Hemp seeds are a rich source of nutrients. Part of the hemp plant, these seeds are technically like a nut, which can be eaten raw or used to make milk, oil, cheese substitute or protein powder. For centuries, seeds have been used for oral and topical applications to treat and prevent certain health problems. Hemp nutty flavor and versatility also make them a great substitute for the protein, essential fatty acids and other nutritional benefits found in meat and dairy products. We are telling you here about the benefits of hemp seeds.
What are Hemp Seeds Called
Meaning of hemp seeds in Hindi are edible oval shaped seeds derived from the cannabis plant. Hemp seeds belong to the Cannabis sativa family and are packed with the richest source of complete proteins, essential fats, vitamins and enzymes. Hemp seeds are one of nature’s best super foods. These small, brown seeds are rich in protein, fiber, and healthful fatty acids, including omega-3 and omega-6. They have antioxidant effects and can reduce the symptoms of many diseases. Whole hemp seeds also boast a hard light brown shell and extra crunchy texture. However, hemp seeds are often cracked open to expose the greenish-beige kernels. These peeled hemp seeds, also called hemp hearts or hemp nuts, are slightly softer but still slightly crunchy. You can also find hemp seeds in powdered form, usually a plant-based protein.
Hemp Seeds Benefits – Benefits of Hemp Seeds
- Gives relief from insomnia
- Source of protein
- Take care of heart
- Help in weight loss
- Improve digestive health
- Reduce PMS and Menopause Symptoms
- Promotes health of hair, skin and nails
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of vitamin E and minerals, such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, iron and zinc,” says Whittington. “Vitamin E is a powerful antioxidant that reduces oxidative stress, promoting healthy skin. Controls diabetes, and eases osteoarthritis. Hemp seeds are an excellent source of plant-based protein. They contain all nine essential amino acids, and research shows that the protein content of hemp is well absorbed by our bodies. Know the benefits of hemp seeds.
Source of Protein
Hemp seeds contain the same amount of protein as soybeans. Each 30-gram (g) seed, or about 3 tablespoons, contains 9.46 grams of protein. Hemp seeds are especially rich in an amino acid called arginine, which is beneficial for heart health. Hemp seeds are one of the only dietary sources of a plant, containing all 21 amino acids that make it a complete protein compared to eggs, milk and fish. Hemp seeds are a powerhouse of all 8 essential amino acids that the body cannot produce, but is needed for muscle strength, repair, building stamina, weight loss, stress reduction and many other things.
Gives relief from Insomnia
In the age of social media, sleep has fought with eyes. It is not known when the whole night goes out while binge-watching the web series. Gradually it becomes part of the habit and sleeplessness naturally subsides. Hemp seeds can help you a lot in this. Take a handful of hemp seeds and have a peaceful sleep, as hemp seeds are packed with magnesium which is known to have a soothing and relaxing feeling throughout the body. One serving of hemp seeds contains 50% of the daily recommended dose of magnesium.
Take Care of Heart
Hemp seeds play an important role in protecting heart health while also maintaining a proper balance of cholesterol levels. It is perhaps the only plant that can ensure saturated fat in precise proportions by preventing atherosclerosis, heart attacks and strokes. The presence of amino acids, arginine and gamma-linoleic acid help reduce inflammation, lower blood pressure and improve heart health.
Help in Weight loss
Consuming seeds from the hemp plant acts as a natural apatite and can help you feel full for longer and reduce sugar cravings. Adding these seeds and other high-fiber foods to meals or smoothies can help curb excess hunger. This is partly due to the fiber content, which promotes satiety and in turn aids in weight loss. This could possibly be due to increased satiety and energy intake after eating foods high in fiber.
Improve Digestive Health
Digestion has become a major problem in today’s lifestyle. Due to overeating outside food, the problem of digestion has also started increasing. Hemp seeds are a great source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. The fiber in hemp seeds stimulates bowel function and thus prevents constipation. The fiber present in hemp seeds makes the stomach feel full, slows down the absorption of glucose and lowers cholesterol levels.
Reduce PMS and Menopause Symptoms
Up to 80% of women of reproductive age may suffer from physical or emotional symptoms caused by premenstrual syndrome (PMS). These symptoms make it likely due to sensitivity to the hormone prolactin. The presence of gamma-linolenic acid in hemp seeds acts as a hormone regulator for the thyroid, pancreas, and reduces many symptoms caused by hormonal imbalances during menopause, mood swings, depression, and anxiety. While hemp seeds are high in GLA, several studies have indicated that they may also help reduce menopausal symptoms.
Promotes Health of Hair, Skin and Nails
The benefits of hemp seeds for skin and hair go a long way in improving dry, red, flaky skin. Used mostly in high-end cosmetic products, hemp oil is often incorporated into lip balms, lotions, and soaps. Hemp seed oil penetrates the inner layers of the skin and promotes healthy cell growth – the recipe for smooth, soft skin. While hemp seed oil is also good for skin disorders, such as psoriasis and eczema, it is also a good idea to incorporate the seeds of the plant into your diet to maximize these benefits. You can also make a homemade skin cream by combining essential oils such as hemp seed oil, shea butter and lavender.
How to Use Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds have a mild nutty flavor, which makes them ideal for a myriad of dishes. Hemp seeds are mild and sensitive to heat, so add them to your meals after cooking. They can be roasted and sprinkled on your salads, soups, breakfast cereals. You can add it to your yogurt or smoothie. Their creamy texture and nutty flavor pair well with cakes, cookies and desserts. Hemp seeds are generally allergy free and safe and do not cause any interactions with common medicine except anti-coagulants. Pregnant and lactating women should also be cautious while adding hemp seeds to their diet. Also simply spread nut butter on a banana, then roll it in hemp seeds for a nutritious and easy snack. Hemp seeds can be used to coat proteins, just as you would with nuts or breadcrumbs.
Side Effects of Hemp Seeds – Disadvantages of Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds come from the cannabis plant, but they ideally contain no tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the active ingredient in cannabis. However, athletes and others who undergo medicine testing should be aware that consuming cannabis products can cause a failed urine test in some cases. The level of THC in any cannabis-based product depends on the suppliers and the manufacturing process. Taking hemp seeds by mouth can cause a number of side effects, including:
- Sore throat
- Diarrhea
- Nausea and vomiting
- Bradycardia, or slow heart rate
- High blood pressure
Eating hemp seeds is not considered as unsafe as eating hemp leaves or other parts of the plant. But due to the high fat content, the seeds can cause mild diarrhea.
READ MORE:
- Benefits of Applying Oil in Navel From Health to Skin
- Benefits of Eating Tilapia Fish and Side Effects
- Benefits of Eating Tuna Fish and Side Effects
Frequently Asked Questions and Answers About Hemp Seeds
Q1. Should hemp seeds be eaten daily?
Answer- Daily consumption of hemp seeds should be done only after the advice of the doctor.
Q2. Does eating hemp seeds cause sleepiness?
Answer- Hemp seeds give relief in insomnia.
If you like the benefits of hemp seeds given here, then do not forget to share them with your friends and family members.
