Should I Switch Out Alcohol for Cannabis? A Look at Health Risks and Solutions

Introduction

In recent years, there has been an increasing awareness of the dangers associated with alcohol consumption. Beyond the well-known risks such as impaired driving and addiction, alcohol has been directly linked to numerous serious health issues, including cancer and sleep dysfunction. 

The growing body of research shows that alcohol is not only a major contributor to preventable diseases but also disrupts vital bodily functions, like sleep, leading to a cascade of other health problems. The U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on Alcohol and Cancer Risk has highlighted alcohol as the third leading preventable cause of cancer in the United States, following tobacco and obesity. 

This awareness has raised a critical question: Can cannabis offer a safer, healthier alternative to alcohol? 

In this article, we will explore how alcohol affects the body and how cannabis might provide a better solution for health, particularly in terms of cancer risk, sleep quality, and pain management.

Related: Is Replacing Alcohol with Weed a Good Idea?

The Risks of Alcohol

Alcohol and Cancer

Alcohol is widely consumed in social settings, yet many people are unaware of the significant health risks it poses. The U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on Alcohol and Cancer Risk has made it clear that alcohol consumption is the third leading preventable cause of cancer, responsible for approximately 100,000 cases of cancer and 20,000 cancer-related deaths annually in the U.S. This makes alcohol a far greater public health threat than many realize. 

In fact, alcohol has been definitively linked to at least seven types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, liver, esophageal, oral cavity, throat, and laryngeal cancers. For example, 16.4% of all breast cancer cases are attributable to alcohol consumption, according to studies cited in the Surgeon General’s report.

One of the key findings from the Surgeon General’s Advisory is the fact that alcohol consumption, regardless of the type of beverage (beer, wine, or spirits), significantly increases the risk of developing these cancers. The risk increases with the amount of alcohol consumed, and even moderate drinking—defined as one drink per day for women and two for men—can elevate the likelihood of developing certain cancers, particularly in breast, mouth, and throat areas.

The Surgeon General has also advocated for public health campaigns and updated warning labels on alcohol products to reflect this cancer risk. However, the majority of Americans remain unaware of the connection between alcohol and cancer, underscoring the need for increased awareness and education around this issue.

Other Side Effects of Alcohol

Alcohol doesn’t just increase the risk of cancer; its widespread effects on the body can contribute to a variety of other health problems. Chronic alcohol use is particularly damaging to the liver, where it can lead to conditions such as fatty liver disease, cirrhosis, and alcoholic hepatitis. It is also a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases like high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Additionally, alcohol consumption can damage the brain, impair cognitive function, and contribute to mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, and alcohol use disorder.

The social and psychological consequences of excessive drinking are equally troubling. Heavy alcohol use often leads to poor decision-making, risky behavior, and long-term interpersonal issues. In fact, alcohol-related violence and accidents contribute significantly to public health concerns.

As we can see, alcohol consumption carries a broad range of risks that extend far beyond cancer. These risks highlight the importance of finding healthier alternatives for those looking to minimize their impact on their overall well-being.

Alcohol’s Impact on Sleep

How Alcohol Disrupts Sleep

Alcohol is often used as a sleep aid, with many people relying on it to help them fall asleep. However, while alcohol may initially promote drowsiness, it significantly disrupts the quality of sleep. One of the primary ways alcohol affects sleep is by interfering with the body’s natural sleep cycle, particularly Rapid Eye Movement (REM) sleep. REM sleep is crucial for cognitive function, memory consolidation, and emotional regulation. When alcohol is consumed, it suppresses REM sleep, leading to fragmented, unrefreshing sleep. As a result, people may wake up feeling tired and unrested, despite having spent an adequate amount of time in bed.

Furthermore, alcohol-induced sleep disruption can exacerbate other health conditions. For example, chronic sleep deprivation has been linked to an increased risk of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease. It also weakens the immune system, making the body more susceptible to infections. The relationship between alcohol and sleep dysfunction is thus a critical issue for public health, as poor sleep can trigger or worsen a wide range of physical and mental health problems.

Link Between Poor Sleep and Increased Cancer Risk

In addition to its direct effects on sleep quality, alcohol-induced sleep disruption can also contribute to an increased risk of cancer. Research has shown that chronic sleep deprivation can elevate the risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers. The mechanisms behind this relationship are not yet fully understood, but it is believed that poor sleep may affect the body’s ability to repair damaged DNA, regulate hormones, and maintain a healthy immune system. All of these factors can increase the likelihood of developing cancer.

A study published in the National Institutes of Health highlights the connection between sleep deprivation and higher cancer mortality rates, further emphasizing the need to address alcohol-related sleep issues in cancer prevention efforts.

Cannabis as a Potential Solution

Cannabis and Sleep

Given the numerous health risks associated with alcohol, many are turning to cannabis as a potential alternative, particularly when it comes to improving sleep. Cannabis has been shown to have a positive impact on sleep quality, with research indicating that it may help individuals with insomnia or other sleep disorders fall asleep faster and enjoy a more restful night of sleep. Unlike alcohol, cannabis does not suppress REM sleep to the same extent, allowing for more restorative sleep.

A study published in PubMed shows that cannabis use can improve sleep duration and quality, making it a promising option for those suffering from alcohol-related sleep dysfunction. Additionally, cannabis has fewer harmful side effects compared to alcohol, making it a safer alternative for long-term use.

Related: How Different Forms of Medical Marijuana Impact Sleep

Cannabis and Its Effect on Fibromyalgia

In addition to its benefits for sleep, cannabis has been found to help manage chronic pain, including conditions like fibromyalgia. Fibromyalgia is a condition characterized by widespread pain, fatigue, and sleep disturbances. Given that poor sleep can exacerbate fibromyalgia symptoms, cannabis may provide a dual benefit: improving sleep and reducing pain.

