Hemp seeds contain high amounts of protein, vitamins, minerals and healthy fats. They are high in the omega-3 fatty acid ALA, which supports heart health, and also contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which may reduce symptoms of premenstrual syndrome such as breast tenderness and water retention.
Hemp seeds are a source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which helps to relieve constipation. They are also rich in magnesium and thiamin.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of omega-3 essential fatty acids. In fact, just one ounce of hemp seeds contains 2.5 grams of omega-3 fatty acids. Hemp seed oil is also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. A tablespoon of hemp seed oil provides the body with the recommended daily amount of omega-3 fatty acids. The omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seeds have been shown to improve skin health and reduce acne symptoms, according to a 2018 study. Hemp seed fatty acids may also reduce the symptoms of atopic dermatitis, or eczema, by decreasing inflammation in the skin.
Modern diets provide massive amounts of omega-6 fatty acids and very little omega-3, which can result in a number of health problems. Hemp seed is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and can help balance the ratio of these fats in the body. The body cannot synthesize omega-3 fatty acids, so it is important to get them through the diet. Hemp seeds contain the omega-3 fatty acid linolenic acid, or ALA, which the body can transform into two long-chain omega-3 fatty acids, EPA and DHA. It also contains gamma linolenic acid, or GLA, and stearidonic acid, or SDA.
The omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seeds are important for heart health, as well. Studies suggest that consuming omega-3 fatty acids can reduce high blood pressure and decrease the risk of coronary heart disease. The omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seed can also reduce LDL cholesterol, raise HDL cholesterol and improve triglycerides.
A high intake of omega-3 fatty acids can also benefit people with diabetes. Studies suggest that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids can help reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes, by improving insulin sensitivity.
In addition to being an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, hemp seeds are also a good source of protein. In fact, just three tablespoons of hemp seeds contains 9.46 grams of protein. This makes hemp seeds an excellent choice for those who want to increase their protein intake without increasing the amount of meat or dairy in their diets. In addition, hemp seeds are a good source of fiber, with one tablespoon of the seeds providing approximately 1.2 grams of fiber.
Fiber
Hemp seeds are a good source of dietary fiber. They contain soluble and insoluble fiber, which can help with digestive health. This fiber can help you feel full longer, suppress the production of ghrelin and control your appetite. It can also prevent constipation and encourage the growth of healthy bacteria in your colon.
In addition, consuming hemp seeds can help reduce your risk of heart disease. They contain a healthy balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as the amino acid arginine. This amino acid can turn into nitric oxide in the body, which helps your blood vessels to dilate and relax. This can lower your blood pressure, which can further decrease the risk of heart disease.
You can find hemp seeds in a variety of foods, including protein shakes, oatmeal and salad dressing. They have a light, nutty flavor and can add texture to many dishes. You can also find them in the nut and seed section of most grocery stores.
There are few reported side effects associated with hemp seeds, although you should always consume them in moderation. They can cause digestive discomfort, such as bloating and gas, in some people, so it is important to drink plenty of water with them. In addition, they may interfere with anticoagulant medications by inhibiting blood platelets, so you should talk to your doctor before adding them to your diet if you are taking these medications.
The high level of protein in hemp seeds can benefit muscle health. It can also boost your immune system and protect against the development of cancer cells. Hemp seeds can be a great addition to a vegan or vegetarian diet because they provide all the essential amino acids your body needs.
Hemp seeds are often referred to as hemp hearts and can be found in the nut and seed aisles of most grocery stores. They are also available in powder form, making it easy to sprinkle them on your favorite dish or snack. Alternatively, you can purchase them online. Hemp hearts are dehulled and therefore have more protein and digestible fiber than whole seeds and seed meal (milled seed after oil extraction). The nutritional information on the label will usually report both neutral detergent fibre (NDF) and acid detergent fibre (ADF), which includes cellulose, hemicellulose and lignin.
Hormone Levels
Hemp seeds (Cannabis Sativa) are packed with easily digested protein, essential fats, gamma linolenic acid, vitamins and minerals. The seeds are also a good source of dietary fiber, iron, zinc, carotene, phospholipids and antioxidants. Hemp seeds contain all of the 20 amino acids that the body needs, including the 9 essential ones. This makes them a "complete" protein. Hemp seed also contains fatty acids like Omega 3 and 6, which are known to promote cardiovascular health. The omega fatty acids in hemp seeds may help to lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol and triglycerides, which can prevent heart disease. Hemp seeds are also high in arginine, an amino acid that converts to nitric oxide and helps maintain blood vessel flexibility.
Hemp seed can help balance hormone levels, especially in women. One study found that hemp seed extract relieved PMS symptoms in premenopausal women. Hemp seeds may work by interacting with the endocannabinoid system, which regulates mood and other bodily functions.
The phenols in hemp seeds are also believed to have beneficial effects on the heart and may even help prevent cancer. Hemp seeds have a healthy 3:1 ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids, which can improve the lipid profile of the blood, reduce triglycerides and lower cholesterol. The omega fatty acids in hemp seeds also help to increase HDL cholesterol and decrease LDLR cholesterol, which can help prevent atherosclerosis.
Hemp seeds are a safe and nutritious addition to most diets. However, people taking anticoagulant medications should be cautious about eating hemp seeds because they are rich in vitamin K and may interfere with their effectiveness. In general, there are no side effects from consuming hemp seeds, but if you are taking any other medications or have any questions about a possible interaction, check with your doctor before adding them to your diet. You can eat hemp seeds raw, in smoothies or as part of a snack. They can also be used to make nut butter, milk or protein powder. They can be purchased at most grocery stores or natural food shops. Hemp hearts are also available online.
Antioxidants
Hemp seeds contain a powerful combination of healthy fats and essential amino acids. These nutrients may be able to help lower high blood pressure by improving your body's ability to relax the muscles of your arteries and veins. The omega-3 fatty acid in hemp seeds (alpha-linolenic acid) converts to the amino acid arginine, which helps form nitric oxide in your body. Nitric oxide can help blood vessels dilate and reduce blood pressure.
Hemp seed contains several antioxidants that fight free radical damage to cells and tissues, and help your body detoxify and cleanse itself. The phenolic compounds in hemp seed may also be helpful in treating some skin conditions, such as psoriasis and eczema.
In addition to their high protein content, hemp seeds are a good source of potassium (26% of your daily value) and dietary fiber (14% of your daily value). Potassium is important for keeping your heartbeat in balance and helping muscles and nerves function properly. Fiber relieves constipation and promotes gut health.
Like flaxseed, hemp seeds are rich in polyunsaturated fats, including omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. However, they have a milder nutty flavor and are easier to digest than flaxseeds. They're great in smoothies, salad dressings and granola.
Hemp seeds are a complete source of protein, which means that they contain all nine of the essential amino acids. Your body cannot produce these amino acids, so it's important to eat foods that are rich in them. Hemp seeds are one of a few plant sources of complete protein, making them an excellent source for vegetarians and vegans.
The omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seeds are also known to decrease inflammation and protect against cardiovascular disease. Hemp seeds also have a healthy ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, which is considered ideal for optimal health.
Hemp seeds contain the hormone-balancing gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA produces prostaglandins, which may help reduce the symptoms of premenstrual syndrome, including breast tenderness and irritability. GLA can also relieve symptoms of menopause, such as anxiety and bloating.
