10 Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds

What are the Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds? from CannabisNet on Vimeo.

Hemp seeds are derived from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa plant. They contain only very trace amounts of tetrahydrocananbidiol (THC), the compound in cannabis that gets you high; not enough to actually result in any buzz.

But before that turns you off – you should know about the vast health benefits of hemp seeds. Hemp seeds are rich in protein, minerals, and healthy fats.

Here’s why you should be consuming hemp seeds:

Hemp seeds are nutritious: Hemp seeds, also known as hemp hearts, have a mild nutty flavor that makes it easy to incorporate into smoothies, food, and drinks. Hemp seeds contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), more than 30% fat, and are an excellent source of good-quality protein.

Rich in minerals: Hemp seeds are a great source of essential minerals that your body needs to keep you strong and healthy. These include iron, zinc, magnesium, and phosphorus. Just three tablespoons of hemp seeds daily can already provide you with 50% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for phosphorus and magnesium, as well as 25% of the the RDA for zinc, and 15% of iron. Getting enough magnesium and phosphorus is critical for bone health, while iron helps ensure that each cell in your body is receiving an adequate supply of oxygen.

Prevents heart disease: Hemp seeds as well as hemp oil contain two kinds of omega-3 fatty acids (docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid) both of which help lower your risk for developing heart disease, as well as high cholesterol and high blood pressure. These fatty acids lower blood pressure and heart rate. Hemp seeds are also rich in the amino acid arginine, which is responsible for producing nitric oxide in the body. Studies show that arginine reduces the risk of heart disease and helps to lower blood pressure.

Supports digestive health: Hemp seeds are rich in soluble and insoluble fiber, which means that it provides tremendous support for digestive health. The fiber content in hemp seeds also aids in the regulation of cholesterol levels while reducing insulin spikes. To maximize the digestive benefits of hemp seeds, consume them with the shells because its where most of the fiber is found.

Cancer prevention: Hemp seeds’ excellent fatty-acid profile makes it a natural immune booster that also works to suppress inflammation. Studies show that even the trace amounts of THC found in hemp seeds can help reverse glioblastoma, a fatal form of brain cancer. Additionally, its CBD content can help prevent breast cancer growth and proliferation.

Treats symptoms of PMS and menopause: It is estimated that around 80% of women in child-bearing age suffer from symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). However, the gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) content of hemp seeds has been shown to mitigate the effects of prolactin, a hormone responsible for PMS symptoms. Studies also show that the high GLA content of hemp seeds can decrease the symptoms of menopause, help regulate hormonal imbalances, and regulate inflammation associated with menopause.

Treats joint pain and arthritis. Hemp seeds’ GLA content may ease the symptoms of arthritis. Studies show that GLA is beneficial and well-tolerated when it comes to treating rheumatoid arthritis. For best results, take hemp seeds with fish oil daily.

Prevents and treats skin disorders: Hemp seeds are a great source of polyunsaturated and essential fatty acids, both of which are beneficial for skin disorders. In fact, the ratio of essential fatty acids in hemp seeds are in the optimal range, which makes it an excellent dietary supplement for people who are suffering from eczema. Consuming hemp seeds can also provide relief from itchiness and dry skin.

Beneficial for multiple sclerosis: Clinical data shows that hemp seeds may be beneficial for patients of multiple sclerosis. The study says that “co-supplemented hemp seed and evening primrose oils with hot-natured diet (such as peppers) can have beneficial effects in improving clinical symptoms by relapsing remitting MS patients and significant correlation was found between expanded disability status scale (EDSS) and immunological findings.”

Weight loss: Hemp seeds are naturally filling, and help you stay full for longer. For many, hemp seeds act as a natural appetite suppressant. To curb hunger, add 4 tablespoons of hemp seeds with your breakfast or smoothie to keep you satiated for several hours.