to see people who can’t sleep, or people who have chronic pain, report really positive results (with marijuana), and it’s a natural substance.” And most recently, _O Magazine_ did a feature article on Kikoko, an innovative women-owned business in California that hosts high-end tea parties with cannabis-infused tea. When Oprah Winfrey deems cannabis acceptable enough to grace her pages, it’s time to take note. \n\n**FORECAST:** We’ve reached the tipping point. 2018 is the year that cannabis comes out of the closet and goes mainstream. Women will be the driving force in mainstream acceptance as stigma decreases and more mainstream stars, such as Oprah, give cannabis their stamp of approval.\n\n### Trend #2: Cannabis as an Alcohol Replacement\n\n![Cannabis replaces alcohol](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5abbda6ff24d1300077ccba1-7653114a-fe13-4cc5-9b6a-7a0faf8261a4/original.jpg)\n\nRecently, I decided to reduce my alcohol intake, and sometimes use cannabis instead.  In my experience, microdosing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is an effective alcohol replacement, without any of the negative side effects that come with drinking alcohol. Consuming cannabidiol (CBD), which has anti-anxiety properties and is non-psychoactive, also helps me relax and unwind after a stressful day at work. Reasons for substituting alcohol with cannabis may vary person to person, but it’s clear that cannabis is starting to be viewed as a healthier substitute for alcohol.\n\nAlcohol is socially acceptable and taps into the pleasure-reward circuit in our brains, yet it causes a multitude of health problems—and in extreme cases death. Nearly 88,000 deaths are attributed to alcohol in the U.S. every year. It affects coordination, memory and even the executive functions of the cerebral cortex. It’s a depressant, can lead to alcoholism and damages the liver. And recent research has indicated that even moderate drinking can lead to brain damage. (Thanks, but I need all the brain cells I have left.) Alcohol is effectively a poison to our bodies; it’s a neurotoxin and, as we all know, can cause nasty unwanted hangovers the day after.\n\nCannabis also taps into our brain’s pleasure-reward circuit, allowing most people to feel good, if not euphoric. The big difference is that marijuana interacts with our endocannabinoid system (ECS), which has receptors throughout the body that respond to the compounds, or cannabinoids, within the plant. These cannabinoids create effects, depending on the person, such as pain relief, relaxation, an increased desire to sleep, decreased inflammation and even a stronger immune response, among other things. Even if someone consumes cannabis recreationally, they may have positive medical outcomes based on the properties inherent within the plant.\n\nFor the health conscious, or for folks who just want to reduce their intake of alcohol overall, cannabis is a great solution. A recent report indicates that millennials “are leading a major shift in consumption behavior as the stigma of cannabis use decreases and the collective perspective of cannabis shifts in a positive direction.” It seems that the purported medical benefits of cannabis minus the negative side effects of alcohol are making an excellent substitution for Friday night beers or Mommy’s chardonnay. In many instances, people have cited that they see marijuana as the “safer” choice over alcohol, and that with cannabis they’re less likely to make poor decisions, such as drinking and driving.\n\nAs people age, the risk of hangovers from alcohol increases. Consuming cannabis doesn’t lead to the same type of response. Although it’s not widely known why we get an alcohol hangover, some research indicates that it’s an inflammatory response that occurs in our bodies, similar to when we fight a viral infection. With cannabis, you don’t lose the entire day after, and as a result it feels as if it leads to a healthier and more active lifestyle for many.\n\nThe good news about this trend is that there have been zero cannabis-related deaths, so if society collectively shifts towards cannabis as an alcohol replacement, it may also save lives. And let’s face it, you don’t find many people in a bar fight after vaping cannabis.\n\n**FORECAST:** Cannabis is increasingly becoming more socially acceptable and is a great alternative to alcohol. As a result, people are taking notice. Expect to see more and more people abstaining from alcohol in lieu of cannabis as well as more cannabis gatherings where alcohol is decidedly absent.\n  \n### Trend #3: Cannabinoid THCV Can Help With Weight Management\n\n![THCV suppresses appetite](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5abbda6ff24d1300077ccba1-55da7ee6-514f-4b64-b1d8-9a01b68ee757/original.jpg)\n\nEveryone knows about THC, the rock star cannabinoid in marijuana that boasts not only numerous medicinal properties but the psychoactivity that produces the high cannabis is so well known for. People are now also aware of CBD, the other superstar cannabinoid that’s non-psychoactive and is also an analgesic, anti-inflammatory, anti-spasmodic; it’s also really good at quelling anxiety.