The Truth About THC Drinks: Are They Bad for You?

Unsurprisingly almost all of what we talk about in this blog are the benefits of THC drinks and how you can incorporate them into your social life, wellness habits, or simply as an alternative to alcohol for your mindful self-care moments. 

However we also always try to maintain a strictly factual approach to everything we discuss, consistently citing contemporary research and new developments in the ever growing field of cannabis research. 

Hopefully we keep it fun and interesting too!

So in this article we want to discuss some of the potential downsides of THC consumption—more specifically, overconsumption. Because like anything in life, it’s all about balance.

Understanding THC Drinks: What Are They?

THC drinks are exactly what they sound like—beverages infused with THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) which is the “active” compound in cannabis. They come in many forms including sparkling seltzers, cannabis-infused water, mocktails, and even teas and tonics. 

Unlike conventional consumption methods like smoking or vaping, where THC is absorbed through the lungs, THC seltzers are different.

They are created using a process called nanoemulsification which breaks down the THC into tiny molecules that evenly distribute throughout the liquid. This enables the THC to be absorbed sublingually (under the tongue) or through the lining of the stomach and small intestine, rather than needing to be broken down by digestive enzymes like a typical edible.

How THC Drinks Differ From Other Cannabis Consumption Methods

THC drinks offer one of the quickest and most manageable ways to enjoy cannabis. Unlike traditional edibles—which take 1–2 hours to kick in due to digestion and conversion into the more potent 11-hydroxy-THC—THC beverages take effect in about 10–15 minutes, thanks to improved absorption technologies. The experience is smoother, more predictable, and easier to control.

Compared to smoking or vaping, which can hit hard and vary based on how you inhale (plus the downside of lung irritation), THC drinks offer a gentler, more approachable high. You can sip slowly, feel the effects build gradually, and stop when it feels right—making it much easier to avoid overdoing it.

They’re also one of the most consistent cannabis products on the market, ideal for beginners or anyone seeking a more measured experience. And because they come in a familiar, drinkable format, they fit right into social settings. Just be ready to share.

Are THC Drinks Harmful?

This is where we separate myth from reality. Even now in 2025 there’s a lingering stigma around cannabis, shaped by outdated information or worst-case scenarios. Let’s clear things up:

Myth: THC drinks are dangerous or addictive

Just like caffeine, alcohol, or even sugar, THC can be misused, but it is not inherently harmful when consumed in moderation and particularly at lower doses. According to DSM-5¹, only 9% of those exposed to cannabis develop a use disorder, compared with 23% for alcohol and 68% for nicotine. Using cannabis in low quantities² is also less likely to lead to Cannabis Use Disorder (CUD) compared to heavy or frequent use.

The advantage of THC drinks is precise dosing and dosage options. Each can should state the correct quantity of THC and other cannabinoids allowing consumers to select a dose that is appropriate for their experience level and desired effects. Anything from a “microdose” 5mg THC seltzer, all the way up to a more potent 20mg THC seltzer—normally reserved for canna connoisseurs. Even then, there is nothing to say you can’t consume half a can and save the rest for later. 

Myth: You never know how much you’re really getting.

The reality is that regulated and certifiably tested products will clearly label their THC content—often in 5mg, 10mg, or 20mg servings. The key is choosing a trusted brand, like Delta, that consistently batch tests products using third party labs. 

An easy way to determine whether a particular THC beverage brand is legitimate is by looking for COAs (Certificate of Analysis) on their website. If you cannot find them, or a producer does not clearly state the levels of THC and other cannabinoids (normally CBD) on their drink cans—it’s best to look elsewhere. 

The truth is, the biggest risk with THC drinks is overconsumption, particularly for new users or those with a low tolerance. This can lead to temporary side effects like dizziness, anxiety, or a feeling of being “too high.” But these effects are typically short-lived and not dangerous in the long term.

Even when the effects linger longer than expected, it rarely results in any harm. Only about 0.03%³ of reported “cannabis-related” fatalities over a 22-year period in England were attributed solely to cannabis toxicity—so there is no need to worry.

