Delta THC Seltzers vs. Alcohol: Which One Fits Your Lifestyle?

Alcohol has long been a staple of social gatherings and relaxation routines, but many people are now rethinking their relationship with it. Growing awareness of alcohol’s impact on health and well-being, combined with a rise in health-friendly cannabis drinks means that more people are exploring new ways to unwind and connect.

Enter Delta THC seltzers – a light and refreshing cannabis-infused beverage designed to deliver a smooth, enjoyable experience without the hangover. 

Are they a good alternative for unwinding and socializing? Let’s find out.

What Are Delta THC Seltzers and How Do They Work?

Delta THC seltzers are sparkling drinks infused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the uplifting compound in cannabis, and often cannabidiol (CBD), a non-intoxicating compound known for its calming effects. Both THC and CBD occur naturally in the cannabis plant in various quantities depending on the strain.

Our bodies contain cannabinoid receptors (CB1 and CB2) which are naturally susceptible to THC. This forms part of the endocannabinoid system¹ which regulates a number of mental and physical processes in the body such as mood, emotion, appetite, digestion, sleep, immune system function, stress response, and more.

THC is emulsified and infused into the beverage ensuring that every sip you take is a controlled and precise dosage. Whether you opt for a low or high dose, cannabis drinks offer predictable and easy-to-manage effects making them a great option for anyone from a seasoned canna-connoisseur to the canna-curious.

Similar to alcohol, THC-infused drinks promote relaxation and sociability but without the downsides of dehydration and hangovers. 

For those accustomed to winding down with a drink after a long day, Delta seltzers offer a simple transition. Their measured dosages allow users to easily control their experience, just like pouring a glass of wine or cracking open a beer.

Alcohol vs. THC: Key Differences in How They Affect Your Body

For us at Drink, an important part of responsible consumption (of anything) is understanding the facts and being informed about what we put into our bodies and the effect it can have. All of our drinks are third-party batch tested to ensure purity and consistency which enables us to stand behind our claims that are driven by rigorous research. 

We’re also not ones to stigmatize anybody for their choice of beverage – our intention is simply to educate. With that in mind, here is what current research says about THC beverages vs alcohol.

Impact on the brain

While alcohol initially creates feelings of euphoria, it is a depressant² that can contribute to anxiety, mood swings, and impaired cognitive function over time. Low-THC delta seltzers on the other hand, interact with the endocannabinoid system, potentially promoting relaxation, reducing stress³, and easing social anxiety⁴.

Calorie count

For those who want to enjoy a social buzz without the excess calories in alcohol⁵, low-calorie THC drinks offer a refreshing alternative to beer, cocktails, and sugary mixed drinks. Many THC seltzers are crafted with minimal to no calories, little to no sugar, and often natural ingredients, making them an ideal choice for health-conscious consumers. They enable you to savor the moment without compromising on wellness or health and dietary goals.

Sleep quality

People commonly drink alcohol to help them fall asleep more easily. Approximately 50% of heavy drinkers⁶ report problems with their sleep and 50-60% of people⁷ with Alcohol Use Disorder⁸ report regularly using alcohol to help with sleep. Unfortunately, while it may initially make you drowsy, alcohol disrupts sleep architecture⁹, can lead to reduced REM sleep, and an overall reduction in sleep quality. In low doses and particularly when combined with CBD, THC has shown potential in promoting relaxation and can help improve sleep quality¹⁰ for people with chronic pain, PTSD, and restless leg syndrome.  

This explains why many people are turning to THC beverages in the evening, as a way to mentally unwind and ease into a restful night’s sleep without the groggy sensations in the morning. 

Social and Lifestyle Benefits of THC Seltzers

Delta THC seltzers are defining the modern alternative for socializing. They offer a refreshing alternative to traditional alcohol with the relaxing and socially stimulating effects but none of the drawbacks. 

Much like alcohol, THC beverages come in a range of strengths, allowing individuals to tailor their experience to their personal preferences. The effects are dose-dependent, meaning you can sip gradually and gauge how you feel before deciding whether to drink more. 

A low-dose 5mg THC drink like Delta Light provides a mild, uplifting effect, ideal for those new to cannabis and looking for a subtle enhancement. They are also a great option as a sessionable drink for people who are familiar with the effects of cannabis. There are also stronger 20mg options (such as Delta Cannabis Water) that deliver a deeper, more immersive experience, typically suited to seasoned cannabis users. 

One of the biggest misconceptions about cannabis-infused beverages is that they lead to overwhelming sensations. In reality, THC seltzers are designed with precise dosing in mind, ensuring a controlled and manageable experience through nanoemulsion technology. Unlike traditional cannabis consumption methods, like edibles which can be unpredictable in onset and intensity, THC drinks offer a steady and more predictable effect with faster onset times making it easier to find your balance. 

As more people embrace mindful consumption¹¹ and prioritize their health, THC seltzers align seamlessly with wellness-oriented lifestyles. They cater to people seeking natural refreshment options and alternative forms of relaxation without the potential for long-term health effects¹². 

Tips for Trying THC Seltzers for the First Time

Here are three simple things to keep in mind when trying Delta THC seltzers for the first time:

1. Start low to gauge tolerance

If you’re new to cannabis or even just new to cannabis drinks, we suggest starting with a low-dose THC drink like Delta Light. These contain 5mg THC and 1mg of CBD per can. You can begin with just half a can poured over ice and see how you feel after half an hour. This is the time it usually takes to feel the effects. You can always increase the dose sip by sip until you find your desired level. 

2. Eat well and hydrate properly

Just like with alcohol, consuming a THC seltzer or cannabis drink is best done with a full stomach. Staying hydrated is also important. While our Cannabis Waters may have “water” in the name and our Delta Light seltzers are refreshing, we suggest keeping a bottle of mineral water handy.

3. Choose a comfortable setting

The most important thing is to feel relaxed and comfortable. The people around you and the location can play a big part in this so we advise choosing something familiar for your first time. To avoid any unpleasant effects, we recommend not mixing THC drinks with alcohol or other substances and always consume responsibly.

Are THC Seltzers the Right Choice for You?

Realistically, there doesn’t need to be a great debate of THC vs alcohol. It is a personal choice and people’s decision to switch or try something new are based on several factors including tolerance, individual preferences, and legal considerations based on location. 

THC seltzers are an exciting and refreshing alternative to alcohol with enhanced sensations of wellbeing and enjoyment – all without the negative effects associated with traditional drinking. Whether you’re looking to cut back on alcohol or simply exploring new ways to unwind, cannabis-infused drinks are a mindful and delicious choice to consider.