Benefits of Eating Raw Hemp Seeds and Hemp Guacamole Recipe

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Check out these five benefits for consuming hemp seeds that are also backed up by science.

1. Incredibly Nutritious

They are typically considered a nut and have a mild, nutty flavor, and are often referred to as a hemp hearts.

They 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 with several health benefits.

As more than 25% of their total calories are from high-quality protein hemp seeds are considered a great protein source.

That is considerably more than similar foods like chia seeds and flaxseeds, which provide about 16–18%.

Hemp seeds are also a great source of vitamin E and minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron and zinc .

Hemp seeds can be consumed raw, cooked or roasted. Hemp seed oil is also very healthy, and has been used as a food/medicine in China for at least 3,000 years.

2. May Reduce the Risk of Heart Disease

Hemp seeds contain high amounts of the amino acid arginine, which is used to produce nitric oxide in the body.

Nitric oxide is a gas molecule that makes the blood vessels dilate and relax, leading to lowered blood pressure and a reduced risk of heart disease.

In one large study of more than 13,000 people, increased arginine intake was linked with decreased levels of C-reactive protein (CRP). CRP is an inflammatory marker linked with heart disease.

The gamma-linolenic acid found in hemp seeds has also been linked with reduced inflammation, which may decrease the risk of diseases like heart disease.

Additionally, 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. May Benefit Skin Disorders

Fatty acids may affect immune responses in the body.

This may have something to do with the balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids.

Hemp seeds are a good source of polyunsaturated and essential fatty acids. They have about a 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3, which is considered in the optimal range.

Studies have shown that giving hemp seed oil to people with eczema may improve blood levels of essential fatty acids.

It may also relieve dry skin, improve itchiness and reduce the need for skin medication.

4. Great Source of Plant-Based Protein

About 25% of calories in hemp seeds come from protein, which is relatively high.

In fact, by weight, hemp seeds provide amounts of protein similar to beef and lamb. 30 grams of hemp seeds, or 2–3 tablespoons, provide about 11 grams of protein.

They are considered a complete protein source, which means that they provide all the essential amino acids. Essential amino acids are not produced in the body and need to be gotten from the diet.

Hemp seeds contain significant amounts of the amino acids methionine and cysteine, as well as very high levels of arginine and glutamic acid.

The digestibility of hemp protein is also very good — better than protein from many grains, nuts and legumes.

5. Whole Hemp Seeds May Aid Digestion

Fiber is an essential part of the diet and is linked with better digestive health.

Whole hemp seeds are a good source of both soluble (20%) and insoluble (80%) fiber.

Soluble fiber forms a gel-like substance in the gut. It is a valuable source of nutrients for the beneficial digestive bacteria, and may also reduce spikes in blood sugar and regulate cholesterol levels.

Insoluble fiber adds bulk to fecal matter and may help food and waste pass through the gut. Consuming insoluble fiber has also been linked with a reduced risk of diabetes.

However, de-hulled or shelled hemp seeds contain very little fiber, because the fiber-rich shell has been removed.

Check out this Hemp Guacamole recipe that you can quickly and easily make for your guests or you can take with you to your next party and be the star of the party.

Ingredients:

• 2 large ripe peeled avocados
• 2 tablespoons lemon or lime juice
• 2 medium tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup hemp seed
• 1 1/2 teaspoons fresh cilantro leaves

Preparation:

With a fork mash the avocados and lemon or lime juice. Finely chop the onion and tomatoes and add to the avocados. Add the salt, Hemp seed and cilantro. Makes about 2 cups. Serve with raw vegetable slices, chips, crackers or use as a sandwich spread for flax crackers.