And if you do find yourself tipping into discomfort, fear not—we have a great guide on how to sober up from THC.

Potential Side Effects and How to Avoid Them

We’re not going to hide the truth—yes, side effects are possible when you consume THC beverages, particularly for the first time. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Dry mouth
• Mild anxiety or paranoia
• Drowsiness or fatigue
• Increased heart rate
• Munchies 

These effects commonly occur with higher doses and can be exacerbated by drinking quickly on an empty stomach—similarly to alcohol. However they can be easily avoided if you follow these simple steps:

• Start with a low dose of 2.5–5mg THC (either a half or full can of 5mg THC seltzer)
• Wait 30–60 minutes before having more
• Avoid mixing with alcohol or other substances
• Stay hydrated and fed

Mindful consumption goes a long way in allowing you to enjoy the benefits and preventing unwanted sensations.

The Health Benefits of THC Drinks

Now to the good stuff. THC drinks, when used intentionally, can support a variety of wellness goals:

Stress relief and relaxation – Low-dose THC can help to reduce stress⁴ and promote better sleep⁵ making THC drinks an ideal solution for winding down at the end of the day without a sluggish sensation in the morning.  

Creativity and social ease – Low dose THC has been linked with reducing social anxiety⁶ and in drink format it is ideal for gatherings or moments when you want to loosen up, but still feel present.

Mindful alternatives to alcohol – Whether it’s Dry January or going Cali-sober, THC drinks offer an increasingly popular⁷ way to unwind and say cheers without the alcohol, sugar, calories, and next-day regrets.

For many, THC drinks don’t just feel good—they do good, especially when they replace coping tools like alcohol or excessive screen time.

Tolerance Breaks: Resetting Your Relationship with THC

If you're a regular or longtime cannabis consumer, chances are you’ve experienced it: your go-to dose doesn’t quite hit the same anymore. That’s your body developing a tolerance⁸. It’s a completely normal biological response—but it can also quietly diminish the benefits you originally loved about THC in the first place.

That’s where a T-break, or tolerance break, comes in.

Taking a short break from cannabis gives your endocannabinoid system a chance to recalibrate. Even a few days off can noticeably reset your tolerance, while longer breaks—such as a week or two—can help restore the sensitivity of your cannabinoid receptors (especially CB1), allowing you to feel more with less.

Some potential benefits of a well-timed T-break include:

• Lower tolerance = better effects with smaller doses
  Your favorite 5mg THC seltzer might feel like it used to—relaxing, uplifting, and creatively inspiring—without needing to up your intake.
  
  
• Improved clarity and balance
  A break can help reduce any lingering mental fog or sluggishness that sometimes creeps in with long-term, daily consumption.
  
  
• Better sleep and mood regulation
  Although cannabis can support sleep, heavy daily use can disrupt natural sleep cycles⁹ over time. A reset may restore your body's baseline rhythms.
  
  
• More intentional consumption
  Stepping away gives you space to reflect: Are you using THC for fun? For focus? To wind down? When you return, you’ll likely have a more mindful and intentional approach.
  

T-breaks aren’t about restriction or shame—they’re about recalibrating, enhancing your experience, and keeping cannabis a positive, effective part of your lifestyle. Like any wellness tool, it works best when it’s used with intention, not out of habit.

Safe Consumption: How to Enjoy THC Drinks Responsibly

This article isn’t designed to put you off consuming THC—that’s the last thing we want! Instead it is designed to explain the boundaries and inform you of the facts to encourage constructive decision-making.

Mindful moderation is really the key to enjoying life. 

Too much of a good thing and it loses its meaning, potency, and effectiveness. And before you know it, you have a negative habit rather than something that used to bring you joy and positivity. 

“Start low and go slow” is great for people new to cannabis. But equally, for people who have been consuming most of their lives, taking intermittent breaks can help you rediscover your relationship with THC and get the most potential benefit from it.