Seeds are the smallest superfood on this planet. We come across a different variety of seeds in Indian kitchen such as pumpkin seed, flaxseed, sunflower seed, hemp seed, etc. They all are packed with beneficial nutrient and is been in use since ages.
Hemp seed is one among this nutritious superfood. It has a mild nutty flavor which puts it technically in seed cum nut category. Although hemp seeds come from a variety of cannabis plant it does not show mind-altering properties as proved by many studies.
They are rich in omega-3s and omega-6s fatty acids and are rich in antioxidants too. In this article, we will let you know about the nutritional value of hemp seeds which may be unknown to you.
Nutrient packed inside hemp seeds
The hemp plant is often confused with marijuana but the fact is it is one of the plants from cannabis family but is not the same as marijuana. Packed with nutrition, these seeds have much more inside it than we know. Some of the nutrients inside it are:
- These small brown seeds are rich in protein which helps in building tissue of our body.
- Hemp seeds are packed with fiber which makes it digestible.
- They are also a rich source of potassium and magnesium.
- They are one of the essential sources of omega fatty acids.
- Hemp seeds have vitamin E and vitamin B6.
- They are also a rich source of zinc and iron.
Benefits of hemp for your health
All the seeds in Indian kitchen are packed with various health advantages. Packed with nutrition hemp seeds are not just seeds, they are nuts as well so have double benefits of seeds and nuts. Let us dig deep to know about the various health benefits of hemp seeds:
Heart health
Hemp seeds contain omega-3 which is known for improving heart health. It also has a high amount of amino acid which produces nitric oxide when enters your body. Nitric oxide helps relax blood vessels lowering down the blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart diseases. It is also considered as a recovery food after a heart attack.
Brain health
Hemp seeds are rich in antioxidants and compounds which are neuro-protective, and anti-inflammatory in nature. So they are helpful for people having a neurological disorder like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s disease, seizures, etc.
Digestive health
The seeds from hemp plants are high in fiber content which aids digestion and eases bowel movement. They contain both soluble and insoluble fiber so helpful in preventing and curing constipation. It is one good source of nutrient to beneficial bacteria which regulates blood sugar and cholesterol level.
Also read: Why Drinking Tulsi Milk Is Good For Your Overall Health?
Skin health
If you don’t know the fact of co-relation of the immune system with skin. Let us tell you that healthy skin demands a healthy immune system. Hemp seeds contain omega 3 and 6 fatty acid which maintains the immune system resulting in healthy skin. It is also helpful in improving blood circulation for people suffering from eczema. It also gives relief from dry skin, itchiness, and other skin disorder.
Women’s health
You will not believe that hemp seeds are used since ancient times for healthy reproductive health of women. It relieves menstruation pain and other syndromes related to it. It is also helpful for women who are at a stage of menopause. Hemp seeds balance hormonal issue and prevent many PMS (post-menopause syndrome) like breast pain, tenderness, irritability, and depression.
Other benefits
Hemp seeds contain many compounds which can deal with multiple diseases. Its anti-inflammatory properties help in managing various chronic diseases like diabetes, arthritis, heart diseases, metabolic syndrome, etc.
How to add hemp seeds to your diet?
Hemp seeds have more health benefits than any other edible seeds on this planet. So adding them to your diet can have a profound effect on your health and life. Here are some ways through which you can reap the benefits of hemp seeds:
- Directly add whole or ground seeds in your yogurt or cereal.
- You can also add hemp seeds to the grinding smoothies.
- You can bake your dish and desserts with hemp seeds.
- Whole seeds of hemp can be made into hemp milk.
- Adding hemp seeds to salad and nut bowl directly.
Read more on Healthy Diet