Six Surprising Benefits of Hemp Seeds

The hemp plant is used to make products such as clothing, rope, and insulation. What we are looking at today is the value of the actual seeds of the hemp plant. Hemp seeds come from the Cannabis sativa plant species; however, they do not contain cannabinoids like THC which contain psychoactive compounds or CBD. These seeds are considered a superfood due to their rich nutritional profile of healthy fats, fiber, and a complete source of protein. There are six surprising benefits of hemp seeds.

Hemp seeds:

Provide neuroprotection for your brain and nerve endings.

Hemp seeds contain GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), an omega-6 fatty acid that is anti-inflammatory. GLA can reduce symptoms of neuropathy, rheumatoid arthritis, allergies, acne, and eczema. The plant compounds in GLA are neuroprotective for the brain and nerve endings, and may be helpful for those suffering from Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s disease, and multiple sclerosis.

Reduce your risk for heart disease.

Hemp seeds contain high levels of arginine, an amino acid that turns into nitric oxide. Nitric oxide helps keep blood vessel walls elastic and smooth. In addition, high levels of C-Reactive Protein (CRP) are linked to heart disease, and increased levels of arginine are associated with decreased levels of CRP.  The healthy balance of omega-3 fatty acids (ALA, alpha-linolenic acids) to omega-6 fatty acids (GLA) contained in these seeds lowers the risk for heart disease by increasing good HDL cholesterol and reducing bad LDL cholesterol. Hemp seeds may also prevent varicose veins and increase libido.

Provide a complete source of protein and many nutrients.

It’s rare to find a food that provides all nine essential amino acids. Twenty-five percent of the calories from hemp seed come from plant-based protein. One tablespoon of flax proves 3-5 grams of fiber, 2-3 grams of healthy fats, and 3-5 grams of fiber. Add to this 1.4 milligrams of manganese, 150 milligrams of magnesium, 7.7 milligrams of vitamin E, 202 milligrams of phosphorous, and 2.5 milligrams of zinc.

Boost the immune system and fight cancer.

Due to their GLA and ALA fatty acids, hemp seeds naturally reduce inflammation and boost the immune system. These seeds also fight free radicals and reduce your risk for prostate, colon, and breast cancers.

Improves digestive health and the gut lining.

Hemp seeds are high in both soluble and insoluble fibers which helps to relieve constipation and offers plenty of fiber to feed the good bacteria in our gut. When considering that 70 to 80 percent of our immune cells are in our gut, feeding our gut properly with healthy fiber and probiotic foods is a key to a healthy digestive tract and gut lining.

May reduce symptoms of menopause and PMS.

GLA found in hemp seeds produces prostaglandin E1 which reduces the effects of prolactin (a hormone that sensitivity to causes symptoms of PMS). GLA may also regulate inflammation and hormone imbalances associated with menopause.

Hemp seeds can be mixed with yogurt and goji berries or sprinkled on top of cereal or desserts.

There are certain cautions with hemp seeds. The consumption of hemp seeds should be avoided when taking anticoagulants because they can lessen their effects on the body. Pregnant and nursing women should not eat hemp seeds due to insufficient, available research and data.

Chia seeds may have a bit more fiber, but hemp seeds have a more balanced nutritional profile.  Years ago, I’d never heard of hemp seeds. Now they are a daily staple. Hemp seeds can be used as a snack, but I generally add mine to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, and baked goods. Quite honestly, I was surprised by most of these six benefits of hemp seeds.

Did any of these benefits surprise you? How do you use these nutritional powerhouses?

For Your Health,

Ginny