Cannabis Consumers Have Reduced Alcohol Intake

A recent poll found that over 65 percent of cannabis users have cut back or replaced alcohol consumption entirely.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Substance Abuse

Gouache-painted editorial illustration showing a glass carafe and a small bowl of herbs, representing shifting consumer wellness trends. — A recent survey suggests that more than 65 percent of cannabis users are reducing or replacing alcohol consumption as shifting substance-use trends gain momentum. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you believe replacing alcohol with cannabis is an effective way to improve your health?

A NuggMD poll of 1,005 consumers revealed that 65.8 percent of cannabis users have decreased or eliminated their alcohol consumption. The survey, conducted in late September 2026, highlights shifting substance use trends.

Why it matters

The findings were released to coincide with Sober October, highlighting a growing trend among individuals who are opting to substitute cannabis for alcohol in their social and lifestyle routines.

The survey of 1,005 cannabis consumers found that 31.5 percent completely replaced alcohol with cannabis, while another 34.3 percent reported decreasing their intake. The poll maintains a margin of error of +/- 3.09 percentage points.

The players

NuggMD

NuggMD is a medical cannabis technology company that provides access to evaluations and patient certifications.

The details

Participants were surveyed regarding their alcohol intake patterns relative to their cannabis use. The results align with previous research from August 2026, which indicated that 65 percent of THC beverage consumers drank less alcohol.

August 2026: Study on THC beverages and alcohol intake was published.
September 24-26, 2026: NuggMD survey interviews were conducted.
October 2026: Findings were released to mark the Sober October awareness period.

Health Landscape

This polling data reflects a broader shift in public health and consumer habits regarding alcohol substitution. The results follow established trends seen in previous surveys, extending the pattern of reduced alcohol intake among cannabis users.

The study suggests that many consumers are actively altering their substance use habits by choosing cannabis over alcoholic beverages. Readers should consider how these lifestyle changes might impact their personal wellness routines or medical health goals.

The takeaway

The data suggests a meaningful trend toward cannabis as a substitute for alcohol in social settings. Consumers may find that these findings assist in making informed decisions about their own substance use habits throughout the month of October.