6 Evidence-Based Fertility Benefits of Hemp Seeds: A Superfood for Pregnant Women

Wondering if hemp seed is good for fertility? Yes, (Cannabis sativa) hemp seeds are an excellent source of essential fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals that are important for a fertile reproductive system.

The fertility benefits of hemp seeds also extend to pregnant women who need folate and other important vitamins and minerals such as vitamin E, zinc, and iron which are abundant in hemp seeds [1].

These nutrients in a way contribute greatly to pregnancy. For example, hemp seed is a good source of folate which is important for preventing birth defects, such as neural tube defects. Today’s article cut across the fertility benefits of hemp seeds as well as how they can promote healthy pregnancy.

Fertility-boosting nutrients in hemp seed

Hemp seeds are a nutritious food that can have several fertility benefits for both men and women even those who are pregnant. They are a good source of essential fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals, all of which promote fertility and healthy pregnancy.

For example, they are a good source of nutrients that are important for fetal development, such as folate, calcium, and magnesium. Here are some of the specific pregnancy and fertility-boosting nutrients in hemp seeds:

1. Folate
2. Magnesium
3. Omega-3 fatty acids
4. Omega-6 fatty acids
5. Vitamin E
6. Iron
7. Zinc

Fertility benefits of hemp seeds

1. May reduce the risk of ovulatory infertility

Hemp seeds contain non-heme iron which aids blood formation and paired with other iron-rich foods like beans, meat, seafood, fortified cereals, legumes, and spinach, it can boost energy and blood flow to the uterus which is essential for ovulation.

One study among US nurses noted a 40% reduction in the risk of ovulatory infertility with a higher intake of nonheme iron and iron supplements [2]. Another study suggests that iron-rich diets may improve ovation disorder [3].

Hemp seed is rich in B vitamins such as Thiamin, Riboflavin, and Niacin which are important for preventing certain reproductive abnormalities like ovulatory infertility.
A related study on 438 women who reported infertility due to ovulatory disorder suggests that regular intake of multivitamins such as folic acid (folate), and others like thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin may help decrease the risk of ovulatory infertility [4].

2. Boost sperm and egg production

Hemp seeds are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids which have been shown to support egg quality and sperm production. Study shows that omega-3 may help slow down ovarian aging and increase pregnancy outcomes [5].

Hemp seeds are rich in zinc, folate
omega-3, vitamin E, aspartic acid, magnesium, and B vitamins [1] which nutrients that are important for sperm production and egg development. It is also important for fetal development.

The food we eat may improve or harm our reproductive health. According to research, men’s diets have a great influence on spermatogenesis as its impact is evident in their sperm health. A study on 155 men with poor sperm quality suggests that regular intake of fish (not meat) and other foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids may improve sperm counts and morphology [6].

On a very serious note, you should be aware that fish are often contaminated with mercury and other neurotoxic substances [7], hence be careful of the type and hygiene of the fish you are eating.

3. May improve erectile function

Although clinical evidence is limited, hemp seeds are rich in arginine, an amino acid that produces nitric oxide [8] in the body which makes your blood vessels dilate and relax, leading to smooth blood flow to male reproductive organs for erection [9]. Study shows it may also lower blood pressure and risk of heart disease [10], which is beneficial for male fertility.

It also contains lysine another amino acid that could improve sperm health [11, 12, 13, 14].

Recent studies suggest that there may be a link between heart disease and infertility [15, 16]. However, a related study on over 13,000 people, revealed that increased intake of arginine lowered levels of C-reactive protein (CRP), an inflammation marker. High levels of CRP are linked to heart disease [17, 18].

4. May improve sperm and egg quality

Hemp seeds and oil contain high amounts of linoleic acid (LA) and alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) [19], vitamins A and E [21] which are important for quality sperm and egg. These nutrients have antioxidant properties making them able to combat oxidative stress.

5. May Reduce PMS and Menopause Symptoms

Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) and menopause can cause a variety of physical and emotional symptoms for millions of women worldwide. While there is no cure for either condition, hemp seeds may offer some relief.

Hemp seeds are a rich source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid that has been shown to reduce the effects of prolactin, a hormone that plays a role in PMS symptoms [28, 29].

In a study of women with PMS, taking 1 gram of essential fatty acids per day, including 210 mg of GLA, resulted in a significant decrease in symptoms [30].

Other studies have shown that primrose oil, which is also high in GLA, may be effective in reducing PMS symptoms for women who have failed other treatments.

Hemp seeds may also help to reduce menopause symptoms [31]. While the exact mechanism is unknown, it is thought that the GLA in hemp seeds may help to regulate hormone imbalances and inflammation associated with menopause.

How to Use Hemp Seeds to Reduce PMS and Menopause Symptoms

Hemp seeds are a versatile ingredient that can be added to a variety of foods and drinks. They can be eaten raw, cooked, or ground into a powder.

To add hemp seeds to your diet, try sprinkling them on yogurt, oatmeal, smoothies, or salads. You can also add them to baked goods, such as muffins, cookies, and breads.

Another option is to take hemp seed oil capsules. Hemp seed oil is a concentrated source of GLA and is easy to take on the go.

How Much Hemp Seeds Should I Take?