\n\nNow we have a new cannabinoid kid on the block: tetrahydrocannabivarin (THCV)—and the hype may be warranted.\n\nTHCV was called the “[sports car of cannabinoids](https://www.steephill.com/blogs/38)” by Steep Hill labs for the strong energetic effect it creates. It contains around 25% of the psychoactivity of THC and may reduce or even stop panic attacks, which may be common for some people when ingesting strains higher in THC.\n\nTHCV is also known to be an anti-convulsant and a neuroprotectant; it may help with diabetes and is becoming well known for suppressing appetite. For people looking to eat less or radically suppress the desire to binge eat, THCV may be a possible solution. Note though, that THCV may make sleeping more difficult, so consuming it late at night to avoid fridge raids may be ill-advised.\n\nIt’s very rare to find THCV on its own. Most likely, it’s within cannabis flowers that also contain THC. Interestingly, THCV has the ability to alter some of THC’s effects, including elevated heart rate or impaired short-term memory. If you’re easily able to tolerate THC and enjoy psychoactive effects, THCV may be your ticket to weight management and increased energy.\n\n**FORECAST:** People who are interested in weight management and a more balanced high will be asking cannabis retailers for strains higher in THCV. This in turn will lead to more strains becoming available. In addition, THCV-dominant strains will start to appear as well as THCV distillates.\n\n### Trend #4: Indica & Sativa Are Out—Terpenes Are In \n\n![Phylos galaxy mapping cannabis genetics](https://hellomd-development.s3.amazonaws.com/articles-5abbda6ff24d1300077ccba1-eaa6b889-3c47-455f-9d97-69a398f9e90a/original.jpg)\n_The Phylos Galaxy, a data visualization of cannabis genetics._\n\n“Help me find an indica strain that will put me to sleep.” This is a common statement along with, “Which sativa will wake me up and help me feel more energetic, more focused?” Typically, people go into a dispensary, and the cannabis consultant might suggest an indica for sleep or relaxation, a sativa for energetic daytime use or a hybrid strain for something in between. But according to genetics researchers, these classifications are now misleading, if not downright untrue. Mowgli Holmes, a geneticist that started Phylos Bioscience says, “If there were ever discrete varieties like that (indica, sativa, hybrid), they're gone now—they've just been bred out of existence.”\n\nMowgli’s company is mapping the genetics of cannabis through DNA sequencing with the goal of understanding the evolutionary history of each strain in the hopes of helping people better understand what they’re consuming. Creating [data visualization from each cannabis sample](http://galaxy.phylosbioscience.com/) has allowed us to see how closely related—or not—one strain is to another.\n\nClusters within the galaxy show close relationships between varieties of cannabis such as OG Kush, one of the most popular strains sold on the market today. In other words, many varieties are closely related, but have little to or nothing to do with indica, sativa or hybrid. To complicate matters, varieties were crossed with each other more frequently over the past 40 years, resulting in a big mish mash, creating even less certainty over lineage.  \n\nIn lieu of sativa, indica and hybrid, many people are beginning to refer to the terpene profile of marijuana strains, which in many ways may have a larger impact on the overall effects as well as the therapeutic value of different cannabis strains. Terpenes are the oil compounds found in plants, such as cannabis, and some insects. They’re responsible for the taste and smell of cannabis plants, and possess medicinal benefits. There are 140 or more terpenes within cannabis, and they’re thought to increase the effects of the cannabinoids within cannabis. \n\nA recent study  by Dr. Ethan Russo, the director of research and development at the International Cannabis and Cannabinoids Institute, found that “[terpenoids are quite potent, and affect animal and even human behavior when inhaled](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3165946/).” They also noted that “[terpenes] display unique therapeutic effects that may contribute meaningfully to the entourage effects of cannabis-based medicinal extracts.”\n\nInterestingly, some terpenes act as an inhibitor to THC’s psychoactive high, which increases cannabis’s therapeutic values. Russo says terpenes “increase the potential of cannabis-based medicinal extracts to treat pain, inflammation, fungal and bacterial infections, depression, anxiety, addiction, epilepsy and even cancer.”\n\n**FORECAST:** We’ll see sativa, indica and hybrid used less and less in branded products and start to see individual terpenes listed when applicable.