Most people have misconceptions about the difference between hemp and marijuana. While there are differences between the two plants, they are more similar than you think. Hemp and marijuana are both variants of the cannabis plant, with the only difference between them being the concentration of the psychoactive compound THC, which they contain. Hemp plants are cannabis plants with less than 0.3% THC meaning you will find it challenging to get high off hemp. Marijuana, on the other hand, contains more than 0.3% THC and is the variant of cannabis you want if you plan on getting high.
While marijuana is mainly grown for its THC content either to be consumed recreationally or for medical purposes, hemp is usually grown for by-products such as CBD, paper, and textiles. Cannabis seeds can also serve as a dietary supplement due to their high protein and fiber content. Unlike marijuana which can only be grown legally in some states, hemp growth and hemp-derived products are legal throughout the US. Here are the super benefits of hemp seeds:
1. Hemp seeds are packed with nutrients
Hemp seeds are technically nuts and are incredibly nutritious. Hemp seeds are a great source of healthy proteins with almost as much protein as soybeans. In fact, hemp seeds are made up of about 30% protein. You can get all your essential amino acids from hemp seeds, as they contain all nine. Although crucial for proper development, these amino acids are not produced by the body, and you have to turn to complete protein sources for them. Only a few foods, hemp seeds included, contain these essential amino acids.
Hemp seeds are a great source of healthy unsaturated fat, specifically omega-3, which most fatty foods do not contain. The body’s balance of omega-6 and omega-6 is important. Most fatty foods, however, only contain omega-6 fatty acids. Hemp seeds also contain vitamins and nutrients.
2. Hemp seeds help your heart stay healthy
Heart-related conditions kill more people worldwide than any other disease, and some of the compounds present in hemp seeds can help improve the heart’s health. Nitric oxide, produced by arginine, one of the essential amino acids in hemp seeds, helps regulate blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart diseases.
3. Hemp seeds are good for your skin.
The high concentration of omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seeds helps protect your skin, prevent dry skin, and help people with eczema with blood circulation. The deficiency of omega-3 has been linked with acne, making the consumption of hemp seeds a great way of dealing with the outbreak of acne. The high fiber content of hemp seeds also helps with skin inflammation and atopic dermatitis.
4. Hemp seeds can help reduce inflammation.
Hemp seeds have a healthy omega-3 to omega-6 ratio, making them ideal for treating inflammation. Gamma linoleic acid, which is contained in hemp seeds, has anti-inflammatory properties. Although the effects of gamma-linolenic acid on inflammation are not consistent across all humans, some studies have revealed that they are effective in some cases.
5. Hemp seeds can help you digest food properly.
Hemp seeds have a high concentration of fiber, which is beneficial to digestion. They are a great source of both soluble and insoluble fibers. Soluble fibers help the growth of healthy bacteria in your gut which break down food and help to regulate blood sugar levels. On the other hand, Insoluble fiber assists the excretory process and has been linked to reducing the risk of diabetes. It should, however, be noted that most of the fiber in hemp seeds is contained in the husk, and you won’t get any significant amount of fiber from de-shelled hemp seeds.
6. Hemp seeds can help to protect your brain
Hemp seeds have been found to have some antioxidant properties. This is most likely due to their CBD content. Research on CBD has revealed that it has neuroprotective and anti-inflammatory properties, making it helpful in preventing conditions like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s diseases.
7. Hemp seeds can help you manage your weight
Hemp seeds can not only help you lose weight but also gain weight. They contain several vitamins as well as fiber which can help you lose weight. Like other nuts, they also keep you feeling fuller for longer, enabling you to manage the amount of food you consume.
Conversely, hemp seeds are great for building weight due to their high calorie and protein concentration. Combined with an excellent muscle-building program, hemp seeds will help you bulk up in no time.
8. Hemp seeds are good for your general health
Hemp seeds are one of the most nutritionally complete foods you can find. They contain all of the amino acids necessary for your survival, a feat that only a few other plant-based foods can boast of. They also have a lot of vitamins, minerals, and compounds that promote overall well-being. Their ability to protect the brain and the body, combined with their nutritional composition, cement their status as a superfood.
How to add hemp seeds to your diet
There are a variety of forms of hemp seeds that You can consume. Cooked, raw, roasted, served as toppings? You name it! One good thing about the hemp seed is that you can profitably utilize every form of it. You can consume hemp seeds in the following variations.
- Hulled hemp seed: These are also referred to as hemp heart seeds and are acquired by pounding the seeds out of their shells. After pounding, they are dumped in water and allowed to settle with the hulls on top of the water. These are then poured out, and the seeds are allowed to dry. The removed hulls are not useless and are a great source of fiber.
- Raw organic hemp seeds: These are hemp seeds grown naturally without artificial aids. Raw organic hemp seeds are rich in omega fatty acids and are crunchy. They are non-genetically modified, kosher, vegan, and suitable for keto feeding.
- Toasted hemp seeds: These hemp seeds are fried after being drained and dried. They are rich in antioxidants and fatty acids.
- Whole hemp seeds: This hemp seed is unprocessed, so it is still contained in its hulls. It has all its nutritional constituents intact and it is stable under various conditions.
- Hemp seed oils: Hemp oil, which is very good for the skin, can be squeezed out of hemp seeds.
Conclusion
Hemp seeds are packed with nutrients and are well deserving of the superfood label. Combined with their medicinal benefits, they are a great addition to any diet. It should, however, be noted that while they contain minimal THC, this may be a problem for overly sensitive people. They may also be unsuitable for athletes who have to undergo doping tests. Reach out to Highway420 today for your cannabis seeds.