Hemp seeds are the tiny, nutrient-dense seeds of the hemp plant. They've been used for centuries due to their nutritious and healing properties. Hemp seeds are a complete protein, meaning they contain all 20 amino acids needed for muscle development. They're also a great source of essential fatty acids, including Omega-3 fatty acids and GLA. GLA is a type of Omega-6 fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties. In this blog post, we'll be introducing 6 surprising benefits of hemp seeds!
How healthy are hemp seeds really?
Hemp seeds are a real powerhouse of nutrients. They are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, potassium, zinc, iron, and calcium. But hemp seeds aren't just nutritious, they have numerous other health benefits too.
1. Hemp seeds improve gut health
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of fiber, helping to ensure your gut functions optimally. The indigestible parts of food provide bulk to prevent constipation and alleviate associated symptoms like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) or diarrhea – a symptom that occurs when we don't take in enough fiber with our diet. The proteins in hemp fibers nourish the probiotics in our gut, known as "good bacteria", essential for a balanced microbiome.
2. They help keep hair, skin, and nails healthy
Hemp seeds naturally contribute to skincare. They're packed with nutrients that can improve your complexion from the inside out, including promoting healthy cell growth, reducing dryness, and strengthening nails and hair.
3. They're a great plant-based protein source
Hemp seeds are an excellent food for anyone looking to increase their protein intake. Especially for those who don't consume animal proteins, hemp seeds make a suitable supplement - 100g of hemp seeds contain a whopping 25g of protein.
4. Hemp seeds can assist in weight loss
Hemp is a plant that contains fiber, meaning it keeps you feeling full for longer. Fiber can also curb appetite and keep cravings in check, as it slows the absorption of calories from food into the bloodstream.
5. Hemp seeds may help alleviate arthritis symptoms
Hemp seed oil is a potential new treatment for arthritis. It's been recently shown that this plant-based product can lower the survival rate of fibroblast cells, which lead to rheumatoid arthritis, and in some cases, even cause their death when taken in high doses.
6. They might help improve heart health
Hemp seeds have been shown to improve heart health. They are a good source of Omega-3 fatty acids, known to protect the heart and decrease the risk of heart diseases. Hemp seeds are also a good source of GLA, which has been shown to lower cholesterol levels and blood pressure.
How many hemp seeds per day?
The recommended daily intake of hemp seeds is 30 grams, or about two tablespoons. Hemp seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, or ground into powder. They can also be used in smoothies, soups, and salads.
How dangerous are hemp seeds?
Hemp seeds can be consumed safely. There's no evidence of any unwanted side effects.
What is hemp seed oil?
Hemp seed oil is a natural oil extracted from the seeds of the hemp plant. The extraction method is similar to cold-pressing olives to make olive oil. It can be used in various ways, including as a cooking oil, in personal care products, or as a lamp fuel. Hemp seed oil is also a source of essential fatty acids, including Omega-3 and Omega-6. These essential fatty acids are necessary for human health and can't be produced by our bodies. Hemp seed oil is a great way to incorporate these essential nutrients into our diet.
Hemp seed oil has a nutty flavor and light green color, making it perfect for salad dressings and dip sauces. However, care should be taken when cooking with hemp oil, as its smoke point is relatively low at 165°C (329°F). When buying hemp seed oil, look for products that are cold-pressed, unrefined, and organic. Store the oil in a cool, dark place to preserve its freshness.
Difference between hemp seed oil and CBD oil
Hemp seed oil and CBD oil are both extracted from the hemp plant, but they are different products. Hemp seed oil is derived from the seeds of the plant and is a source of essential fatty acids.
CBD oil is derived from the leaves, flowers, and stems of the hemp plant and contains cannabinoids, which can be used for medicinal purposes.
Conclusion
Hemp seeds offer various health benefits and can be used in many ways. When purchasing oil, pay attention to the quality and proper storage to fully benefit from the advantages of this natural product. No known undesirable side effects have been associated with hemp seeds, and they are a good addition to the diet of vegans or vegetarians because of their high protein content.