Globally there is a change in perception towards the need for better dietary practices and health. More and more individuals are taking to health supplements, in addition to dietary modifications. The search for nutritional supplements has moved beyond the traditional protein powders to other non-traditional sources. This includes the hemp and inflorescence. Despite the various promising health benefits of hemp, its classification as part of the cannabis family triggers apprehensions in the minds of potential users. Here is a detailed look at the nutritional profile, benefits and hemp seeds side effects to help users learn all about the new nutritional supplement in stores.
Overview of hemp and inflorescence
Rich in nonpsychoactive cannabinoids, hemp seeds possess multiple properties that make it a good supplement. It is a biologically active cannabinoid, with proven anticonvulsant properties. Additionally, it is also known for the anxiolytic and spasmolytic properties that merit its use. A rich source of essential fatty acids apart from fibers, the seeds also come with a pleasant taste that make it palatable. It is also loaded with vitamins, amino acids and minerals. Most of the effects of hemp and extracts of hemp are attributed to the polyunsaturated fats and the amino acids in the proteins edestin, albumin.
Standout effects of the supplement include potential positive outcomes in patients with cardiovascular diseases, various inflammatory conditions and cancer. One of the most common possible misconceptions about hemp in nutritional supplement form is the link to cannabis and by extension the possible effects on the minds. However, it is a fact that hemp in nutritional supplement form does not produce any effect commonly attributed to intoxicants in various forms.
Nutrients in hemp seeds
The nutrients in a typical serving of 3 tablespoons of the seeds include an average of approximately 9.4 grams of protein, 1.2 grams of fat, 2.6 grams of carbohydrates, 14.6 grams of fatty acids, 11.4 grams of polyunsaturated fat, 1.6 grams of monounsaturated fatty acids, and 1.3 grams of saturated fatty acids, in addition to the presence of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.
Top benefits of hemp seeds
#1 Effect of amino acids and protein on heart health
As outlined above, hemp seeds possess exceptional nutritional profile and the antioxidants help combat various common conditions experienced by individuals. Here is a good look at the benefits from the seeds. Rich in proteins, hemp seeds provide all the nine amino acids that are possible through dietary intake. Individuals can get almost 10 grams of proteins from a small serving of 30 grams of hemp seeds. This effectively matches the protein available from soybeans, that are regarded as one of the most abundant sources of protein.
Additionally, hemp seeds come with the added benefit of providing all the nine amino acids from plant sources. While meat and other sources of protein are also regarded as complete, with all the nine amino acids, very few plant sources match the amount of protein or have the “complete protein” tag. The arginine in hemp seeds helps improve health benefits for individuals diagnosed with heart conditions.
#2 Effect of fiber in weight control programs and improvements in gut health
Hemp seeds are abundant in fiber content, with most of the fiber present on the outer shell. Every single spoon of hemp seed can deliver as much as 1.2 grams of fiber, and this can deliver multiple benefits. For instance, adequate consumption of fiber can have a desired effect on appetite and help individuals in weight control programs. Additionally, increased intake of fiber is also known to help have an impact on blood glucose levels, thereby helping patients with diabetes. Finally, fiber is linked to the health of the gut, and poor gut health is one of the reasons for various conditions. the seeds help improve gut health, and consequently, improve or mitigate various health conditions. The seeds can act as a bulking agent and this will help improve digestive health of users significantly.
#3 Effect of unsaturated fats on overall health
Polyunsaturated fats have proven health benefits that impact long term and overall health. Most individuals are aware of the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids. One of the omega-3 fatty acids is alpha-linoleic acid (ALA), and the seeds an abundant source of ALA. This makes it an important nutritional supplement that needs to be included in diets. This is all the more important considering the fact that essential fatty acids can only be supplied through diet and the body does not possess the capability to make the essential fatty acids. Advantages of the seeds include the low saturated fats content and the absence of trans fats, that are considered as unhealthy in diets. Another advantage in favor of hemp seeds is the need for maintaining the right balance of omega-3 and omega-6 in dietary intake. The right amount of hemp seeds in diets will help strike the right balance and help improve overall health.
