Should hemp seed be a part of your diet?
I am always looking for new ways to add more protein to my diet and I’ve found a good one. It’s hemp seed! There are so many benefits to hemp seeds, you’ll be wondering why you haven’t tried them sooner. Hemp seeds come in many different forms, such as whole seeds, hearts (the inside of the seed and is most commonly used), powder, and oil.
No matter how you try it, hemp seeds are pretty easy to add to your diet. You can eat hemp hearts raw and can sprinkle them on pretty much anything. You can add them to a smoothie, or top your yogurt, oatmeal, or salad. About a tablespoon is the recommended daily amount. If you tend to be sensitive to digestive changes, you should start with a smaller amount. Here’s a short guide explaining the nutrient values of hemp seeds and their benefits.
What are hemp seeds?
They are part of the hemp plant. The seeds can be bought whole or as hemp hearts, which are seeds that have been hulled.
What do they taste like?
They have a light nutty flavor. Honestly, they’re pretty mild. They’re also very small and thin, which is nice when you're trying to hide them in your food.
Can you get high from eating Hemp Seeds?
No, you cannot. There is none to trace amounts of THC in the seeds, even though it comes from the same plant as marijuana.
What are the benefits of Hemp Seeds?
There are many! Here are a few that I came across after reviewing several articles.
1. Anti-Inflammatory Properties
The omega-6 fatty acids in hemp seeds is called a gamma-linolenic acid (GLA,) which is said to have anti-inflammatory effects. One study found a 75% reduction in arthritis-associated pain in participants after nine months of GLA supplementation. More specially, it was referenced that it may benefit RA (rheumatoid arthritis).
2. Improves your skin
Cold pressed hemp seeds made into an oil, can also be added to food, as well as be used directly on the skin. It helps with dry and itchy skin, including eczema. New research looking at hemp seed oil’s antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory effects may also help to treat acne.
3. Neuroprotective properties and boosts immune system
There is still lots of research being done, but studies suggest that terpenes (a plant compound found in hemp seeds) may help protect the brain and prevent tumor growth.
Side Note!
There is an exciting case study from 2018 that discusses how CBD in conjunction with delta-9 THC shows a neuroprotective effect for many neurological diseases and is currently being used.
The following is the results summarized in the study:
“Recent neurological uses include adjunctive treatment for malignant brain tumors, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, neuropathic pain, and the childhood seizure disorders Lennox-Gastaut and Dravet syndromes.
In addition, psychiatric and mood disorders, such as schizophrenia, anxiety, depression, addiction, post-concussion syndrome, and posttraumatic stress disorders are being studied using phytocannabinoids.” (Maroon and Bost 2018)
4. Reduce symptoms of PMS and menopause
Women’s Health Magazine had referenced the journal of Reproductive Health which explained that women who consumed two grams of EFAs (essential fatty acids found in hemp seeds) daily over a six month period experienced a reduction in premenstrual syndrome symptoms.
5. Aid in digestion and weight loss
Hemp seed also helps you stay full longer, because of the fiber content. As we know fiber is helpful to our digestion. It does not help with weight loss directly, but if you can replace fatty animal proteins with hemp seed protein, it can assist in weight loss.
6. Improve heart health
There is an optimal amount of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seeds.. Omega acids have been long researched for their cardiac benefits. The daily amount found in hemp seeds supports both heart and cognitive health. It should be noted that many people lack Omega acids in their daily diet.
Nutrition Facts
According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), 3 tablespoons of hemp seeds contain 116 calories and the following nutrients:
9.47 g
2.60 g
1.20 g
14.62 g
1.62 g
11.43 g
1.38 g
*Hemp seeds also contain vitamin E and minerals, such as calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, and zinc.
Are there any negative side effects?
There is very little research in regards to eating hemp seed while pregnant or nursing. At this time, it is not recommended. It also has the potential to interfere with medications, such as anticoagulants. If you take any prescription medication, especially for any cardiac issues, you should consult your doctor before trying it. Otherwise, adverse symptoms are minimal and more rare. It was noted in one of the articles I read, that a sore throat could be a sign of allergy to hemp seed. Overall, they are safe for most people and provide so many nutrients for being tiny seeds.
Are there alternatives to eating the seeds raw?
If you’re not interested in trying it in its seed form, consider Hemp powder. It’s essentially a plant based protein powder you can easily add to a smoothie or any other food. Another option would be hemp oil. They make this by cold pressing the hemp seeds to extract the oil. You can use the oil for cooking, or again add to your food. Though it’s a little harder to find, there is also hemp milk! It contains less sugar and carbs than other types of non-dairy milk.
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