Hemp seeds are one of the many popular raw superfoods that you can add to your diet today. They can be bought at your local grocery store, and they come from the same hemp plant that is famous for its durable fiber. The seeds of the hemp plant, which are also called hemp nuts, are edible and are very healthy. They are one of the ingredients used in many dishes, and they come in different forms, too, such as milk, butter, protein, and tofu. 

You can eat raw hemp seeds by sprinkling them over a salad, as a topping on granola, or mixing them with other deserts. You can also add them to smoothies or use them in baking and cooking. But keep in mind that the nutritional content of hemp seeds is at its highest when they are raw. Hemp is also considered as one of the most sustainable plants on the planet. It’s because it does not deplete the soil, and it can be cultivated easily in many different places. Therefore, they are also great for those who are into sustainable living. 

If you want to know more about hemp seeds and how they can benefit your health, you’re in the right place. Today, we are going to give you facts about hemp seeds and as well as their health benefits. 

A Common Misconception About Hemp Seeds

Hemp is associated with recreational drug marijuana, that’s why a lot of people have a negative opinion about adding hemp seeds to their diet. Well, it’s true that both hemp and marijuana come from the same plant species, which is the Cannabis Sativa L., they still have important differences. It’s because the flowering top and the leaves of the Cannabis plant are the ones that contain the psychoactive elements and also the tetrahydrocannabinol or THC, which most people associate with the drug marijuana. However, the seeds and fibers of the hemp plant contain very low levels of THC.

Hemp only contains less than 0.3% THC, which means that consuming it will not get you high. Even though hemp plants and marijuana plants come from the same species, they are cultivated differently. Hemp plants are grown for their fiber and seeds, while marijuana plants are cultivated for their THC content. Also, the seeds of the hemp plant contain essential fatty acids as well as fiber, protein, and other nutrients. Even though these seeds contain the cannabinoid called cannabidiol, they do not have any effect on a person’s conscious state. 

This means that hemp seeds are safe to eat, and they do not have the same effects as what marijuana does to people. 

Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds

Now that you know the truth about consuming hemp seeds and other hemp products, you might also be wondering about the health benefits that you can get from them since they are considered as raw superfoods. Hemp seeds are very nutritious. To know more, here are some of their health benefits. 

Hemp seeds are rich in essential nutrients

The many health benefits of hemp seeds are connected to their nutritional content. These seeds contain about 35% essential fatty acids and 33% plant protein. They also contain all nine essential amino acids. They are also great sources of gamma-linolenic acid or GLA, and as well as dietary fiber. This is the reason why hemp is considered one of the most nutritious plants in the world. 

Hemp seeds are rich in both omega-3s and omega-6s, and they come in a ratio that is highly beneficial to humans. Aside from that, hemp seeds are also rich in magnesium, potassium, and iron, along with fiber. They also contain antioxidants that come from their vitamin E content. 

Hemp seeds can help in building muscle mass

Instead of using protein powders, you can add a dose of protein-rich hemp to your smoothie to make your drink more natural. Unlike other plant-based protein sources, hemp seeds have all the essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. In fact, three tablespoons of hemp seeds can give you 10 grams of protein, which is the same amount that you can get from some protein bars and from three ounces of cottage cheese. 

Hemp seeds can boost energy

Hemp seeds also contain a small amount of complex carbohydrates, which is a gram per tablespoon. These complex carbohydrates release glucose slowly into the bloodstream. Based on the American Heart Association, this can prevent dreaded energy spike and the following crash. 

Hemp seeds can help in losing weight

When you spend more calories than you take in, weight loss occurs. Therefore, hemp seeds won’t just help you shed pounds, but as well as help in replacing fattier and richer types of protein in the diet, like red meat or whole-fat dairy. 

Hemp seeds may reduce the risk of heart disease

The number 1 killer worldwide is cardiovascular disease, but consuming hemp seeds can help reduce the risk. It’s because they are rich in the amino acid arginine, which is essential in the body’s production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is responsible for causing the blood vessels to dilate and relax, which can help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease. 

Hemp seeds can aid in healthy digestion

Aside from their protein and fat content, hemp seeds are also rich in both soluble and insoluble dietary fiber, which can help keep your digestion regular. The mixture of these dietary fibers can help in the growth of beneficial bacteria in your gut, which supports healthy digestion and a strong immune system.

Hemp seeds can improve your hair, skin, and nails

Hemp seeds are rich in omega-3 and omega-6, which are oils that are usually used in cosmetics because they can penetrate through layers of skin to promote cell growth. This means that eating hemp seeds can help repair and moisturize dry and damaged skin, and as well as support healthy nails and hair. 

These are some of the health benefits that you can great from hemp seeds. These miracle grains are indeed a powerhouse of healthy nutrition. If you are looking for ways on how to make your meals or drinks healthier, you can try adding hemp seeds to them and enjoy their health benefits.