6 Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds

Hemps seeds offer a myriad of health advantages. It’s packed with protein, fiber, essential fatty acids, antioxidants, minerals, and many more. Despite its benefits, numerous people tend to shake their heads from using hemp seeds since they’re derived from the Cannabis sativa plant.

However, we’re not talking about psychoactive cannabis or Marijuana here. We’re referring to hemp seeds that do not have mind-altering effects. In fact, it does support brain development and neurotransmitter function, instead. Adding to that, here are other benefits of hemp seeds you should know.

Reduce the Risks of Heart Disease

Hemp seeds contain high levels of arginine, an amino acid that produces nitric oxide in our body. Nitric oxide (NO) is a free radical gas molecule that allows your blood vessels to dilate and relax. As a result, one’s blood pressure and the risks of any heart disease would be lowered.

Hemp seeds have gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), as well. GLA is typically found in vegetable oils, such as borage oil and evening primrose oil. Even so, research revealed that GLA in hemp seeds could reduce inflammation, which, in turn, lessens the risks of heart disease and other diseases.

Treat Skin Disorders

Recent studies discovered that hemp seeds’ abundance of polyunsaturated and healthy fatty acids, as well as its antibacterial properties, can medicate skin issues. Healthy fats are essential for reducing inflammation and improving the immune system. Hemp seeds have a 2:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, which is considered as the optimal range that can benefit skin disorders.

Eczema, psoriasis, varicose eczema or stasis dermatitis, and acne rosacea (small, red, pimple-like facial bumps) are a few of many skin conditions that can be treated by hemp seeds , specifically its oil.

Alleviate Menopausal and Premenstrual Syndromes

As mentioned earlier, hemp seeds contain high levels of GLA or gamma-linolenic acid. Another benefit of GLA, specifically to women, is that it produces alprostadil or Prostaglandin E1 that can relieve the adverse effects of prolactin. It’s the sensitivity of prolactin that typically  caused women’s premenstrual syndromes (PMS).

Since hemp seeds are rich in GLA and have been discovered to relieve PMS, recent research also linked it to menopause relief and found out that it does aid in reducing menopausal symptoms. Hemp seeds regulate the inflammation and hormonal imbalances associated with menopause.

Support Gut Health

Hemp seeds can help your digestion, too. They contain 80% insoluble fiber and 20% soluble fiber. Insoluble fiber adds roughage or dietary fiber (can’t be absorbed or digested by the human body, primarily found in plants) to one’s stool so it can easily pass through the stomach and intestines.

Soluble fiber, on the other hand, slows down digestion. It’s crucial for weight loss management as it would keep someone feels satiated or full without intaking more calories. Also, soluble fiber aids in preventing diarrhea and constipation as it soaks up water as it runs inside the body, consequently hydrating your waste.

Nowadays, there are various variations of hemp seeds for sale. If you’re worried about your bowel movement, make sure to purchase whole hemp seeds. The shell is the part in hemp seeds that is high in fiber. That’s why hemp hearts or those de-hulled or shelled hemp seeds mostly contain less fiber.

Improve Muscle Building

Hemp seeds are a great source of protein, offering all nine essential amino acids. What makes it more special is that it’s very rare for plant-based food to be a complete source of protein. Hence, many vegans and vegetarians considered it as a valuable addition to their diets. Its PDCAAS or protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score is equal to or better than many other plant-based protein sources.

As it’s rich in protein, it’s beneficial for muscle building. Unfortunately, hemp seeds have lower levels of leucine, the primary amino acid needed in muscle protein synthesis for muscle growth. Hemp seeds are still the best protein alternative for vegan or vegetarian bodybuilders than other plant-based protein sources like soy, whey, and eggs, which are allergens and can cause digestive distress.

Protect Neuronal Structure and Function

Many dieticians dubbed hemp seeds as a ‘brain food’ due to its neuroprotective properties that can be traced back to its abundance of protein. Protein isn’t only for muscle building, but it’s also critical for brain development and neurotransmitter function. Improving neurotransmitters is critical for optimal brain function and mental health, and protein from hemp seeds can contribute to this.

Moreover, recent research has revealed how hemp seeds can treat several neurological conditions, including childhood seizure disorders, neuropathic pain, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.

Takeaway

Hemp seeds have a rich nutritional profile. It contains omega-3s and omega-6s (the healthful fatty acids), minerals like calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc, protein, fiber, antioxidants, and other micronutrients. There’s no wonder why people are starting to consider it as ‘superfood.’