What are hemp seeds? They're tiny little nutty-flavored bites that pack a punch with their nutritional value. Hemp seeds have been eaten for centuries and in many cultures, including China, India, and Egypt. Nowadays, they can be found at most grocery stores or health food stores. If you haven't tried them before, here's why it's worth your time to do so.
Hemp seeds are one of the most complete and easy-to-digest sources of protein available on earth. They contain all 20 amino acids, along with essential fatty acids that our bodies cannot produce. This means we must obtain them from food sources such as hemp seeds.
One ounce of hemp seeds contains 10 grams of protein, which is 40% more than the same amount of ground beef. This is great for those who have trouble digesting meat or are looking to cut down on their meat intake. Hemp seeds also contain lots of fiber and healthy fats, both of which help keep you feeling full and satiated between meals.
Because hemp seeds contain a healthy balance of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, they can lower cholesterol levels in your body, which reduces your risk for heart disease and stroke. In addition, all those little protein bits pack a big punch of health benefits by helping grow muscle tissue in the body and increase stamina and energy levels.
Protein isn't all hemp seeds have to offer. They also contain good amounts of fiber and minerals such as phosphorus, calcium, potassium, iron, magnesium, and zinc.
The primary reason most people want to buy hemp seeds is for their health benefits. Though the idea of eating a pot seed may seem strange at first glance, the little protein and fatty acid powerhouses can help keep you feeling full and energized longer than many other foods. In addition, hemp seeds are low in calories and rich in fiber. One tablespoon of hemp seeds contains about 160 calories, while the same amount of peanut butter contains 200. As well as being very high in protein, hemp seeds are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids which help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk for heart disease and stroke.
Hemp seeds contain a nice 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 essential fatty acids necessary for brain function and reducing inflammation. The best diet is one that has an equal amount of both types of fats. Our modern diets tend to have more omega-6 than 3 in them, so hemp seeds can help balance that out.
If you are looking to reduce inflammation, hemp seeds also contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which can help lower inflammation and improve skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis. The best part about this is that GLA does not create an imbalance of the two essential fatty acids in your body-- rather, it compliments them. This means your body can utilize it better.
Hemp seeds also contain good amounts of fiber, which helps with your overall digestion and elimination. Fiber tends to soak up extra water in the intestines, increasing its bulk and softening stools, so they are easier to pass through the system. This is ideal for those who suffer from constipation.
One of the greatest qualities of hemp seeds is that they are gluten-free. Many people have trouble digesting wheat and other types of gluten grains, so they need to cut them out from their diet, which can be difficult. Hemp seeds are also vegan-friendly in case you're searching for healthy alternatives to meat products.
Okay, so this one isn't quite as healthy for you since it involves removing the healthful oils from the seeds! However, if you want to get a taste of hemp seed goodness in a milk-like beverage, try juicing your hemp seeds with water and straining out the pulp. This tasty treat can be enjoyed straight or used in smoothies.
For those who are lactose-intolerant, hemp seed milk is a great alternative to oatmeal or other hot cereals before bed since it's high in tryptophan, an amino acid that naturally reduces anxiety and depression. It also contains vitamin B complex, which helps boost your metabolism and gives you energy during the day.
Finally, hemp seeds contain zinc and vitamin E, both of which can help improve your skin condition and keep it looking young. Vitamin E is known for protecting your skin from the sun, and zinc is a natural anti-inflammatory that can be used to reduce acne, eczema, and other similar conditions.
Hemp seeds are small and easy to add to your diet. Whether you put them in a smoothie, take them with water after a workout or sprinkle them on top of salads, they go down easily and aren't very noticeable in any way. In addition, hemp seed milk is a great option for those who are lactose-intolerant. Another great option is to add hemp seeds into your morning oatmeal or mix them in with a bowl of warm cereal like granola.
Hemp seeds are valuable health foods that can help improve your well-being. They contain essential omega-3 fatty acids and protein, which makes them great for vegetarians looking to increase their protein intake. They also provide high amounts of fiber and zinc, two nutrients vital for keeping the body healthy and running smoothly.
This article has provided you with informative information on hemp seeds and the benefits of including them in your diet. It is important to remember that hemp seeds, even though they are nutritious, do not make up for an unhealthy lifestyle. It is still important to consume a balanced diet and lead an active lifestyle.