Changing lifestyles and the lack of time has led to severely compromised diets. Consequently, globally, there is an increasing need for nutritional supplements to make up for the gap in nutrient intake. Individuals are also looking at dietary modifications to close this gap. More and more individuals across the globe are looking at supplements beyond the traditional protein powders. Hemp, inflorescence and similar options are finding more favor, though the classification of hemp as part of the cannabis family has had an impact on acceptance. The following sub sections focus on possible hemp seeds side effects and the benefits of the seeds as a supplement to boost daily nutrition.
Why are hemp and inflorescence considered as a nutritional supplement?
Most individuals tend to consider or dismiss hemp and inflorescence are intoxicating substances with no other value in terms of health. However, it is incorrect to conclude that hemp and inflorescence are mere intoxicating products. Hemp is a biological active cannabinoid, and an abundant source of nonpsychoactive cannabinoids. The outstanding characteristics of hemp seeds include proven anticonvulsant, anxiolytic and spasmolytic properties. Additionally, hemp seeds also contain essential fatty acids, vitamins, amino acids, minerals and fibers. To top it all hemp seeds are delicious to taste, making it a preferred choice among individuals who have tried out the seeds. The polyunsaturated fats and amino acids give hemp seeds properties that make it a good choice.
What are the overall benefits of hemp seeds?
The overall benefits of hemp seeds include possible positive outcomes in patients diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases. Similarly, individuals with inflammatory conditions and cancer are also likely to experience relief. The downside or the perceived downside to the seeds is the apprehension of mind-altering properties of the seeds. However, this is a wrong perception, as hemp seeds when consumed as nutritional supplements have no intoxicating properties that could result in addiction.
Nutrient profile of the seeds
The nutrient intake from hemp seeds is impressive and explains the reason behind the growing interest among users who are aware of the benefits. The following points highlight the nutrition available in every serving of hemp seeds (three table spoons) :
- Proteins – 9 gms
- Fat – 1.2 gms
- Carbohydrates – 2.6 gms
- Fatty acids – 14.5 gms
- Polyunsaturated fat – 11.4 gms
- Monounsaturated fatty acids – 1.6 gms
- Saturated fatty acids – 1.3 gms
And, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants in rich supply
The link between the above nutrients and health
The benefits of hemp seeds are clearly linked to the above properties and nutrients. Here is a look at the benefits from nutrients and the impact on various health conditions. It is essential to know that hemp seeds and all other forms of supplements are intended to be part of a holistic healing or health improving regimen. Supplements and natural remedies are not to be regarded as an alternative medications and prescription formulations.
Impact on heart – The nine amnio acids in the hemp seeds are known to have a considerable impact on hear health. The striking difference between hemp seeds and other nutritional supplements is the high amount of proteins available in small servings. For every serving of 30 grams, it is possible to get close to one third of the total weight in proteins. This puts it at par with soybean, enjoys the reputation as one of the richest sources of protein from plants/vegetables. Meat is a good source of protein and amino acids, but very few plants have the distinction of delivering all nine amino acids. Arginine is responsible for boosting and preventing heart health complications, and hemp seeds as good source of all amino acids helps improve heart health. Additionally, hemp seeds are an abundant source of antioxidants and this makes it a powerful option for boosting health and preventing various health conditions linked to oxidation.
Impact on guts – As a rich source of fiber, hemp seeds deliver impressive outcomes in improving gut health. The outer shell of hemp seeds contains most of the fiber, with studies showing that 1.2 grams of fiber are available in every single spoon hemp seeds. Fiber is an essential ingredient in weight control programs and is necessary to curb appetite. Fiber has the quality of creating a full feeling, which will prevent the individuals from binge eating or overeating.
Fiber delivers additional benefits, including control of blood glucose levels. This makes hemp seeds a good choice for diabetics. Digestive health also depends on motility, and fiber possesses a bulking property which helps improve motility. Gut health is linked to fiber intake and many health conditions are the outcome of poor gut health. Hemp seeds are an important ingredient to improve gut health, which will, in turn, either prevent health conditions or help in managing the condition better.
Unsaturated fat – Essential fatty acids are supplied to the body only through dietary intake and the body does not produce the fatty acids. Hemp seeds are a rich source of alpha-linoleic acid (ALA) in omega-3 fatty acids; additionally, it is necessary to note that omega-3 and omega-6 are required to be taken in the right proportions. Hemp seeds are a good option to help achieve the right balance. Hemp seeds do not contain trans fats and this makes it a healthy choice as trans-fat is considered unhealthy. Various dietary substances and ingredients are responsible for good health, and long-term intake of certain substances are known to help individuals achieve and maintain good health. This includes polyunsaturated fats.