If you are new to hemp seeds, start by adding a small amount to your diet, such as 1 tablespoon per day. You can gradually increase the amount as tolerated.

If you are taking hemp seed oil capsules, follow the dosage instructions on the product label.

6. Boost Pregnancy outcomes

A systematic review [22] has provided a piece of evidence that alpha lipoic acid (ALA) which is richly found in hemp seed oil [23] has several positive effects on both male and female fertility, and is a beneficial supplement for couples who are struggling to conceive. Hence, regular intake of hemp seeds may improve pregnancy outcomes. However, more research is needed to confirm the long-term safety and efficacy of ALA for fertility.

Fertility benefits of alpha lipoic acid (ALA)

• Improved sperm quality in men, including increased sperm count, motility, and morphology
• Reduced pelvic pain in women with endometriosis
• Regularized menstrual flow and metabolic disorders in women
• Improved oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo development in women
• Increased reproductive outcomes in couples
• For Male fertility: ALA is a powerful antioxidant that can help to protect sperm from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells, including sperm cells. ALA can also help to improve sperm motility and morphology.
• For Female fertility: ALA can help to improve oocyte maturation, fertilization, and embryo development. It can also help to reduce inflammation [24] and improve insulin sensitivity, which are both important for female fertility.

Hemp seeds during pregnancy

The benefits of taking Hemp seeds during pregnancy lack clinical research to determine their safety during pregnancy and lactation, as hemp seeds are thought to have trace amounts of psychoactive compounds [25]. So before taking it orally or topically during pregnancy or breastfeeding, it is important to consult with medical experts for advice.

Possible Benefits of taking Hemp seeds during pregnancy

May aid fetus development

Notwithstanding, incorporating hemp seed during pregnancy may aid fetus development due to its folate and essential fatty acid contents. Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids found in hemp seed [26] also support hormone production, cell growth, and overall reproductive health.

May prevent anemia

One other possible benefit of hemp seed during pregnancy is that it may help prevent anemia (blood shortage) which can be detrimental to the developing fetus, and if untreated may increase the risk of delivering your baby early and having a low weight Interestingly, hemp seeds are rich in plant-based iron and little amount of ascorbic acid which promotes iron absorption. Pairing it with other iron-rich food can greatly improve blood formation and lower the risk of anemia.

Can supplements lacking nutrients: Hemps seeds which are similar to foods like chia seeds and flaxseeds, are great sources of vitamin E, B vitamins, and minerals, such as phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron, and zinc [27].

How to eat Hemp Seeds

Here are some tips for incorporating hemp seeds into your diet:

• Pour a few hemp seeds into your mouth, chew them, and brush them down with a cup of juice extract for nectarines, peaches, or other organic and nutrient-dense juice.
• Add hemp seeds to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, cereal, and other foods.
• Grind hemp seeds into a powder and add it to baking goods.
• Take the seed supplements in capsules, powders, or liquids.
• You can also buy hemp seed oil and use it in salad dressings, marinades, and other recipes.

It is important to note that hemp seeds are a high-calorie food, so it is important to eat them in moderation. It is also important to talk to your doctor before adding hemp seeds to your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.

Seeds best for fertility

Wondering which seeds are best for fertility? The best seeds for fertility are those that are high in essential fatty acids, protein, and vitamins and minerals. Some of the best seeds for fertility include:

• Hemp seeds
• Chia seeds
• Pumpkin seeds
• Flaxseeds
• Sunflower seeds
• Sesame seeds
• Walnuts
• Almonds
• Brazil nuts
• Cashews
• Pecans

Are hemp seeds good for hormones?

Yes, hemp seeds are good for hormones. They contain essential fatty acids and other nutrients that are important for hormone production.

How do you use chia seeds to conceive?

• You can use chia seeds to conceive by adding them to your diet or taking them as a supplement.
• To add chia seeds to your diet: Chia seeds can be added to smoothies, yogurt, oatmeal, cereal, and other foods. You can also grind chia seeds into a powder and add it to baking goods.
• To take chia seeds as a supplement: Chia seed supplements are available in capsules, powders, and liquids. The recommended dosage of chia seeds for fertility is 1-2 tablespoons per day.

Do hemp seeds help fertility?

Yes, hemp seeds can help fertility. They contain essential fatty acids, protein, vitamins, and minerals that are important for reproductive health.

Which seeds are good for conceiving?

The best seeds for conceiving are those that are high in essential fatty acids, protein, and vitamins and minerals. Some of the best seeds for conceiving include:

• Hemp seeds
• Chia seeds
• Flaxseeds
• Pumpkin seeds
• Sesame seeds
• Sunflower seeds

Are hemp seeds good for hormones?

Yes, hemp seeds are good for hormones. They contain essential fatty acids and other nutrients that are important for hormone production.

What happens if you eat hemp seeds every day?

Eating hemp seeds every day can have several health benefits, including:

• Improved heart health
• Reduced risk of inflammation
• Improved skin health
• Weight loss
• Better sleep
• Increased energy levels
• Eating hemp seeds every day can also improve fertility, as they contain essential fatty acids, protein, and vitamins and minerals that are important for reproductive health.

It is important to note that hemp seeds are a high-calorie food, so it is important to eat them in moderation. It is also important to talk to your doctor before adding hemp seeds to your diet, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.