Many recreational marijuana users turn to weed for an intoxicating hit that either enhances relaxation or promotes a euphoric feeling. Consuming alcohol can also help take the edge off, particularly in social settings. When you mix cannabis and alcohol, will you experience these positive effects, or can your planned night of fun take a more serious turn?
Discover everything you need to know in this helpful guide.
Exploring Three Common Risks and Health Effects of Mixing Weed and Alcohol
What could be the harm of consuming alcohol as well as marijuana? This action, also known as cross-fading, can have some positive effects on users. Small research studies indicate that smoking weed after drinking could help lower one’s blood alcohol level and that cannabis use before drinking reduces the risk of binge drinking.
However, you should be aware of all potential side effects of cross-fading, including some negative reactions. Check out these common risks that come with combining alcohol and cannabis use.
1. Impaired Judgment
THC absorption and alcohol consumption each have distinct effects on the brain. Combining the two can enhance cognitive impairment and lead to the following:
- Difficulty concentrating
- Poor short-term memory
- Willingness to participate in risky behavior
If you mix cannabis and alcohol, consider how these substances will affect your judgment. Practice safe cross-fading by staying in a familiar setting and avoiding driving.
2. Unwanted Physical Side Effects
You may participate in cross-fading, hoping to experience heightened psychoactive effects. However, some users face unpleasant symptoms like:
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Nausea
- Sweating
- Increased anxiety
Consider how your body reacts to each substance. If you often feel dizzy after drinking or anxious due to smoking weed, cross-fading may enhance these effects.
3. Dependence or Substance Use Disorders
Say you enjoy a euphoric high whenever you mix cannabis and alcohol. There’s always a risk that you’ll develop substance use disorder to keep chasing that high. Be mindful of how often you drink and smoke, and recognize the signs of dependence.
Practice These Harm Reduction Tips Before Cross-fading
Are you looking to enjoy both marijuana and alcohol on occasion? Make sure you do so responsibly. Keep the following tips in mind for a safe cross-fading experience:
- Start off slow: Based on average alcohol metabolism rates, it can take your body an hour to break down booze. Wait an hour after your first drink to smoke or ingest pot to separate the effects of each substance.
- Drink water: Avoid dehydration and its health consequences. Drink plenty of water to safeguard your body from the dehydrating effects of weed and liquor.
- Have a meal: If you want to avoid feeling intoxicated too quickly, make sure you have something to eat before drinking. Having food in your system slows the absorption of each drink, so you don’t have to consume as much.
- Use cannabis first: Experts find that once THC enters your system, it may reduce the amount of booze you drink and prevent serious intoxication.
If you follow these tips and still find yourself having a negative experience, it’s wise to stop cross-fading and enjoy each substance separately.
Discover Cannabis Products for Any Purpose
If you choose to mix cannabis and alcohol, make sure you do so responsibly and consider the risks that come with it. Remember that the type of cannabis you consume may influence the cross-fading experience. Explore your options with the help of Cannabis & Glass.
We’re a premier dispensary in Ontario, Oregon, offering products from accessories to edibles and flower varieties. Visit our shop, browse our selection online, or give us a call at (541) 907-1234 to get started.