\n\nWe’ll have to see what the rest of 2018 has in store for the cannabis industry, but it’s clear that innovations in cannabis plants and products aren’t slowing down anytime soon. \n\nPhoto credits: [Josh Felise](https://unsplash.com/@jfelise) for main image; [Jamie Street](https://unsplash.com/@jamie452) for Trend #2 image; [Jonathan Rolande](https://www.flickr.com/photos/jonathanrolande/) for Trend #3 image; [Phylos Bioscience](http://galaxy.phylosbioscience.com/) for Trend #4 image\n \nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://hellomd.com/articles/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3605442176870748,"src":"/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/14b42/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg","srcSet":"/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/f836f/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 200w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/2244e/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 400w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/14b42/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 800w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/47498/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 1200w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/0e329/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 1600w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/808c6/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.jpg 1955w","srcWebp":"/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/58556/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/61e93/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 200w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/1f5c5/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 400w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/58556/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 800w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/99238/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 1200w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/7c22d/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 1600w,\n/static/1e823cd798c3e5aded7cdd46f5216b86/3d3a0/6a9d43cb63574ea090a0e84cf0967cf7.webp 1955w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2592-markdown","title":"Are Marijuana-Infused Alcoholic Drinks a Good Idea? ","slug":"are-marijuana-infused-alcoholic-drinks-a-good-idea","content":"As the medical and recreational cannabis industries continue to grow, new trends and products seem to pop up all the time. One that has been gaining steam is cannabis-infused alcohol. Companies are making [vodka with hemp](https://www.liquor.com/articles/hemp-vodka/#gs.wjF5jng), brewing beer with cannabis and infusing [marijuana into wine](http://www.fresnobee.com/living/food-drink/article174077661.html). But is mixing cannabis and alcohol safe? How do the two substances interact together in the body? Is there any way to dose marijuana accurately when it’s mixed with alcohol? \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### How Do Cannabis & Alcohol Interact in the Body?\r\n\r\nBefore you start experimenting with alcohol and cannabis, consider how these two substances interact in your body when consumed simultaneously—the possible side effects may not be worth it. \r\n\r\nThe truth is there simply isn’t a lot of scientific data on this yet. Most research related to mixing marijuana and alcohol explores what happens when you smoke marijuana after already imbibing alcohol, not what happens when you infuse alcohol with cannabis. While not exactly the same scenario, these studies do give us some clues about how cannabis and alcohol interact in the body together.\r\n\r\nA 2015 study by the American Association for Clinical Chemistry [looked at the effects cannabis and alcohol could have on each other when consumed one after the other](https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2015/05/150527112728.htm). Researchers observed 19 adults, giving some low doses of alcohol and others a placebo. After 10 minutes, some were given a high dose of vaporized cannabis, while others received a low dose of vaporized cannabis; the control group received a placebo. \r\n\r\nResearchers found that those who consumed alcohol before consuming cannabis experienced a much higher level of tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) in their bloodstream than those who hadn’t consumed alcohol first, regardless of the amount of alcohol or cannabis. The researchers concluded, “Any dose of alcohol combined with cannabis significantly increases levels of THC in blood.” \r\n\r\nSo what side effects could come from cannabis-infused alcohol? Both cannabis and alcohol are central nervous system depressants; when consumed, they can both separately cause sedation. Ingesting too much of both at the same time could result in serious grogginess, memory lapses, paranoia and nausea. \r\n\r\nRELATED: [MIXING MARIJUANA & ALCOHOL](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/58e7bbf32fdeaf51a1a08384/mixing-marijuana-and-alcohol)  \r\n\r\n### Tips for Drinking Marijuana-Infused Alcohol\r\n\r\nWhat we do know for sure is that when it comes to dosing, it’s difficult to get it right with cannabis-infused alcohol. That’s because alcohol works as an extremely effective solvent, used to extract terpenes and cannabinoids from the cannabis plant. So while throwing some cannabis flower into a bottle of vodka may seem relatively harmless, it can end up being highly concentrated and more potent than you may expect.