The Mighty Hemp Seed

Hemp seeds are rich in both nutrients and beneficial fatty acids. The seeds are well-recognized as an incredibly healthy food. Yet they are not as well known as other seeds like chia and flax, because hemp products were banned in 1937. And some people may still be concerned that it comes from the same plant as marijuana. Hemp is related to marijuana, which also comes from the Cannabis plant. However, the two are not the same, and no hemp product causes the “high” associated with marijuana. The psychoactive compounds in marijuana that cause its well-known effects are known as tetrahydrocannabinoids (THC). Hemp contains little to no THC. In fact, trace amounts are often present in the leaves and flowers but not the seeds. Here are some of the many health benefits of the mighty hemp seed.

Fiber

Hemp seeds are a great source of fiber. They contain both soluble and insoluble fiber, which are both important for digestive health. You’ll get the most fiber from whole hemp seeds because much of it lies in the tough outer hull. However, even shelled hemp seeds (also called hemp hearts) still contain about 1.2 grams of fiber in a 2 tablespoon serving. Consuming enough fiber can help you maintain healthy blood sugar levels. And because fiber helps you feel full, it can be an effective tool if you are trying to maintain a healthy weight.

Anti-Inflammatory

The fatty acids in hemp seeds give them the ability to act as an anti-inflammatory. They contain both healthy omega-3 and gamma linolenic acid (GLA). Inflammation plays an important role in health and disease. And many of the chronic diseases of modern society have a root cause of inflammation. Omega-3 and GLA are both polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) which are known to have a positive effect on health. The key to good health is having the proper ration of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids. Most commercially prepared foods contain only omega-6 fatty acids which can through off your balance. The omega-6 fatty acid GLA, is essential for maintaining brain function, skeletal health, reproductive health, and metabolism.

Skin and Hair Health

The main benefits of hemp seeds for your skin come from the healthy fatty acids they contain. Omega-3 fatty acids, in particular, are known for their positive affect on the skin. They benefit the overall health of your skin by improving your skin barrier. The skin barrier is what keeps potential toxins out and keeps moisture in. Other studies have shown that fatty acids like omega-3 can help with symptoms of skin disorders like psoriasis and eczema. Symptoms like dryness, roughness, redness, and scaling can all be reduced by consuming enough omega-3. Hemp seeds also contain about 77% of the daily value for vitamin E. Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant vitamin that’s great for skin health.

Protein

Hemp seeds are an excellent source of protein. They contain what is often referred to as the “perfect protein.” This means they contain all 20 amino acids, including the 9 essential ones that your body can’t produce. In addition, hulled hemp seeds are an extremely digestible form of protein. It is thought that hemp protein is more easily digestible than the protein found in most grains, nuts, and legumes.

Magnesium

Hemp seeds are a great source of several important minerals including manganese, magnesium, phosphorous, zinc and iron. Magnesium is especially important for your health because it is used in over 300 enzymatic reactions within your body. And many people are deficient in magnesium. Consuming 1 to 2 tablespoons a day will help you reap all the benefits of the mighty hemp seed. They have a mild nutty flavor and can be easily sprinkled on top of cereals or added to a smoothie. You can also consume them as hemp milk, hemp seed oi, hemp nut better, or hemp protein.

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