Snowstorms, cannabis and some interesting tidbits examining cold weather, cannabis versus alcohol, and unexpected winter facts.
Much of the country is in the grip of a serious cold weather storm, the kind rattling windows, shutting down highways, and sending people searching for extra blankets and something warm to take the edge off. When temperatures plunge well below normal, daily routines change quickly. People stay indoors, move less, eat differently, and often rethink what they drink or consume to get through the freeze. Their is renewed curiosity around marijuana in cold weather, especially how it compares to alcohol and whether it can actually help you feel warmer. Â Read on for snowstorms, cannabis and some interesting tidbits.
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One of the biggest myths of winter is alcohol keeps you warm. While a stiff drink can create a temporary sensation of heat, it actually causes blood vessels near the skin to dilate. That pulls warmth away from your core and increases heat loss, which can be dangerous in extreme cold. Cannabis works differently. THC does not raise body temperature, but it can change how the body perceives cold by altering sensory signals and relaxing muscles to keep them from tensing up in low temperatures. Many people report feeling more comfortable, calmer, and less aware of the chill after using cannabis, without the same physiological risks associated with alcohol in freezing conditions.
Certain forms of cannabis may be better suited for winter storms than others. Edibles and tinctures provide longer-lasting effects, which can be appealing during long nights indoors. Flower and vape products act faster, which some people prefer when coming in from the cold. Strains promoting body relaxation and mild euphoria are often favored during cold snaps, while overly stimulating varieties may feel less cozy when you are trying to stay warm and settled.
Cold weather itself brings some interesting and well-documented side effects. For one, the body tends to burn more calories when temperatures drop. Staying warm requires energy, and mild cold exposure can slightly increase calorie expenditure as the body works to maintain its core temperature. That does not mean winter weather is a weight loss plan, but it does explain why people often feel hungrier during cold spells.
There is also a long-standing statistical trend showing more babies are born about nine months after major winter storms and prolonged cold periods. When people are snowed in, travel is limited, and social calendars clear, time spent at home increases. Historically, this has translated into noticeable baby booms following harsh winters.
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Another cold weather tidbit is how it affects sleep and mood. Shorter days and less sunlight can disrupt circadian rhythms, contributing to winter blues. Cannabis, particularly products  supporting relaxation and sleep, is sometimes used by adults to help unwind during long, dark evenings. Again, moderation matters, especially when cold weather already encourages inactivity.
As the country rides out this intense cold weather storm, it is clear winter changes more than just the thermostat. It influences what people consume, how they cope, and even what shows up in the data months later. Cannabis is increasingly part of the seasonal conversation, offering a different option than alcohol for those looking to feel a little more comfortable while waiting for warmer days to return.
