When you hear the word 'hemp', something comes to mind, right? But what many people don't know is that there is a plant species with the same name that is non-intoxicating and extremely nutritious. Today we are going to talk about that superfood called 'Hemp' or 'Industrial Hemp'. You will be surprised to know how valuable this is to our health!
Simply put, industrial hemp is a strain of the same plant as Cannabis sativa, but it is specially grown to produce no psychoactive effects. This means it is completely different from the cannabis used to get high. For thousands of years, people have used this plant for fiber, oil, and as a very important source of nutrition.
When it comes to nutrition, the most valuable part of this plant is its seeds. These seeds can be eaten with or without the skin. You can also make milk from these seeds, such as soy milk. You can also use Hemp seed oil for cooking, just like olive oil. For those who want to reap these amazing health benefits, these are now available as supplements.
Amazing health benefits of hemp seeds
The vitamins, minerals, and nutrients found in hemp seeds provide our bodies with many significant health benefits. For example, hemp oil is rich in vitamin E. This vitamin E helps our immune system function well. In addition, it also acts as a powerful antioxidant. That is, it helps reduce harmful substances called free radicals that damage the cells in our body.
Now let's see what other major benefits these seeds provide.
Reduces the risk of heart disease
To keep our heart and circulatory system healthy, it is very important that the foods we eat contain healthy fats. Hemp seeds are a rich source of these beneficial fatty acids called omega-3 and omega-6 . Both of these fatty acids are known to improve heart health by reducing cholesterol, blood pressure, and triglycerides. Therefore, adding hemp oil to your diet can reduce the risk of future heart disease.
Reduces premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
Many women suffer from various physical and emotional discomforts that occur a few days before their monthly period. Hemp oil is rich in a special fatty acid called gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Research has found that this GLA reduces PMS symptoms.
Simply put, a hormone called prolactin in our body is responsible for many of the symptoms of PMS, such as breast tenderness, irritability, bloating, and depression. So GLA reduces the effects of that prolactin hormone. Therefore, hemp oil can be a good help in relieving these unpleasant symptoms.
Facilitates the digestion process
Fiber is essential for a healthy digestive system. Whole hemp seeds are a great source of both soluble and insoluble fiber.
- Insoluble fiber helps to bulk up stools and make them easier to pass. It has also been linked to reducing the risk of colon cancer.
- Soluble fiber is like a prebiotic, meaning it feeds the "good" bacteria in our gut and helps them grow.
Together, these two types of fiber help keep our digestive system functioning properly, and they also help prevent common conditions like constipation, stomach ulcers, and hemorrhoids.
| Main health benefit | How to help the body |
|---|---|
| Improving heart health | Omega-3 and omega-6 lower cholesterol and blood pressure. |
| Reducing PMS symptoms | GLA regulates hormonal imbalances and reduces pain and discomfort. |
| Facilitating digestion | Soluble and insoluble fiber prevent constipation and maintain intestinal health. |
| Eczema relief | It can help balance blood lipids and reduce skin dryness and itching. |
| Being a complete protein source | Despite being a plant-based food, it contains all the amino acids the body needs. |
May help reduce eczema and rashes
The combination of omega-3 and omega-6 in hemp is not only good for your heart, but also for your skin. Preliminary studies suggest that adding hemp oil to your diet may help relieve symptoms of skin conditions like eczema. Apparently, the oil in hemp seeds helps balance lipids in our blood, reducing dryness and itching of the skin. Although more research is needed on this, replacing other oils in your diet with hemp oil may be a safe and easy way to reduce skin discomfort.
One of the best sources of protein for plant-based diets
Protein is essential for the health of our muscles and organs. Hemp seeds are one of the few plant foods that are considered a "complete" protein . This means that they contain all of the essential amino acids that our bodies need to get from outside sources. In addition, hemp protein is more easily absorbed by our bodies than most plant proteins. If you are someone who avoids meat and fish, adding some hemp seeds to your diet is a great way to get more protein.
How much is good to use?
Hemp seeds are not a low-calorie food. A 3-tablespoon serving of hemp seeds contains about 166 calories. So if you're trying to control your weight, it's important to watch your calorie intake. After all, too much is never good. By adding this amount to your diet once or twice a day, you can reap the benefits of these nutritious seeds as part of a balanced diet.
The most important thing is to definitely talk to your doctor and seek advice before adding anything new to your diet, especially if you have other medical conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Take-Home Message
- Hemp is not a drug that causes intoxication. It is a plant that has no psychoactive effects, is highly nutritious, and is beneficial to health.
- It is very good for heart health because it is rich in beneficial fatty acids like Omega-3 and Omega-6.
- A "complete" protein source that is very valuable for those who eat a plant-based diet, containing all the amino acids the body needs.
- It can help ease digestion, reduce skin dryness and itching, and reduce PMS discomfort in women.
- Because it is quite high in calories, it is best to consume a limited amount, such as a few tablespoons per day.
- It is wise to consult your doctor before adding anything like this to your diet.
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