Hemp seeds are nutrient-rich organic seeds. They form part of the hemp plant and since they are technically nuts you can consume them in raw form. Besides that, you can use them to make byproducts such as hemp seed oil, milk, protein powder, or cheese substitutes. But its versatility has made it one of the most popular sources of wellness supplements. So, what are the benefits of hemp seeds, and what makes them effective in promoting wellness?
Benefits of Hemp Seeds
These are nutrient-rich seeds that are known to provide the body with several health benefits. They can be used to regulate various processes in the body. Besides that, hemp seeds can prevent the development or widespread of certain conditions. The most common benefits of hemp seeds are:
Highly Nutritious
Hemp seeds are technically nuts hence they are highly nutritious. If you consume them, you will find that they have a mild nutty flavor. Well, these organic products contain more than 30% fat content. Their nutrition content is supported by the presence of two essential fatty acids – alpha-linolenic acid i.e., omega-3 and linoleic acid i.e., omega-6. Besides that, these seeds also have gamma-linolenic acid that has a wide range of health benefits.
Overall, hemp seeds are great sources of protein. It should be noted that more than 25% of its total calories are simply quality protein. Besides that, they are great sources of vitamins and minerals such as:
- Vitamin E
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Magnesium
- Iron
- Inc
- Sulfur
Note: You can consume the nutritious hemp seeds in raw, roasted, and cooked format.
Reducing the Risk of Heart Disease
Heart disease is one of the top causes of death worldwide. However, it has been established that consuming hemp seeds can help reduce your risk of contracting heart disease. The effectiveness of hemp seeds to reduce heart disease since it contains high amounts of amino acid arginine. This component is effective in producing nitric oxide in the body.
Note that nitric oxide is a gas molecule that helps to relax and dilate the blood vessels. This helps to reduce high blood pressure, leading to a reduction in the risk of heart disease. Research studies indicate that increasing your intake of arginine helps to reduce the levels of C-reactive protein, a type of inflammation marker. Understand that high levels of C-reactive protein have been linked to heart disease.
On the other hand, gamma-linolenic acid helps to reduce inflammation and this also helps to reduce the risk of heart disease. Take note that some animal studies also indicate that hemp seeds or hemp seed oil can help reduce the risk of formation of a blood clot, blood pressure, and promoting recovery after a heart attack.
Reducing Symptoms of Menopause and PMS
It has been established that up to 80% of women of reproductive age may end up suffering from physical or emotional symptoms caused by PMS. The symptoms most likely occur due to the body’s sensitivity to prolactin hormone.
Well, hemp seeds contain gamma-linolenic acid that helps to enhance the production of prostaglandin E1, a component that helps to reduce the effects of prolactin in the body. A study done in women with PMS indicates that taking a gram of essential fatty acids with high amounts of gamma-linolenic acid every day can help to reduce symptoms of PMS.
Besides that, it has been established those fatty acids are generally great in reducing breast tenderness and pain, irritability, and depression. All these conditions have a direct link to PMS. Besides that, hemp seeds have been established to be effective in reducing the inflammation associated with menopause caused by hormonal imbalances.
Protecting the Brain
According to the Food Chemistry journal, hemp seeds have beneficial antioxidants that are good for the brain. These effects are usually a result of the cannabidiol content found in the cannabis plant. The combination of antioxidants with neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties makes them ideal in protecting the brain. These plant extracts can significantly reduce the chances of neurological conditions such as:
- Neuropathic pain
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Parkinson’s disease
- Multiple sclerosis
Relieving Rheumatoid Arthritis
This is an autoimmune condition that occurs when the immune system decides to attack its tissues. This consequentially leads to the inflammation of the joints, a condition that’s known as rheumatoid arthritis.
However, it’s possible to manage and treat this condition by using hemp seed oil. A research study conducted on human cells indicates that such a product may have strong anti-rheumatic effects. However, there is still a need for more research studies to fully determine the effectiveness of hemp seed extracts in treating rheumatic diseases.
Improving Skin Conditions
Skin conditions such as acne and atopic dermatitis all occur as a result of chronic inflammation. But with their anti-inflammatory properties, hemp seeds can be of great help. It’s been established that the high presence of omega-3s in these plant supplements can help manage and reduce symptoms of acne.
Note that a 2018 review explored the possible effects of dietary changes on the skin. It was found that consuming foods with high amounts of omega-3s can help eliminate severe acne symptoms. On the other hand, the authors also indicated that there are evidence plant fibers and prebiotics could be effective in managing symptoms of atopic dermatitis.
Reducing Inflammation
There is a wide range of inflammatory conditions that hemp seeds can readily tackle. They have a high amount of omega-3s and omega-6s all of which are ideal in reducing inflammation. Besides that, the presence of gamma-linolenic acid, a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid may also provide the body with anti-inflammatory effects. All these components may be effective in managing inflammatory conditions such as:
- Arthritis
- Heart disease
- Metabolic syndrome
- Type 2 diabetes
- Non-alcoholic-related fatty liver disease
Why Do Hemp Seeds Have Lots of Benefits?
The benefits of hemp seeds are a result of their components. These are highly nutritious plant-based products that are full of several compounds such as:
- Protein: These seeds have as many proteins as soybeans. They are effective simple sources of protein that are rich in amino acids such as arginine.
- Unsaturated fats: This includes polyunsaturated fats such as omega-3 fatty acids and alpha-linolenic acid. It should be noted that the body can’t produce all the essential fatty acids and some must come from the diet. Taking hemp seeds can effectively provide the body with unsaturated fats that are rich in essential fatty acids.
- Minerals and vitamins: They are some of the major components that make up these seeds. These plant extracts are rich in vitamin E, iron, zinc, potassium, and thiamine among others.
- Fiber: The shell or outer hull of hemp seeds is rich in fiber that’s effective in promoting weight management, reducing appetite, stabilizing blood sugar levels, and promoting a healthy gut.
The Bottom Line
There is a reason why hemp seeds are considered to be superfoods. Well, the benefits of hemp seeds are numerous, ranging from fighting inflammation to helping eliminate the damaging free radicals in the body. This makes them effective in managing conditions such as arthritis, heart disease, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, and acne among others.
