Hemp seed benefits your health!

As wellness enthusiasts increasingly seek natural solutions to boost their health, the term "superfood" is frequently thrown around. But what makes a food "super"? Superfoods generally pack a significant nutritional punch, offering a rich concentration of vitamins, minerals, healthy fats, or antioxidants. Hemp seed, often hailed as a superfood, has gained popularity for its remarkable nutrient profile and versatility. Below, we dive into the top four reasons why hemp seed has rightfully earned its place in the superfood hall of fame.

Hemp Seed: What Is It?

Hemp seeds come from the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa, and have been cultivated for thousands of years for food, fibre, and medicinal uses. Despite their association with cannabis, hemp seeds contain only trace amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the compound responsible for cannabis's psychoactive effects. In fact, hemp seeds are entirely safe and legal to consume and offer impressive nutritional value that distinguishes them from other plant foods.

These small, round seeds are packed with vital nutrients that contribute to their superfood status. Hemp seed benefits include a complete protein profile, healthy fats, and an array of vitamins and minerals. They also have a mild, nutty flavour and can be enjoyed in various forms, including raw, roasted, or as part of hemp-based products like hemp seed oil and hemp protein powder.

4 reasons why hemp seed is considered a super food

1. A Rich Source of Complete Protein

Hemp seeds are one of the rare plant-based sources of complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce on their own. This feature is particularly beneficial for individuals who follow a plant-based diet, as many non-animal protein sources lack one or more of these essential amino acids.

In fact, hemp seeds contain approximately 25% protein by weight, making them comparable to higher-protein animal sources. This protein is also highly digestible due to the presence of edestin and albumin, two proteins that are more readily absorbed by the body than other plant-based proteins like soy. Edestin, in particular, closely resembles the proteins found in human blood plasma, which may help explain its high bioavailability.

Incorporating hemp seed into your diet, whether by adding it to smoothies, salads, or even baked goods, can be a valuable way to increase your protein intake, particularly if you’re looking to support muscle repair, immune function, or overall cellular health.

2. Rich in Omega Fatty Acids for Heart Health

One of the standout hemp seed benefits is its impressive profile of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. While omega-3s are commonly found in fish and other marine sources, hemp seeds provide an excellent plant-based source. Hemp seeds contain the ideal 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids, a balance that has been shown to support heart health, reduce inflammation, and improve overall cardiovascular function.

Unlike other plant oils that often contain primarily omega-6 fatty acids, the balanced fatty acid ratio in hemp seeds is beneficial because it prevents excessive omega-6 intake, which can lead to inflammatory responses in the body. The primary omega-3 found in hemp seeds is alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which the body can convert into more active forms like EPA and DHA, commonly found in fish oil. These fatty acids support everything from maintaining healthy cholesterol levels to promoting skin health and potentially easing joint discomfort.

Adding a tablespoon of hemp seeds to your diet each day can be a simple, plant-based way to enhance your omega-3 intake, especially for those who are vegan or vegetarian and might find it challenging to get sufficient omega-3s from their diet alone.

3. Loaded with Vital Vitamins and Minerals

Hemp seeds contain a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals, contributing significantly to hemp seed nutritional value. Here’s a breakdown of some of the key micronutrients found in hemp seeds and their roles in our health:

- Magnesium: Essential for muscle and nerve function, magnesium is also crucial for maintaining a regular heart rhythm and supporting bone health. A single serving of hemp seeds contains around 48% of the recommended daily intake of magnesium, making them an excellent source for those who may struggle to meet their needs through diet alone.

- Iron: Hemp seeds contain a modest amount of iron, which is essential for creating heamoglobin and transporting oxygen throughout the body. For those who may be at risk of iron deficiency, such as vegans, adding hemp seeds to the diet can be a helpful way to boost iron intake naturally.

- Zinc: Important for immune function and DNA synthesis, zinc is another mineral commonly found in hemp seeds. Adequate zinc levels can help support a healthy immune response, wound healing, and proper cellular function.

- Vitamin E: Known for its antioxidant properties, vitamin E helps combat oxidative stress and may support skin health. The vitamin E in hemp seeds is especially beneficial for skin hydration, as it works synergistically with the omega fatty acids to support skin barrier function.

Hemp seeds’ nutrient density makes them a convenient, compact source of essential vitamins and minerals, helping to fill in dietary gaps and contributing to overall wellness.

4. High in Antioxidants for Cellular Protection

Hemp seeds are rich in polyphenols and tocopherols, two types of antioxidants that help protect the body against oxidative stress. Oxidative stress occurs when there is an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, which can damage cells and is associated with a variety of chronic conditions, including heart disease and aging.

The antioxidant compounds in hemp seeds, such as tocopherols (a form of vitamin E) and polyphenols, help neutralise free radicals, potentially reducing the risk of chronic diseases and promoting healthy aging. This cellular protection can be particularly valuable as we age, given that oxidative damage accumulates over time and can lead to more noticeable impacts on our health.

Antioxidants also play a role in supporting immune function and enhancing the body’s natural defense mechanisms. By incorporating hemp seeds into a balanced diet, you can help support your body’s resilience against the impacts of environmental stressors and promote long-term cellular health.

Tips for Adding Hemp Seeds to Your Diet

Hemp seeds have a mild, nutty flavour that pairs well with many foods, making them easy to integrate into daily meals. Here are some simple ways to incorporate hemp seeds into your diet:

- Smoothies: Add a tablespoon of hemp seeds to your morning smoothie for a boost of protein and omega-3s.
- Salads: Sprinkle hemp seeds over salads for added texture, flavor, and nutritional value.
- Baking: Add them to muffins, cookies, and bread for extra nutrients.
- Oatmeal and Yogurt: Stir hemp seeds into oatmeal, yogurt, or porridge for a protein-packed start to the day.

Check out these hemp seed recipes for more inspiration! 

The Takeaway

Hemp seeds have earned their superfood status for good reason. From their complete protein profile and heart-healthy fats to a variety of essential vitamins and minerals, these seeds offer a broad spectrum of nutrients that can benefit nearly every aspect of your health. Additionally, their antioxidant content provides a layer of cellular protection that supports overall wellness, particularly as we age.

For anyone looking to add a nutrient-dense, plant-based food to their diet, hemp seeds are a versatile, accessible, and sustainable choice. Whether you’re sprinkling them on your salad, blending them into smoothies, or simply enjoying them as a snack, hemp seeds offer a natural way to nourish your body and support your wellness journey.

Embrace the benefits of hemp seeds today and enjoy the natural advantages of this amazing superfood!