Superfoods are creating quite the rumble for their sterling nutritional profile. Paving its own niche with the likes of chia seeds and berries is our humble hemp! Also called hemp hearts, hemp seeds are penetrating the diet charts of the health-conscious like never before. It is becoming an ingredient in health supplements, food plans and power-packed meals. Before exploring the nutritional benefits of hemp in detail, let’s understand what Hemp seeds are.
What Are Hemp Seeds Made From?
The edible, oval-shaped seeds of the hemp plant are referred to as hemp seeds. A question that might arise here would be if Hemp seeds and Marijuana are the same. Quite natural! However, we’d have to disappoint you here and say that they are not. Despite being a variant of the plant Cannabis sativa, hemp and marijuana are vastly different from one another.
Unlike Marijuana, hemp is non-intoxicating and that is because of the near absence of THC- the compound that makes you “high”. De-shelled hemp seeds also referred to as hemp hearts or hemp nuts, are soft greenish-buff-coloured seeds that are soft and crunchy.
Here Are Some Of The Health Benefits Of Hemp Seeds
Loaded with as many as 20 amino acids, hemp contains nutrients that your body cannot itself produce; making it the “complete” protein source. Most sources of “complete” proteins are animal products (eggs, milk and meat), but hemp is an excellent alternative for vegans, or for people allergic to soy/nuts. A storehouse of minerals like magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, iron and vitamins A and E, these seeds support 360-degree benefits to your body. Of the many health benefits of Hemp seeds, here we give you three:
1. Hemp hearts for not just your heart but also your skin!
How does hemp seeds help your heart and skin? Promoted by experts as the latest top superfood, the seeds are particularly high in Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids. These seeds have an unusually high (3.5:1) ratio of Omega-6 to Omega-3 fatty acids that lower inflammation and lower bad cholesterol; drastically reducing the risk of heart diseases. Omega-6 fatty acids, on the other hand, help regulate metabolism, revitalise the skin, and boost hair growth. Rich in plant-based proteins and poly-unsaturated fats, applying cold-pressed hemp seed oil gives your skin a healthy glow.
2. Hemp helps to relieve PMS and its symptoms
Yet another benefit these seeds offer is helping to relieve symptoms of PMS. Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) found in hemp hearts are highly effective in reducing breast tenderness and irritability.
3. A ‘hemp’ty treat for every fitness enthusiast
An excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fibre, hemp seeds are also great for your gut. 3 tablespoons of hemp seeds can supplement 50% of your daily value of phosphorous & magnesium and accounts for another 25% of your daily value of zinc. Loaded with proteins, healthy fats, and fibre, this brain food can help regulate body metabolism and also aid weight loss. Add them to your breakfast bowl each day and voila, you have the perfect dietary supplement!
Answering A Few Frequently Asked Questions About Hemp Seed And Its Health Benefits And Side Effects
Does Hemp seeds make you lose weight?
The seeds are a replacement/supplement to your existing diet; it alone won’t help you shed/gain weight.
Do Hemp seeds raise cholesterol?
No, they do not. In fact, Hemp seeds help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure.
Do Hemp seeds contain CBD?
Seeds do not contain CBD.
Does Hemp heart have side effects or cause allergies?
The overall effect Hemp has to offer is positive. However, there are a few things you might want to keep at the back of your mind while consuming it. Those undergoing dietary changes would want to keep a track of the amount they consume. Too much, as cautioned by dietitians, may cause diarrhoea.
Do Hemp seeds need to be refrigerated?
They can be stored in a cool, dry place or even refrigerated for longer shelf-life.
So, How Can I Add Hemp Seeds To My Diet?
With all the above questions going through your mind, it is natural to ask how to incorporate hemp seeds into your diet?
Well, it is as easy as adding a spoon or two into your favourite salad, on top of a bowl of cereal/ oats, or even into your favourite brownie recipe. If you are sensitive to gluten, you can substitute bread crumbs with hemp seeds to coat fried fish, chicken or aloo patty. Just like almond milk, you can make hemp seed milk and consume it in case you are lactose-intolerant. Another great way to use it is to drizzle it over your favourite pasta, rice or sauteed veggies.
Hemp Seeds: A Great Addition To Hype Up Boring Meals
In all, hemp is a superfood: a healthy option you could introduce to your boring everyday meals. Loaded with nutrients and “good” fats, try our hemp hearts today.