Tiny but packed with nutrients and health benefits, hemp hearts are without a doubt an excellent addition to your diet.
Most people have heard of hemp seeds before but not necessarily hemp hearts.
What’s the difference between hemp seeds vs hemp hearts?
Hemp hearts have had the hard-outer shell removed.
Removing the shell increases the overall percentage of protein and essential fatty acids, making hemp hearts an even more concentrated source of nutrients and makes them easier to digest.
They are quickly becoming the next “it” item in the realm of plant-based superfoods. Hemp hearts and many other hemp-containing foods are popping up on menus, store shelves and even at your local coffee shop.
So here are 5 health benefits of hemp hearts that will surely give you enough reasons to fall in love with them.
1. Hemp Hearts are incredibly nutritious
Hemp hearts contain over 30% fat. They are exceptionally rich in two essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). They also contain gamma-linolenic acid, which has been linked to several health benefits. Hemp hearts are a great protein source, as more than 25% of their total calories are from high-quality protein.
That is considerably more than similar foods like chia seeds and flaxseeds, whose calories are 16–18% protein.
Hemp hearts are also a great source of vitamin E and minerals, such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron and zinc.
2. It Improves Heart Health
Hemp hearts live up to their name! They contain the amino acid arginine, which can lower blood pressure and reduce your risk of heart disease.
The gamma-linolenic acid found in hemp seeds has also been linked to reduced inflammation, which may decrease your risk of diseases like heart disease
They are rich in phytonutrients and anti-aging antioxidants such as vitamin E that protect the cardiovascular system from damage.
Also, animal studies have shown that hemp seeds or hemp seed oil may reduce blood pressure, decrease the risk of blood clot formation and help the heart recover after a heart attack.
3. Helps reduce muscle cramps
Hemp hearts are a rich source of magnesium, which has been shown to reduce headaches and muscle cramps as the mineral is involved in proper muscle relaxation.
Adding hemp seeds to shakes can prevent post workout cramps. Hemp also provides substantial amounts of zinc, manganese and iron. These minerals are important for repair of tissues and maintenance of the immune system.
4. It may help reduce symptoms of PMS and Menopause
Some studies suggest that hemp hearts may help with hormonal imbalances that cause menopausal symptoms including hot flashes and depression. They are also helpful for PMS symptoms due to its GLA and magnesium content.
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), found in hemp seeds, produces prostaglandin E1, which reduces the effects of prolactin.
5. Benefits in skin disorders
Studies have shown that giving hemp seed oil to people with eczema may improve blood levels of essential fatty acids.
The oil may also relieve dry skin, improve itchiness and reduce the need for skin medication.
Hemp seeds contain an especially beneficial type of omega-6 fat called GLA that works in the body as an anti-inflammatory massager.
GLA also supports healthy hair, nail and skin health.
Though hemp seeds have only recently become popular, they are a staple food in many societies and provide excellent nutritional value.
Overall, hemp seeds are incredibly healthy. And are one of the few superfoods worthy of their reputation.
If you like to purchase Organicule Hemp Hearts, do check the link to our Hemp Hearts page - https://www.organicule.com/collections/all-products/products/organic-hemp-hearts
- Written by Sonam Kochar Mantoo