#4 Effect of antioxidants on brain health
As outlined earlier, hemp seeds are rich in antioxidants, which are in turn known to have a strong impact on patients with neurological conditions. Various properties attributed to the seeds include anti-inflammatory properties and neuroprotective properties from the compounds present in the seeds. Consequently, studies have suggested that the seed could have positive impact on individuals grappling with certain neurological conditions, including age-related degenerative conditions such as Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. Additionally, the seeds are also known to be effective in helping manage neuropathic pain.
#5 Impact on conditions caused by inflammation
Hemp seeds, as highlighted earlier, possess anti-inflammatory properties and this makes the seeds effective in helping manage various conditions that are caused by inflammation. The presence of GLA, acronym for gamma linoleic acid, also helps deal with inflammation, in addition to the right balance of amega-3 and omega-6. Inflammation is known to aggravate various health conditions including type 2 diabetes and arthritis. By exerting anti-inflammatory effects, hemp seeds help in managing the conditions effectively, thereby helping in treatment outcomes. Other conditions that are aggravated through inflammation include heart diseases, metabolic syndrome and liver disease.
#6 Impact on skin
The seeds also help manage various skin conditions. For instance, acne and atopic dermatitis are common skin conditions experienced by a large number of individuals. These conditions are also linked to inflammation, and the anti-inflammatory properties of hemp seeds help in dealing with the conditions effectively. Additionally, intake of omega-3 is also known to have an impact on acne. Similarly, plant fiber is also regarded as an effective option in the holistic treatment of atopic dermatitis. As the seeds are a rich source of fiber, there are possible positive effects consistent with studies.
#7 Possible effect on rheumatoid arthritis
The anti-inflammatory properties of the seeds can have a possible positive effect on individuals with rheumatoid arthritis. The condition, which is effectively an autoimmune condition, results in the joint inflammation. This has an impact on mobility and routines. The anti-inflammatory properties of the seeds can help manage the conditions better, and when used in conjunction with other treatment options, can helped achieve desired outcomes and improve the quality of life of patients.
Possible hemp seeds side effects
With all the benefits profiled in detail above, it is time to look at the possibility of adverse effects. Hemp seeds are considered as relatively safe without any serious effects. However, consumption in moderation is always the best way to keep out the possibility of hemp seeds side effects.
#1 Possible impact on dope tests
Hemp seeds do not typically contain THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), an ingredient that give cannabis its primary properties. However, wherever hemp extract is processed in an unsafe manner or cross-contaminated with cannabis, there is the possibility of higher THC content in extracts of hemp. This will make hemp products unsuitable for athletes and professional sportspersons who may require to undergo mandatory dope tests. Higher level of THC in urine samples will result in a failed dope test, and it is therefore important for athletes to exercise caution. Though in the US, concentrations above 0.3 percent of THC are banned, it would still be a safer option to avoid or to choose the right product from a tested or reputed manufacturer.
#2 Possible diarrhea or nausea from excessive fat intake
As hemp seeds possess high levels of fat acids, it is likely that individuals with less tolerance levels may experience nausea or diarrhea. This is possible when there is excessive intake of hemp seeds, especially when other dietary sources contain fat. When the total fat intake crosses reasonable or necessary limits, there is a possibility of the hemp seeds side effects.
#3 Possible interactions with medications
The mechanism of action of medications may result in an interaction when taken together with hemp seeds. For instance, medications such as blood thinners or anticoagulants, may interact with the seeds. The seeds are known to have an impact on blood clotting effect, which can in turn result in more than desired outcomes from blood thinners. It is therefore necessary for individuals on prescription blood thinners to seek medical advice about the parallel use of hemp seeds as nutritional supplements.
#4 Absence of information on effects on pregnant women
Studies have not been conducted on pregnant women to determine the effects, if any, as a result of consumption of hemp seeds. It is therefore important to avoid intake of the seeds during pregnancy or breastfeeding. This is important till the time studies are conducted and the actual effects are compiled. The desired outcomes of nutritional supplements including hemp seeds are relatively lesser in importance when compared with the need for maintaining proper health during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
Education: Master’s in Nursing (MSN) from Johns Hopkins University. Experience: 7 years writing for online health portals and nursing journals, specializing in patient education and chronic illness management.
