Exploring the Benefits and Side Effects of a Cannabis Tolerance Break

A Cannabis tolerance break, or T-break is a deliberate period of abstinence from Cannabis. In this article we explore the benefits and potential side effects of taking a Cannabis Tolerance break.

23 August 2023 By Malini Sietaram

TL;DR

Your body can become accustomed to the effects of Cannabis.
A Cannabis tolerance break, or T-Break, is a deliberate period of abstinence from Cannabis, ranging from 48hrs to a couple of weeks.
A Cannabis tolerance break can increase sensitivity to cannabinoids and reduce risks of overconsumption
It should be based on your preferences, health considerations, and personal goals. It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before changing your Cannabis consumption habits.
A T-break can very much feel like quitting caffeine.
Be kind to yourself; self-care and mindful consumption are key to maintaining a healthy relationship with Cannabis.

What is Cannabis Tolerance?

Cannabis is a complex plant that contains cannabinoids, the most well-known being tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) and cannabidiol (CBD). These cannabinoids interact with specific receptors in the brain and the body's endocannabinoid system. THC binds to the cannabinoid receptors in your brain and body, leading to the psychoactive effects associated with feeling "high" or experiencing changes in mood, perception, and cognition.

Tolerance refers to the body's ability to adapt to the effects of THC. Over time, the body becomes more efficient at processing and eliminating THC, leading to a diminished response. This happens through receptor downregulation, where the brain's cannabinoid receptors become less sensitive to THC, resulting in needing to consume more to achieve the same level of desired effects. Additionally, your body may undergo metabolic adaptation, increasing the rate at which it breaks down THC. This can result in the compound being cleared from your system more quickly, reducing its overall impact.

What is a tolerance break?

As your body becomes accustomed to the effects of Cannabis, you might find that you need higher doses to achieve the same desired outcome. This is where a "Cannabis tolerance break" or a "T-break" comes into play – a deliberate period of abstinence from Cannabis use that can offer several benefits for your physical and mental well-being.

A Cannabis tolerance break is a period of abstinence from cannabis use that allows your body to reverse the above adaptive changes. During this break, your cannabinoid receptors can upregulate, becoming more sensitive again. The brain can reset its responses to THC, and the rate of metabolism may return to its baseline. As a result, when you eventually resume your Cannabis intake, you may find that lower doses produce more pronounced effects.

Factors that could influence your tolerance

Genetics.
Metabolism.
Overall health.
Frequency of use.
Dosage.
Method of consumption.

Do you need a tolerance break from CBD?

CBD doesn't tend to create the same tolerance level as THC, and if you only use CBD, you will probably not need a tolerance break to reset desensitisation.

The Benefits of a Cannabis Tolerance Break

1. Enhanced Sensitivity to Cannabinoids. Research indicates that taking a break from Cannabis can reset your body's tolerance to cannabinoids. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Psychopharmacology (2018) found that a period of abstinence led to increased sensitivity to the effects of THC, suggesting that even a short break can restore the effectiveness of lower doses.

2. Reduced Risk of Overconsumption. During a tolerance break, your body's tolerance to Cannabis decreases. This means that after the break, you can experience the desired effects with a lower dose, reducing the risk of overconsumption.

3. Financial Savings. Regular Cannabis use can be costly, unfortunately. Taking a tolerance break can not only help your body reset but also provide a chance to save money that might have been spent on higher doses.

4. Clarity and Mental Focus. Cannabis might influence cognitive function, and a tolerance break can help you experience improved mental clarity and focus.

5. Renewed Enjoyment. After a break, you may find that smaller doses provide more satisfying effects, making the overall experience more enjoyable.

6. Personal Reflection. A tolerance break provides an opportunity for self-reflection and mindfulness. It allows you to assess your relationship with Cannabis, its impact on your life, and whether any adjustments are needed.

How long should a T-break be?

The ideal duration of a tolerance break is highly personal. Some people might benefit from a short 24-48 hrs break, while others might choose a more extended break of several weeks. The goal is to give your body enough time to reset its sensitivity to cannabinoids. The frequency, amount of Cannabis consumed, individual metabolism and personal goals can influence the duration of your tolerance break. It's always a good idea to discuss with your doctor how long your T-break should be.

Tips for your Tolerance Break

Start your tolerance break when you don't have a lot of work or social commitments.
Be kind to yourself. Recognise that emotional fluctuations are expected, and allow yourself some grace during this period.
Set smaller, achievable goals and be empathetic towards yourself that you might not be as productive as usual.
Engaging in stress-relief techniques, such as deep breathing exercises, meditation or yoga.
Stay hydrated
Stay active with some gentle exercise.
Find healthier alternatives to satisfy your cravings.
Do things that bring you joy and provide a sense of fulfilment.
Plan a doona day, now might be a great time to binge your favourite show.
Tell a supportive friend or family member about your t-break so they can help you stay accountable and motivated during this challenging period.

Conclusion

A Cannabis tolerance break can offer a range of benefits, from increased sensitivity to cannabinoids to reduced risks of overconsumption and improved mental clarity. Scientific research supports the idea that taking a break from Cannabis can lead to positive physiological and psychological changes. However, a tolerance break should be based on individual preferences, health considerations, and personal goals.

It's important to consult with a healthcare professional before changing your Cannabis consumption habits.

Remember, everyone's response to Cannabis is unique, and understanding how tolerance develops can help you make informed decisions about your Cannabis usage. Be kind to yourself; self-care and mindful consumption are key to maintaining a healthy relationship with Cannabis.