Hemp seeds are all the rage in health food stores these days. It’s more than just a supplement. With its abundant nutritional compounds, it’s considered a superfood by most.
Hemp seeds come from the cannabis sativa plant, but despite this, they only contain trace amounts of THC and don’t produce any mind-altering side effects. As a matter of fact, they’re completely legal in the United States and can be found in a number of high-profile stores that sell vitamins, supplements, and health foods.
Hemp seeds are a healthy way to get many beneficial nutrients in your diet
These tiny seeds are packed full of fiber, protein (they contain all 9 essential amino acids), antioxidants, and polyunsaturated fats (the healthy fatty acids) such as omega-3s and omega-6s. They also have a myriad of vitamins and minerals including vitamin E, magnesium, phosphorous, potassium, niacin, vitamin B-6, zinc, and folate.
That being said, it’s easy to see why they’re becoming so popular in the wellness market. Let’s take a look at some of the specific benefits associated with hemp seeds.
Hemp Seeds Are Good For Your Brain
Let’s circle back to the topic of antioxidants in hemp seeds. Their presence was confirmed by a study published last year in The Journal of Food Chemistry. Furthermore, a clinical review also conducted last year discovered that these antioxidants can have neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory effects. According to the research, hemp seeds can help reduce the symptoms of multiple neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s, Alzheimer’s, multiple sclerosis, and various seizure disorders.
They’re Also Good For Your Heart
Hemp seeds contain a prefect ratio of omega-3 to omega-6 fatty acids. Because of this, researchers believe they can help reduce the risk of heart disease and arrhythmia, although the science behind this is inconclusive. Hemp seeds also contain arginine, an amino acids that converts to nitric oxide once metabolized. Nitric oxide is known to help keep the walls of your blood vessels smooth, elastic, and well-dilated. This leads to improved blood flow and it can help prevent clotting and plaque buildup.
Hemp Seeds May Reduce Inflammation
These seeds are full of gamma linolenic acid (GLA) which is proven to have anti-inflammatory effects. Reducing inflammation is essential in the management of various chronic conditions such as arthritis, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes, and fatty liver disease (non-alcohol related). Treating inflammation can also be helpful for people dealing with certain skin conditions such as acne and eczema.
Final Thoughts
There is a lot of research out there indicating a link between hemp seeds and various health benefits. It’s important to keep in mind that most of these studies use very high concentrations of hemp seed extracts, so eating a regular amount of seeds might not produce the same effects. However, they are full of beneficial nutrients that, when added to an already well-rounded diet, can certainly have a positive impact on your overall health and well-being.
