Top Health Benefits of Hemp Seed

The future of hemp is promising and lucrative! In fact, the U.S. hemp market grew by more than $100 million last year with a retail sale value of about $688 million.

According to the leading provider of data and market intelligence for the hemp industry, Hemp Business Journal, the the annual sales of hemp market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22% to reach nearly $1.8 billion by 2020.

Hemp seeds are the seeds of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. They are from the same species as cannabis (marijuana). Although both share the same roots, they carry different traits and affect the human body differently.

Unlike marijuana, these small seeds contain only trace amounts of THC (the compound that causes the psychoactive effects) and are exceptionally nutritious and rich in healthy fats, protein and various minerals.

Here, I have compiled a few of the major benefits of hemp seeds…

Are Incredibly Nutritious

Hemp seeds are rich in two essential fatty acids linoleic acid, alpha- linolenic acid and gamma- linolenic acid. They are also a rich source of protein, vitamin E, potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, sulfur, phosphorus, zinc, iron and sodium. They can be consumed raw, can be cooked or roasted. Even Hemp seed oil has medicinal properties and is been used in China at least 2000 plus years.

Great Source of Plant-Based Protein:

Hemp seeds contains 25% protein based calories. They are a complete source of protein and provide the consumer with all the essential amino acids. These acids are not produced by the body and are needed to be taken from the diet.

Hemp seeds also contain amino acids like cysteine and methionine, high levels of glutamic acid and arginine. Interestingly, by weight, hemp seeds has protein similar to lamb and beef. The digestibility factor of hemp protein is also very good, much better than legumes, grains and nuts.

Reduce Symptoms of PMS and Menopause

More than 70% of women who are of reproductive age suffer from PMS, hemp seeds have Gamma- linolenic acid (GLA) that produces prostaglandin E1 which reduces the effect of prolactin. Studies have indicated that hemp seeds can also decrease irritability, tenderness, depression, fluid retention and breast pain. Having high GLA, these seeds help in regulating inflammation and hormonal imbalances related with menopause.

Benefits in Skin Disorders

Skin disorders are related to imbalance of Omega acids, and hemp seeds are the perfect remedy. These seeds have essential polyunsaturated and 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, which is considered in the optimal range. This helps to retain the necessary fatty acid proportion required for humans.

Hemp seed oil also helps people suffering from eczema which may improve blood levels of essential fatty acids. It also provides relief to dry skin, reduces the need for skin medication and improves itchiness.

Promotes Heart Health

With nutty flavor and being referred as “hemp hearts”, consuming hemp seeds is helpful in reducing the risk of heart diseases. They contain high levels of amino acid arginine which produces nitric oxide in the human body. Nitric oxide, being gas molecules make the blood vessels dilate and relax, maintaining the blood pressure levels and reducing the heart disease related risks.

Weight Loss

Eating hemp seeds will make you feel fuller as it acts as a natural appetite suppressant and cuts sugar cravings. According to experts, four tablespoons of the seed in the morning can curb excess hunger pangs for the entire day. Being low in sodium and calories and complete in protein it keeps body packed with all that is needed (amino acids) to keep body fit and going.

Boosts Immunity

Having so many of the nutrients, proteins, fiber and various beneficial oils, hemp seeds are a reservoir of immunoglobulin resources which are required for disease- eradicating antibodies, helping your body to defend itself against various diseases.

Can Help Treat Arthritis and Joint Pain

According to research, hemp seeds and it’s oil are helpful in relieving rheumatoid arthritis symptoms. It has been found that hemp seed oil has anti- arthritic effects which can help patients suffering from related symptoms.

Improves Digestive Health

Helps with Cancer Treatment

Hemp seeds contain certain phenolic compounds and act as antioxidants preventing cancer from prevailing within the body.Also, they are rich in omega- 3 fatty acids and GLA, making them beneficial in strengthening immune system and balancing inflammation levels.

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