\r\n\r\nIf you’re going to experiment with cannabis-infused alcohol or alcoholic beverages, it’s wise to do so in the comfort of your own home. As always, start slow and keep in mind that dosing marijuana accurately when alcohol is in the mix can be quite difficult.\r\n\r\nIf you’re infusing the alcohol yourself, add less cannabis than you think, as the final product can end up stronger than expected. Also, allow your body time to process your cocktail for at least 30 minutes before thinking about going back for a second round. \r\n\r\nHave you experimented with cannabis-infused alcohol or cocktails? If so, let us know about your experience in the comments. \r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Jez Timms](https://unsplash.com/@jeztimms)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 post. HelloMD can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3793103448275863,"src":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/14b42/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg","srcSet":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/f836f/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/2244e/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 400w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/14b42/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 800w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/47498/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 1200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/0e329/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 1600w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/ef470/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.jpg 3656w","srcWebp":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/58556/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/61e93/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/1f5c5/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 400w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/58556/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 800w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/99238/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 1200w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/7c22d/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 1600w,\n/static/841c3d753e164f60b185641e7d50e677/e45da/a54ffa46ccac88e5f13181c14589b6c6.webp 3656w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}},{"node":{"id":"Article_2610-markdown","title":"5 Reasons to Try Cannabis to Relieve Your Hangover","slug":"5-reasons-to-try-cannabis-to-relieve-your-hangover","content":"For a condition that’s commonly experienced by people across the world, we know remarkably little about what exactly causes a hangover. A group of researchers who’ve dubbed themselves the Alcohol Hangover Research Group are changing all that. Their work indicates that hangovers are an inflammatory response—similar to what happens to our bodies when we get an infection or an illness. \r\n\r\nThis theory might explain why marijuana, which has powerful anti-inflammatory properties, is sometimes touted as a hangover cure. While there’s no research on the matter, some evidence suggests cannabis can help us overcome the most debilitating symptoms of a hangover—namely nausea, headaches, stomach issues, fatigue and, of course, irritability. \r\n\r\nFOLLOW US ON [FACEBOOK](https://www.facebook.com/pg/hellomdcompany/posts/) & [INSTAGRAM](https://www.instagram.com/hellomd_com/?hl=en)\r\n\r\n### 1. Cannabis Can Nip Nausea in the Bud\r\n\r\nSometimes nausea from a hangover is so severe that you can’t keep anything down—not even water. Cannabis, with its well-established anti-emetic properties, can help you overcome that nausea so that you can get food and liquids into your body—a crucial step to feeling better.\r\n\r\nMedical marijuana patients undergoing chemotherapy and those with HIV/AIDS often use cannabis to help combat nausea, so there’s a good chance it could also help you the morning after a long, booze-filled night out. \r\n\r\n### 2. Cannabis Can Relieve the Pounding in Your Head\r\n\r\nHeadaches can be one of the hardest hangover symptoms to cope with. Thankfully, cannabis has a good track record in this department: The plant has been known to treat and prevent migraines for centuries.\r\n\r\nIn the United States, marijuana was a common headache cure that physicians turned to from 1874 all the way up to 1942. Even today, much anecdotal evidence exists for the use of marijuana in the treatment of headaches—no matter how the headaches originated.