I'm sure you're familiar with sunflower seeds, chia seeds and even pumpkin seeds. But did you know that hemp also produces edible seeds that can be used in a variety of ways? Hemp seeds are a superfood. They are very nutritious and contain many health benefits. In this article, we will present 7 scientifically backed health benefits of hemp seeds.

What are hemp seeds?

Hemp seeds are the seeds of the cannabis plant. Technically, they are nuts that can be eaten raw or made into milk, oil or protein powder. Hemp seeds are rich in nutrients, healthy fats, protein and a variety of minerals.

Nutritional values of hemp seeds

Below are the nutritional values for 3 tablespoons (or 30 grams) of hemp seeds:

Calories: 166

Protein: 9.47 g

Fat: 14.6 g

Carbohydrates: 6.6 g

Fiber: 1.2 g

Sugars: 0.45 g

Hemp seeds are a good source of:

Health benefits of hemp seeds

The health benefits of hemp seeds are enormous. Many modern studies confirm these effects. The medicinal effects of hemp seeds include:

1. Strengthening heart health

Intake of sufficient healthy fats is important for maintaining a healthy heart and cardiovascular system. Hemp seeds contain high amounts of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. They also contain large amounts of the amino acid arginine, which creates nitric oxide in the body. This leads to dilation and relaxation of blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and the risk of heart disease.

Animal and human studies clearly confirm that hemp seeds can improve cardiovascular health and reduce high blood pressure. Thus, adding one to two teaspoons of hemp seeds to your morning smoothie can help lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol and improve triglyceride levels.

2. Reduce inflammatory diseases

The healthy ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 in hemp seeds may interact to counteract inflammation. One of the omega-6 fatty acid components in hemp seeds is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which has similar anti-inflammatory effects to ibuprofen, for example. Research published in the European Journal of Pharmacology has shown that a diet supplemented with GLA reduces inflammatory reactions. Reducing inflammation may help to alleviate chronic diseases.

3. Relieve PMS and menopausal symptoms

Up to 80% of women of reproductive age suffer from physical or emotional symptoms caused by premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Hemp seeds are rich in gammalinolenic acid (GLA), which reduces the symptoms of PMS. Prolactin is often cited as the main cause of unpleasant PMS symptoms. GLA has been shown to reduce the action of this hormone in the body. In a study conducted on women suffering from PMS, taking 1 gram of essential fatty acids per day - including 210 mg of GLA - significantly reduced symptoms.

4. Improved skin

Both atopic dermatitis and acne can be caused by chronic inflammation. Scientists who investigated the effects of hemp oil on atopic dermatitis, a skin disease that causes inflammation and dry skin, concluded that patients' symptoms decreased after using hemp oil derived from hemp seeds.

5. Better digestion

Fibre is important for a healthy digestive system and hemp seeds are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fibre. Hemp seeds also supply the gut with probiotics and help to boost the immune system.

  • Soluble fibre is a valuable source of nutrients for beneficial digestive bacteria and also reduces blood sugar fluctuations and regulates cholesterol levels.
  • Insoluble fiber facilitates the passage of food and impurities through the intestine. It is also associated with reducing the risk of diabetes.

Soluble and insoluble fibre from hemp seeds helps to keep the digestive system in good condition and prevents a number of common ailments such as constipation, stomach ulcers and haemorrhoids.

6. Supporting brain function

The ratio of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seeds is ideal in terms of nutritional value. This ratio contributes to both heart health and improved cognitive function. Omega-3 fatty acids such as ALA have been shown to have neuroprotective properties, so hemp seeds support brain function.

7. Relief from joint pain and arthritis

Research has shown that hemp seeds and hemp oil can relieve the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis. Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune disease. It causes the immune system to attack its own tissues, causing joint inflammation. A 2014 research conducted on human cells showed that hemp oil has anti-rheumatic effects that may help patients suffering from symptoms of this disease.

Include hemp seeds in your diet

Hemp seeds are rich in nutritional properties. They contain high levels of antioxidants, fatty acids, minerals and vitamins. They are incredibly healthy and one of the few superfoods that truly deserve their reputation. Incorporating hemp seeds into your diet is easy. You can add them to your smoothie or porridge. While much research suggests that hemp seeds have many health benefits, more research is still needed to understand what other benefits they may have.

Don't hesitate to include hemp seeds in your diet. You can buy them from our e-shop, so don't wait, add them to your basket and have them delivered to your home.