Nutrient-dense hemp seeds have been consumed as both food and medicine for thousands of years, with a growing body of clinical research bolstering the humble brown seed to a modern-day superfood. Here Pure Health Hub explores the many health benefits of hemp.
Hemp Seeds are the seed of the hemp plant, Cannabis Sativa, which while relates to cannabis (marijuana) contains only trace amounts of the psychoactive compound that produces a high. But since being legalised for sale as a food product, hemp seeds are creating health highs. Here are just a few reasons why you should consider adding a handful of the superpowered seeds to your daily diet.
1. Hemp is packed with essential nutrients
Packed with vitamins and minerals that play a vital role in cellular health, hemp is especially rich in vitamin E, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron, zinc, and B vitamins, including niacin, riboflavin, thiamine, vitamin B-6 and folate.
2. Hemp seeds are an excellent source of protein
One of the few plant-based sources of complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids, 30 grams of hemp seed delivers a whopping 9.4 grams of protein, making them a valuable addition to a healthy diet.
3. Hemp is a natural sleep aid
Not only is hemp seed high in magnesium, a super mineral that’s essential for the body’s healthy function and a natural relaxant that can help increase sleep efficiency, hemp seeds contain high concentrations of the sleep hormone melatonin.
4. Hemp products can reduce the symptoms of PMS
Hemp seeds contain extremely high concentrations of two essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), which studies have demonstrated can be effective in reducing the symptoms of PMS including irritability, breast tenderness and fluid retention.
5. Hemp may ease the symptoms of menopause
Early studies have indicated they help assist in regulating symptoms associated with menopause. Hemp seeds are high in Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) which have been shown to ease menopausal flushing, sleep disruption and irritability in menopause.
6. Hemp Can Help Reduce Inflammation
The high quantities of essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3), found in hemp seeds can work together to help to reduce inflammation in the body. Reducing inflammation can assist in the management of symptoms of conditions such as nerve damage, high blood pressure, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), arthritis, non alcohol-related fatty liver disease and other autoimmune diseases and inflammatory issues.
7. Hemp seeds may aid heart health
Research suggests that hemp seeds can be beneficial to heart health. Not only do they contain high levels of Omega-3s and healthy amounts of Omega-6 fatty acids, which can reduce the risk of dying from heart disease, they boast high levels of the amino acid arginine, which produces nitric oxide, essential for the dilation of blood vessels, raising blood supply and lowering blood pressure.
8. Hemp seeds can aid digestion
Whole hemp seeds are an excellent source of soluble and insoluble dietary fibre. Soluble fibre is rich in nutrients that support the growth of good gut bacteria, while insoluble fibre helps to regulate blood sugar and adds the necessary bulk to help food waste quickly pass through the body.
9. Hemp seeds can help boost the immune system.
Hemp seed protein check consists is made up mostly of the glubulin protein Edestin, a protein that assists the maintenance of a healthy immune system, is used to manufacture antibodies and helps the body fight against infection.
10. Hemp may help in the management of Type 2 Diabetes
One of the most interesting health benefits of hemp relates to Type 2 Diabetes. While further research is underway, a clinical trial of a Hemp Oz drink combining hemp oil and kombucha on SBS program Medicine or Myth demonstrated significant improvement in fasting blood sugar levels in participants with Type 2 Diabetes or pre-diabetic blood glucose levels.
This article provides general information only, and does not constitute health or medical advice. If you have any concerns regarding your health, seek immediate medical attention.
