The Health of Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds are the seeds of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. They are from the same species as cannabis (marijuana). Hemp seeds only contain trace amounts of THC, the compound that causes the drug-like effects of marijuana.
Hemp seeds are exceptionally nutritious and rich in healthy fats, protein and various minerals.
Here are some scientifically proven health benefits of hemp seeds.
Nutritious Hemp Seeds
Theoretically a nut, hemp seeds are very nutritious. with a mild, nutty flavor.
Hemp seeds are a great high-quality protein source. They contain over 30% fat and are rich in two healthy fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). They have a 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, which may benefit skin diseases and may provide relief from eczema and its uncomfortable symptoms.
Hemp seeds are also a great source of vitamin E and minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron and zinc.
Hemp seeds can be consumed raw, cooked or roasted. Hemp seed oil is also very healthy, and has been used as a food/medicine in China for at least 3,000 years.
Heart disease is said to be the number one killer worldwide and eating hemp seeds may reduce the risk of heart disease.
They contain high amounts of the amino acid arginine, which is used to produce nitric oxide in the body.
Nitric oxide is a gas molecule that makes the blood vessels dilate and relax, leading to lowered blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease.
Animal studies have shown that hemp seeds or hemp seed oil may reduce blood pressure, decrease the risk of blood clot formation and help the heart recover after a heart attack.
Hemp seeds contain significant amounts of the amino acids methionine and cysteine, as well as very high levels of arginine and glutamic acid.
The digestibility of hemp protein is also very good — better than protein from many grains, nuts and legumes .
Hemp Seeds May Reduce Symptoms of PMS and Menopause
Up to 80% of women of reproductive age may suffer from physical or emotional symptoms caused by premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms are very likely caused by sensitivity to the hormone prolactin.
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), found in hemp seeds, produces prostaglandin E1, which reduces the effects of prolactin. In a study of women taking one gram of essential fatty acids (including 210 mg of GLA) per day resulted in a considerable decrease in PMS symptoms.
Hemp seeds are high in GLA, several studies have indicated that hemp seeds may also help reduce the symptoms of menopause and it has been suggested that the GLA in hemp seeds may help to regulate the hormone imbalance and inflammation associated with menopause.
Hemp Seeds May Aid In Digestion
Fiber is an essential part of the diet and is linked with better digestive health. Whole hemp seeds are an excellent source of both soluble (20%) and insoluble (80%) fiber.
Soluble fiber forms a gel-like substance in the gut. It is an important source of nutrients for the beneficial digestive bacteria and may also diminish spikes in blood sugar. It also may regulate cholesterol levels.
Insoluble fiber adds bulk to fecal matter and may help food and waste pass. Consuming insoluble fiber has also been linked with a reduced risk of diabetes.
When de-hulled or shelled hemp seeds contain very little fiber, because the fiber-rich shell has been removed.
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