Last Updated on July 17, 2022 by Dr Sharon Baisil MD
Hemp seeds are a healthy snack for diabetics and people with high cholesterol, heart disease, or other illnesses. They contain hemp seed oil, which is also known as hemp seed butter. It is similar to olive oil but has added omega-3 fatty acids.
Hemp seeds come from the hemp plant, which is a variety of the Cannabis sativa plant species. The hemp plant is tall and slender, with long, thin leaves. The hemp seeds are found in the plant’s flowers, which are small and green.
Want to read more about its benefits for diabetes? Check out the list mentioned below!
16 Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds for Diabetes
Hemp seeds are a nutritional powerhouse, packing a serious punch of protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. But that’s not all these versatile little seeds can do. It can also be used as a healthy snack when eating a low-carb diet. Recent studies have shown that hemp seeds may also be beneficial for people with diabetes.
Here are just a few of the ways hemp seeds can help you with diabetes.
1 – Offers a Rich Nutrient Profile
Hemp seeds are a true superfood, and their nutritional profile is impressive. They’re a good source of protein, essential fatty acids, and minerals like phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, and zinc.
Hemp seeds are also a good source of fiber, and their high protein and fiber content makes them very filling. This is important for people with diabetes, as controlling blood sugar levels is essential.
Studies have shown that hemp seeds can help to lower blood sugar levels and improve insulin sensitivity. One study in rats found that hemp seeds improved blood sugar control and insulin sensitivity by up to 50%.
Hemp seeds are a delicious and nutritious way to help control diabetes. Their high protein and fiber content helps to keep blood sugar levels stable, and their essential fatty acids and minerals are essential for good health.
2 – Boosts Immune System
Hemp seeds are a good source of essential fatty acids, which are necessary for the proper function of the immune system. Essential fatty acids help the body produce hormones that regulate immunity.
3 – Heart-Friendly
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, all of which are essential for heart health. They are also a good source of magnesium, a mineral that is known to help reduce blood pressure. In addition, these seeds contain high levels of arginine, an amino acid that helps keep the arteries clear and prevents blood clots.
Some studies have shown that hemp seeds might help reduce the risk of heart disease by as much as 20%. One such study showed that consuming these seeds can improve high cholesterol levels and lower heart disease risk.
4 – Promotes Good Digestion
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber, which can help with regularity and promote good digestion. Hemp seeds are also a good source of protein and essential fatty acids, which can help to keep the digestive tract healthy and functioning properly.
5 – Great As Salads
Hemp seeds are delicious sprinkled over salads or added to soups and other meals. Adding hemp seed oil as a dressing also makes that food interesting because it tastes good!
6 – Enjoyed As Healthy Cookies
Hemp seeds are a perfect addition to any cookie recipe – and they’re especially good for those with diabetes. That’s because hemp seeds are a low-glycemic food, meaning they won’t cause a spike in blood sugar levels. And not only are they diabetes-friendly, but hemp seeds are also a good source of protein and fiber, both of which are important for blood sugar control.
So if you’re looking for a healthy cookie recipe that’s also diabetes-friendly, try adding hemp seeds to your next batch. You’ll be surprised at how delicious they are – and your blood sugar levels will thank you!
7 – Blend With Smoothies
Hemp seeds are great when added in place of nuts and sunflower seeds for a rich and tasty smoothie. They make an excellent blending form with dark chocolate, avocado, kefir, or yogurt to create a healthy treat that keeps you satisfied throughout the day!
8 – Weight Management
Hemp seeds are a great option for those looking to manage their weight. They are high in protein and fiber, which can help to keep you feeling full and satisfied after eating. Additionally, hemp seeds are a good source of healthy fats, which can help to promote weight loss in diabetics.
Here are a few ways to incorporate hemp seeds into your diet for weight management:
- Add them to your morning oatmeal or smoothie for a protein and fiber boost.
- Use them in place of breadcrumbs in recipes for a healthier option.
- Sprinkle them on top of salads or vegetables for a flavor and nutrient-rich punch.
- Make a hemp seed pesto or hummus for a delicious and nutritious dip or spread.
- Use them to make homemade energy bars or balls for a healthy snack on the go.
9 – Rich in Antioxidants
Hemp seeds are one of the richest sources of antioxidants in nature. Other than omega-3 and -6, these seeds contain many antioxidants like glutathione (GSH), flavonoids, lignans, vitamin E, and phytoestrogens such as genistein (genistenol). These healthy components may help protect against heart disease by lowering bad cholesterol levels, and it also lowers blood pressure which is good for people who suffer from cardiovascular diseases.