Impact on health of the brain – Hemps seeds possess anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective properties and this is known to help manage neurological conditions. Various age-related conditions of a degenerative nature such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s all belong to the same category, making hemp seeds a good choice for holistic treatment of the elderly. Properties that help it manage neuropathic pain also make it a good option as part of therapeutic use. Neurological conditions and management are strongly linked to antioxidant properties of medications, and the antioxidants in hemp seeds make it a powerful choice in managing the conditions.
Inflammatory conditions – Anti-inflammatory properties of hemp seeds make it a preferred choice to help manage certain conditions. Gamma linoleic acid (GLA) in the seeds helps manage inflammation, and this helps patients considerably. Inflammation contributes to type 2 diabetes, heart diseases, metabolic syndrome, liver disease and arthritis; and the use of hemp seeds at the right time helps in preventing the conditions from aggravating. As outlined earlier, Omega-3 and omega-6 is to be taken in the right proportion, and the hemp seeds help strike the right balance, thereby helping improve specific health conditions.
Atopic dermatitis and acne – In addition to the above-mentioned conditions, hemp seeds are also effective options for treating skin conditions including acne and atopic dermatitis. A common link between these skin conditions and the health conditions above, is the inflammation that is responsible for the conditions. The anti-inflammatory properties, omega-3 and fiber help deliver desired outcomes from the seeds.
Rheumatoid arthritis – The autoimmune condition, rheumatoid arthritis results in symptoms as a result of inflammation of the joints. This causes considerable discomfort on the ability of the individual to move around or carryout routine tasks. Hemp seeds possess anti-inflammatory properties which work in combination with other treatment options, to help alleviate the discomfort, and improve mobility among patients with the condition.
Commonly reported hemp seeds side effects
The seeds as mentioned above, deliver impressive health benefits, making it a good choice for use as a nutritional supplement and also for managing specific health conditions. However, it is not free from possible adverse outcomes, and it is important to learn all about the possible outcomes, so as to prevent and mitigate hemp seeds side effects. While the seeds are relatively safe and do not pose health risk to most users, it is necessary to intake the seeds in moderation.
Doping requirements in sports – One of the dangers of procuring hemp seeds from unreliable sources is the possibility of getting penalized in doping tests in sports. While hemp seeds do not contain ingredients or substances that make it a banned substance, the manner in which it is processed can result in cross-contamination. Suppliers or manufacturers with facilities for both products may end up creating a product that is unsafe for use by sporting personalities. A higher THC content could result in the individual being barred from sports, that decree mandatory tests.
Typically, the safe levels of THC are 0.3 percent or lower, and substances that contain more than 0.3 percent are banned in the US. Individuals who are either into professional sports or events that involve dope testing are advised to seek medical opinion and also choose product that is safe and free from the risk of higher THC content.
Increased fat levels – Individuals who consume excessive quantities of hemp seeds are likely to end up with bouts of diarrhea as a result of the increased fat intake. This may be experienced by users who either have lesser tolerance levels, or those who consume hem seeds along with other products or ingredients have high fat content. It is important to ensure that the total fat intake is within the recommended daily average limits, to prevent effects, despite the mild or moderate nature.
Drug interactions – Hemp seeds may also interact with drugs and this may trigger undesirable effects. Interactions are possible when the mechanism of action of on substance causes an impact on the desired outcome from another medication or supplement. Blood thinners and anticoagulants are not to be taken alongside the seeds as this could result in adverse reactions. Individuals are to seek medical advice about the use of hemp seeds along with the above medications that are considered as critical in nature.
Impact on pregnant women – Studies are typically conducted on the effects of supplements on various users and this is documented to understand ow the substance may affect individuals. However, hemp the effect of hemp seeds on pregnant women have not been studied as of date, and it is therefore unsafe for pregnant women and nursing mothers to consume the seeds. Till suitable studies confirm that the seeds are safe, it is best to stay away from the seeds considering the relatively lesser importance of the seeds when compared with the health of the infant.
Education: Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD) from the University of Florida. Experience: 5 years as a pharmacist and medical writer, creating content on medication management and pharmaceutical news for healthcare blogs and patient education sites.
