Discover the nutritional benefits of hemp seeds

Hemp seeds are small, brown seeds that are rich in protein, fibre, and healthful fatty acids, including omega-3s and omega-6s. They are often sprinkled on foods, added to smoothies, pressed for oil, ground into protein powder and made into milk.

According to Dr Axe of Food is Medicine, for a long time, hemp seeds were ignored for their nutritional benefits because of hemp’s botanical relationship to medicinal varieties of cannabis. However, hemp seeds don’t cause any psychotropic reactions and instead may provide significant health benefits because of hemp’s unique nutritional profile.

These seeds are rich in nutrients and have antioxidant effects that may reduce symptoms of numerous ailments, improving the health of the heart, skin, and joints.

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Protein

These seeds are a complete source of protein, meaning that they provide all nine essential amino acids. Hemp seeds are especially rich in an amino acid called arginine, which has benefits for heart health.

Amino acids are the building blocks for all proteins. The body cannot produce nine of these acids, so a person must absorb them through the diet.

Relatively few plant-based foods are complete sources of protein, making hemp seeds a valuable addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet.

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Unsaturated fats

The body cannot produce essential fatty acids, and the body must absorb them from the diet. They are crucial for long-term health. Hemp seeds are a great source of essential fatty acids, such as alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is an omega-3.

Fiber

Much of the fiber in a hemp seed lies in its outer hull, or shell. If possible, purchase hemp seeds with the hulls intact. However, even without the shells, hemp seeds are a good source of fiber, with three tablespoons containing approximately 1.2 g of fibre.

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Vitamins and minerals 

Hemp seeds contain an impressive array of vitamins and minerals and are especially rich in:

• vitamin E
• magnesium
• phosphorous
• potassium

They are also a good source of iron, zinc, and B vitamins, including:

• niacin
• riboflavin
• thiamine
• vitamin B-6
• folate

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