Research has shown that cannabis can help reduce pain intensity in fibromyalgia patients, offering relief from one of the condition’s most debilitating symptoms. As a result, cannabis may provide an effective way to manage fibromyalgia while also addressing the underlying sleep dysfunction that often accompanies it.

Related: How to Use CBD for Better Sleep: Tips and Tricks

Cannabis vs. Alcohol

When compared to alcohol, cannabis has a much lower risk of addiction and harm. While alcohol use can lead to physical dependence and addiction, cannabis is generally considered to have a much lower potential for abuse. Furthermore, cannabis does not carry the same risks for liver damage, cardiovascular problems, or cancer as alcohol does. As a result, cannabis offers a safer alternative for those seeking to reduce their alcohol consumption and improve their health.

Cannabis also has social and recreational benefits, making it a viable alternative to alcohol in social settings. With the growing trend of cannabis legalization in many regions, more people are turning to cannabis as a replacement for alcohol, seeking to enjoy the benefits of relaxation and socialization without the harmful side effects.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the dangers of alcohol consumption—particularly its link to cancer, sleep dysfunction, and a range of other health problems—cannot be overstated. Alcohol’s harmful effects on the body, mind, and sleep quality present a compelling case for exploring healthier alternatives. Cannabis, with its potential to improve sleep, reduce pain, and lower the risk of certain cancers, may offer a safer, more beneficial option. By replacing alcohol with cannabis, individuals may experience better overall health and well-being, free from the many dangers associated with alcohol.

For those looking to explore cannabis as a health solution, CannabisMD Telemed offers an excellent platform for obtaining a medical marijuana card in Virginia. With proper guidance and medical oversight, cannabis may prove to be a healthier, more effective alternative for managing sleep disorders, chronic pain, and even preventing cancer.

FAQs

• What happens when alcohol is mixed with cannabis?

  When alcohol is mixed with cannabis, the effects of both substances are often intensified. Alcohol, a depressant, can enhance the psychoactive effects of cannabis, which may lead to stronger sensations of dizziness, euphoria, or sedation. This can create an unpredictable experience, especially for individuals who are not accustomed to using either substance. As a result, the person may experience significant impairment of motor skills, coordination, and cognitive function. Furthermore, combining alcohol and cannabis can increase the likelihood of negative physical effects, such as nausea, dizziness, and heightened anxiety. The combination can also stress the liver, as both substances are metabolized through it, which may exacerbate the risk of liver damage over time.

• What happens if you drink alcohol and smoke at the same time?

  Drinking alcohol and smoking cannabis at the same time can lead to intensified effects, often referred to as being "crossfaded." This happens because alcohol increases the absorption of THC (the active ingredient in cannabis), making its effects stronger. As a result, individuals may feel an amplified sense of intoxication, leading to greater impairment of judgment, motor coordination, and overall cognitive function. The heightened effects of both substances can lead to an uncomfortable experience, with some people experiencing nausea, dizziness, or confusion. Additionally, being crossfaded can increase the risk of accidents or injuries, as both alcohol and cannabis impair motor skills and decision-making ability. This combination can also put additional strain on the body’s systems, especially when it comes to processing both substances at the same time.

• What's it called when you're high and drunk?

  When a person is both intoxicated by alcohol and under the influence of cannabis, the state is commonly referred to as being "crossfaded." This term describes the combination of alcohol’s depressant effects with the psychoactive properties of cannabis, which can lead to a potent and unpredictable experience. Being crossfaded can result in heightened feelings of euphoria or dizziness, but it also brings about a significant impairment of motor coordination, judgment, and reaction times. The individual may find it difficult to think clearly or make good decisions, increasing the risks of accidents or other negative consequences. The combination of these substances can also amplify anxiety or cause feelings of paranoia in some individuals.

• What alcohol is best to infuse with cannabis?

  When infusing cannabis with alcohol, it's generally best to choose a type of alcohol with a high proof, as alcohol acts as a solvent that helps extract the cannabinoids and terpenes from the cannabis. Common alcohol choices for infusion include vodka, rum, tequila, and whiskey. Vodka is particularly popular because of its neutral flavor, which makes it a versatile base for cannabis tinctures and extracts. Rum, with its slightly sweet taste, complements the herbal notes of cannabis, while tequila adds a distinctive flavor that pairs well with cannabis for unique infusions. Whiskey, known for its bold, smoky flavors, also blends well with cannabis, especially for those looking for a more robust infusion. It’s important to use these alcohols cautiously, as infusions can be potent and increase the risk of excessive intoxication if consumed in large quantities.

• What are the dangers of smoking and alcohol?

  The dangers of smoking cannabis and drinking alcohol together are significant, as both substances can depress the central nervous system, leading to increased impairment. The combination of alcohol and cannabis can lead to heightened intoxication, resulting in severe motor impairment, poor decision-making, and a greater risk of accidents or injuries. The coordination and cognitive function typically impacted by alcohol are further diminished by cannabis, making tasks like driving or operating machinery especially dangerous. Additionally, smoking cannabis and drinking alcohol at the same time can cause physical discomfort, such as nausea and vomiting, and may lead to greater cognitive confusion or memory blackouts. Some individuals may experience anxiety, paranoia, or panic attacks due to the compounded effects of both substances. This combination can also increase the strain on the liver, which metabolizes both alcohol and cannabinoids, potentially leading to long-term health issues if consumed regularly.