\r\n\r\nAdditionally, there are many marijuana strains on the market that are said to relieve cranial pain and pressure—some examples are [Headband](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ccfafd520d60009f4f4ac), [Durban Poison](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7cb16cd520d60009f4f4a3) and [Ghost Train Haze](https://www.hellomd.com/strains/5a7ce421d520d60009f4f4b7). \r\n\r\nRELATED: [THE 5 MOST POPULAR MARIJUANA STRAINS](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/5817b52aeab4e6000a28b544/the-5-most-popular-strains-of-cannabis)\r\n\r\n### 3. Cannabis Can Help Soothe Your Stomach \r\n\r\nRum bum, grog bog, the booze poos—whatever you want to call it, diarrhea the day after a night of drinking is a common occurrence. This nagging gastrointestinal (GI) discomfort can keep you from going about your day. \r\n\r\nLab research has shown that your gut contains a high concentration of cannabinoid receptors: places in the body where cannabis’s active constituents tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD) attach to elicit certain effects. This is likely part of the reason why cannabis is known to provide relief in patients with Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome and other GI issues. Those who use cannabis for these purposes say that it can help with cramping while also modulating diarrhea and constipation. \r\n\r\n### 4. The Right Cannabis Strain Can Help You Fight Fatigue\r\n\r\nGeneral sluggishness is a common hangover symptom—luckily, the right kind of cannabis can get you out of bed and working on your to-do list. While this may not be your ultimate goal on hangover day, marijuana can still help you feel less groggy and more focused—some sufferers of chronic fatigue syndrome use cannabis for just this purpose. If you have something to do on the day of a hangover, picking up a marijuana strain or product with uplifting sativa effects might be the way to go. \r\n\r\n### 5. Cannabis Can Make You Less Grouchy\r\n\r\nAny of the aforementioned symptoms could make anyone cranky. But in some folks, anxiety and depression are actual hangover symptoms. Luckily cannabis, which can have mood-boosting effects, might be able to help.\r\n\r\nIt’s still not clear what kind of effects cannabis can have on mood disorders, but those who use it for these types of conditions note that it promotes a general sense of calm and well-being. \r\n\r\nAnd if you’re just generally irritable because well, you feel awful, cannabis can help a lot of hangover symptoms, which in turn just puts you in a better mood. So the next time you’re struggling through a hangover, try a little bit of cannabis. It just might make you feel a little less miserable, and a whole lot better.\r\n\r\nPhoto credit: [Matthew Henry](https://unsplash.com/@matthewhenry)\r\n\r\nIf you’re new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our [Cannabis 101](https://www.hellomd.com/health-wellness/cannabis-101-your-quick-guide-to-medical-marijuana) post. [HelloMD](https://www.hellomd.com/) can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's easy, private and 100% online.  ","image":{"childImageSharp":{"fluid":{"base64":"data:image/jpeg;base64,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","aspectRatio":1.3888888888888888,"src":"/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/14b42/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.jpg","srcSet":"/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/f836f/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.jpg 200w,\n/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/2244e/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.jpg 400w,\n/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/14b42/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.jpg 800w,\n/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/47498/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.jpg 1200w,\n/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/0e329/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.jpg 1600w,\n/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/3e38a/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.jpg 3622w","srcWebp":"/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/58556/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.webp","srcSetWebp":"/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/61e93/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.webp 200w,\n/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/1f5c5/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.webp 400w,\n/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/58556/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.webp 800w,\n/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/99238/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.webp 1200w,\n/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/7c22d/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.webp 1600w,\n/static/4a4e24b12b234b47f44ad6cee1105c80/7280a/44e15858f8f5e6cbf718abbd494f7f0c.webp 3622w","sizes":"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px"}}}}}]}},"pageContext":{"limit":12,"skip":0,"numPages":2,"currentPage":1,"id":4931,"name":"Alcohol","slug":"alcohol","country":"US"}},"staticQueryHashes":["3949754563","4179947113","4202924991"]}