Hemp seeds – part 2
Hemp oil: a very interesting functional food!
Hemp seed is rich in essential fatty acids, also known as polyunsaturated fats. Since these are not naturally produced by the body, the only way to avoid deficiency is to consume them from an external source, such as certain vegetable or fish oils. Hemp seed oil has some advantages over other oils. It contains linoleic acid and alpha-linolenic acid, the essential polyunsaturated fatty acids omega 6 and omega 3 respectively, in a ratio suitable for human consumption, i.e. 3:1.[1] Gamma-linolenic acid is also present. This is a type of omega 6 that gives hemp oil a higher nutritional value than most other vegetable oils, as it complements the dietary intake of omega 3.
Among the myriad benefits attributed to this essential fatty acid are anti-inflammatory and anti-thrombotic properties, and it has been reported that this compound may have an inhibitory effect on certain types of cancer and tumor growth. What’s more, this fat tends to increase overall metabolism, thus helping weight loss. It has also been shown to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It helps normalize fat metabolism and reduce insulin dependence in diabetics. It has also demonstrated significant anti-inflammatory properties, specifically in the treatment of arthritis and rheumatism.[i]
However, it’s very important to maintain a good ratio of omega 6 and omega 3, because when over-consumed, essential fatty acids can have negative effects on health. An overconsumption of omega 6, for example, can lead to inflammatory effects on tissues and also cause certain health disorders, including cardiovascular disease, asthma and type 2 diabetes, to name but a few. It is therefore crucial to control your intake of essential fatty acids.
[1] Here, literature does not agree on the ideal ratio. Some sources put the ratio at 4:1, while others put it at 5:1. In the absence of a consensus, we feel it prudent to adhere to the most conservative ratio.
[i] Leizer, Cary, David Ribnicky, Alexander Poulev, Slavik Dushenkov & Ilya Raskin. 2000. The Composition of Hemp Seed Oil and Its Potential as an Important Source of Nutrition. Journal of Nutraceuticals, Functional & Medical Foods Vol. 2(4). The Haworth Press, Inc.
