There is a lot of buzz going on these days about hemp seeds, about its suitability, benefits, advantages and that makes you wonder what all the hoopla is about! Perhaps a little bit concerned too about whether to include in your daily diet. Well, you can put your doubts to rest. While it may look like marijuana, the hemp plant is basically a different variety of cannabis that contains very little of the active ingredient THC (Tetra-hydro-cannabinol), the ill-famed part of marijuana. Ignored in the past, the hemp seeds, loaded with healthy fats, protein, and vital nutrients offer a number of benefits and make a healthy addition to your diet.
Reduced heart diseases
Heart disease is the number one cause of death around the world. Fortunately, the risk of heart disease may be reduced due to numerous benefits of hemp seeds. The nitric oxide produced by arginine in hemp seeds results in enlarged and relaxed blood vessels and decrease hypertension. Hemp seeds contain exceptional amounts of two essential fatty acids – linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). The balanced omega-3/6 ratio helps ease inflammation leading to atherosclerosis in your arteries and hypertension. Lower blood pressure correlates to a lower risk for heart disease.
Anti-Cancer benefits
Hemp seeds have a positive effect on cancer due to its supposed inhibition of tumor cell proliferation. The THC in hemp seeds, although very negligible, is seen to have a fair safety profile when consuming in proper doses, as well as also having anti-proliferative properties on tumor cells. Such a feature is vital in the effort to reduce mass growth in cancer patients around the world.
Skin problems
Hemp is commonly found in high-end cosmetics, such as lip balms, lotions, and soaps. Hemp seed oil is said to penetrate the inner layers of the skin and inspire steady cellular growth. The result is soft and smooth skin. Hemp seed is also endorsed for skin disorders such as psoriasis and eczema. The oils in this particular seed allow skins to become hydrated and healthy due to increased skin cell growth.
Immune system & digestion
Whole hemp seeds are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. It helps to keep your gastrointestinal system functioning smoothly. With its sufficient amounts of fiber, the shells of hemp seeds propagate the movement of food and waste through the digestive system. In fact, it is the shell of the hemp seed that contains most, if not all, the fiber found in the seed. Moreover, this healthy grouping of fiber nourishes the probiotics in your gut and helps secure a robust immune system.
Hormones (GLA)
Prostaglandins, a hormone-like component was found to control irritation and control body temperature, smooth muscle cramps and is essential for other bodily functions. Hemp seed contains rich GLA (Gamma-linolenic acid) is said to be a required building block for prostaglandins, and researchers have judged that GLA supplementation is essential for good hormone health.
Rich with protein
Hemp seeds are considered a complete source of protein as it provides all essential amino acids, which human body cannot generate. A mere 30 grams of this seed can offer about 11 grams of protein. Hemp seeds contain two vital proteins – edestin and albumin. Amino acids slow the digestion process and therefore keeps the body feeling fuller – the key to natural weight loss.
Decrease hypertension, anxiety, and stress
If you are feeling stressed or anxious then a regular dose of hemp seeds can be a reliever for you. The relaxing effects of hemp seeds promote dilation of blood vessels, resulting in lower blood pressure and thereby lesser risks of cardiac problems. The many vitamins and minerals present in hemp make it a powerful stress reliever. Like other similar seeds, hemp seeds have very high levels of magnesium, amino acids, and B Vitamins, which makes them a natural antagonist for stress.
Reduce arthritis and joint pain
The anti-inflammatory effects of gamma-linolenic acid from hemp seeds, when produced in the correct ratio, can allow for joint-pain and arthritis relief. Gamma linolenic acid is an omega-6 fatty substance found in various plant seed oils, such as hemp seeds, which reduces inflammation in the body. Needless to say, decreasing inflammation is the main desire for those suffering from arthritis, because in doing so, it also decreases the strain on joints and the painful experiences in specific limbs.
Calories check
While hemp seeds offer a number of nutritional benefits, they are a concentrated source of calories, with 170 calories per 3-tablespoon serving. It is suggested to include foods like hemp seeds in your daily diet but limit your portion and use them in place of other sources of protein such as meat or chicken which affect your body adversely. If you are looking for a vegetarian alternative to animal protein, then hemp seed is the best solution for you.
Take advantages of this super-seed by adding it to your daily diet chart.
