Let’s face it: there are a lot of us out there who smoke cannabis (at least) once a week. Whether you’re a nightly smoker or like it after the hard days of work, if you’re worried about a drug test, you’re likely asking yourself, if I smoke once a week, how long until I’m clean?
You’re not the only one wondering this question, and we’re here to answer it. So, let’s talk about it: if you’re a weekly smoker, how long will it take to get clean?
Understanding THC in the Body
Before we talk about how long it’ll take to get clean, let’s first discuss how THC works in the body. This will help give you a better understanding of why it takes longer for it to dissipate the more frequently you smoke.
When you smoke cannabis, THC enters your bloodstream and interacts with the brain’s cannabinoid receptors, creating the psychoactive effects you experience.
For occasional smokers, THC metabolizes differently than in frequent users. Since you’re only smoking once a week, the body doesn’t have a constant flow of THC to process, which means it takes longer for your system to fully clear it.
Once THC enters your system, your liver breaks it down into metabolites, primarily THC-COOH — this is what drug tests look for.
Occasional smokers tend to have lower levels of THC-COOH in their bodies, but that doesn’t mean it leaves immediately. These metabolites bind to fat cells, and depending on your body composition and metabolism, they can remain in your system for several days or even weeks.
Factors that Affect THC Detection Time
There are several factors that are going to affect how long the THC lingers in your body. Those factors include the following:
- Frequency of Use: More frequent use leads to longer detection times. Occasional smokers (once a week) clear THC faster than daily users.
- Body Fat and Metabolism: Higher body fat means THC binds to fat cells for longer periods, slowing its release. A faster metabolism helps clear THC more quickly.
- Hydration and Diet: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet may help flush THC out of the body faster, though results vary from person to person.
- Physical Activity Levels: Regular exercise, especially cardio, can speed up THC clearance by burning fat and boosting metabolism.
If I Smoke Once a Week, How Long Until I’m Clean?
For those who smoke cannabis once a week, the length of time THC stays in the system varies depending on the type of drug test.
In blood and saliva tests, THC is typically detectable for about 1 to 3 days after use.
These tests focus on recent consumption and are less likely to show positive results after a few days.
Urine tests, however, can detect THC for a longer period, generally between 7 to 10 days for occasional smokers. Urine testing looks for THC metabolites, which stay in the body longer than THC itself.
Lastly, hair follicle tests have the longest detection window, with THC traceable for up to 90 days after consumption. This is because hair retains a history of drug use, making it possible to detect substances long after they’ve left the bloodstream.
Each method varies, so understanding which test you’ll face is important for estimating when your body will be THC-free.
Tips for Reducing THC Detection Time
While there isn’t a super-quick solution to clearing your body of cannabinoids, there are some great ways to reduce overall THC detection time.
Here are some things you can do if you’re in a pinch and want to get rid of the THC in your system:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water helps flush out THC metabolites more quickly, though it won’t drastically speed up the process.
- Exercise Regularly: Engaging in cardio and fat-burning exercises can help reduce THC levels in the body by increasing metabolism and burning stored fat where THC metabolites are stored.
- Maintain a Healthy Diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in fiber, fruits, and vegetables can support your body’s detoxification process and speed up the elimination of THC.
- Try Natural Detox Methods: Some individuals use natural detox remedies, such as herbal teas or supplements, to help clear THC from the system. Results vary, so it’s important to use safe, reputable products.
- Consider a Detox Kit: Commercial detox kits are designed to cleanse the body quickly, though results can be inconsistent. Make sure to research any product thoroughly before use.
Keep in mind that non-psychoactive cannabinoids like CBD will not show up on a drug test, so you may want to stick to these products in the meantime.
Experience Reassurance With an MMJ Card
If you’re worried about drug tests, having a medical marijuana card may ease those anxieties. In many states, having an MMJ card grants you employee protection in case you fail a drug test for marijuana. You can also check out our blog on jobs that don’t drug test.
At Elevate Holistics, we can help you get your medical marijuana card online in minutes, giving you the ultimate reassurance. Then, whether you’re a daily, weekly, or monthly smoker, you won’t have to worry.
Click the button below to get started and experience the relief — both mentally and physically — that comes with medical marijuana cards.