10 – Anti-Inflammatory Properties
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of anti-inflammatory nutrients, making them a valuable addition to the diet of anyone looking to reduce inflammation. This is especially true for those with diabetes, as inflammation is a major factor in the development and progression of the disease.
The fatty acids in hemp seeds are largely responsible for their anti-inflammatory effects. These fatty acids include both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which work together to reduce inflammation throughout the body. In addition, hemp seeds are a good source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), another anti-inflammatory fatty acid.
In addition to their anti-inflammatory fatty acids, hemp seeds are also a good source of fiber. This is important because fiber helps to regulate blood sugar levels, which is essential for diabetics. Fiber also helps to promote a healthy gut, which is another important factor in reducing inflammation.
Overall, hemp seeds are a great addition to the diet of anyone looking to reduce inflammation. They are especially beneficial for diabetics, as they can help to regulate blood sugar levels and promote a healthy gut.
11 – Promotes Brain Health
Hemp seeds are a good source of essential fatty acids, including linoleic acid (LA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA). These fatty acids are important for maintaining brain health and preventing hypertension and stroke.
Hemp seeds are also a good source of protein and minerals, including magnesium, potassium, and zinc. These nutrients are important for brain health and function.
Studies have shown that LA and ALA can help to protect the brain from damage caused by stroke and other neurological conditions. LA and ALA can also help to improve cognitive function and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia.
Hemp seeds are a nutritious food that can help to improve brain health and prevent hypertension and stroke in people with diabetes.
12 – Rich in Unsaturated Fats
Hemp is a naturally rich source of omega-3, preventing heart disease. It contains several unsaturated fats that support normal brain function and healthy hormone production in men and women. A natural moisturizer for skin dry from winter, hemp seed oil also decreases infections due to its antibacterial properties.
13 – Benefits for Skin Disorders
Hemp seeds are rich in essential fatty acids, which are necessary for maintaining the integrity of cell membranes. These fatty acids also help to reduce inflammation and keep the skin hydrated. Hemp seeds are also a good source of vitamin E, which is a powerful antioxidant that helps to protect the skin from damage from free radicals.
14 – An Ideal Source of Plant-Based Protein
Hemp seeds are a great source of plant protein. They consist mainly of carbohydrates, proteins, and essential fatty acids; the nutritional content is usually 25% carbohydrates, 20% fat, and 45-50% protein. They also contain calcium that assists in healthy cell development for bones while promoting contraction when you’re working out or playing sports outdoors.
15 – Reduce Symptoms of Menopause & PMS
Hemp seeds effectively fight menstrual cramps caused by a lack of iron nutritional value. They are also a great source of magnesium and ubiquinone, which have been proven to reduce pain in women during cycles causing them not to experience the symptoms associated with painful periods – this is beneficial for both men and women who suffer from period pains or PMS, as it can help relieve if discomfort caused by these syndromes.
16 – Aids in Digestion
Hemp seeds improve digestion, relieve nausea and soften stool. Humous can also help prevent constipation by balancing the fluid levels in your stomach that are depleted during periods or taking medications to lower uric acid levels naturally while experiencing no loss of normal kidney function under these circumstances.
FAQs about Hemp Seeds and Diabetes
What is hemp seed?
Answer: The hemp seed contains protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids. The hemp seed oil is high in omega-3 and -6 fatty acids. These seeds have a good glycemic index (GI), making them suitable for healthy people with diabetes who are on insulin therapy to control blood glucose levels or those of diabetics whose condition requires careful attention towards their diet.
Hemp seeds are the seeds of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. They are from the same family as marijuana, but they do not contain THC, the psychoactive compound.
What is the importance of omega in hemp seeds?
Answer: Hemp seeds are considered to be a complete protein. It contains all nine essential amino acids, meaning it can help you meet your daily requirements for these nutrients, which have been shown to lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes. Omega fatty acid is also believed to improve insulin sensitivity (the body’s ability to use the hormone properly), making them beneficial in reducing or delaying the progression of diabetic kidney disease, peripheral neuropathy, heart disease, etc.
Final Words
All in all, hemp seeds are a great source of natural, high-grade protein that is vegan and mineral-rich. They also help keep your skin healthy while promoting cellular growth in the epidermis.
The nutrition facts for hemp seeds indicate this versatile food’s low calorie and fat content, making it an ideal choice to be added to any diabetic diet plan or lifestyle. The fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals are also high, playing a vital role in managing diabetes mellitus.
References
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23609775/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10617998
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/6350579
https://doi.org/10.5601/jelem.2017.22.3.1500
https://ndb.nal.usda.gov/ndb/foods/show/12012
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11745-015-4088-7
https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0378874114003511
https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170148/nutrients
https://nifa.usda.gov/industrial-hemp
