Hemp Seeds When Pregnant: Safety, Benefits, And Side Effects

These tiny seeds are safe, provided they are taken in quantities suggested by your doctor.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Irene (Eirini) Orfanoudaki, MD, PhD Dr. Irene (Eirini) Orfanoudaki Dr. Irene (Eirini) OrfanoudakiMD, PhD MomJunction on FacebookFollow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Gynaecology and ObstetricsExperience: 21 years
Written by , M.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA Swati Patwal M.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Food, Nutrition and HealthExperience: 10 years
Edited by , BSc Rebecca Malachi BSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Pregnancy, Health and WellnessExperience: 12 years
Fact-checked by , MSc Aneesha Amonz MSc Follow MomJunction on Linkedin Specialty: Health and WellnessExperience: 2 years
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Hemp Seeds During Pregnancy

Image: Shutterstock

Most women wonder about the safety of consuming hemp seeds in pregnancy since they come from commercial hemp plants (Cannabis sativa) that belong to the same species as marijuana. Hemp seeds are brown, nutty-flavored seeds packed with essential nutrients such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Pregnant women need these nutrients for optimal growth and development of the baby.

Read this post about the possible benefits and risks of ingesting hemp seeds in pregnancy.

In This Article

Safety Of Hemp Seeds For Pregnant Women

The US Food And Drug Administration (US FDA) recognizes hulled hemp seeds, hemp seed protein powder, and hemp seed oil safe for human consumption (1). Although commercial hemp seeds and marijuana come from the same species, they are derived from different varieties or cultivars.

Hemp plants are a Cannabis sativa cultivar with less than 0.3% of THC, which is the psychoactive substanceiA drug that alters the mental processes of a human brain and may also affect their behavior of marijuana. Hemp plants may contain more cannabidiol (CBD), which is a non-psychoactive substance. The compounds THC and CBD are mostly found in the stems, flowers, and leaves (2).

Hemp seeds may contain a minuscule amount of THC and CBD, but these are insufficient to cause any psychogenici Something that has a psychogenic origin instead of a physical origin effects. The FDA says that “these amounts are low enough to not raise concerns for any group, including pregnant or breastfeeding mothers (3).” Nevertheless, THC and CBD are cannabinoids that could affect the mother and her baby’s health in high doses. Thus, consult your doctor to know if you can consume hemp seeds and in what quantity.

Nutritional Value Of Hemp Seeds

Whole and hulled hemp seeds have different nutritional values

Image: Shutterstock

Whole hemp seed has a crisp outer covering and a soft center. When the whole seed is hulled (outer covering removed), it leaves a soft center behind, known as hemp heart, shelled hemp, or hemp nut.

Here’s a brief overview of nutrients in three tablespoons (30g) of hulled hemp seeds and how much of those nutrients a pregnant woman aged between 19 and 30 years should consume each day (4) (5).

NutrientsAmountRDA
Protein9.48g71g
Calcium, Ca21mg1000mg
Iron, Fe2.38mg27g
Magnesium, Mg210mg350mg
Phosphorus, P495mg700mg
Potassium, K360mg2900mg
Zinc, Zn2.97mg11mg
Niacin2.76mg18mg
Folate, total33µg600µg
Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)0.24mg15mg

Source: US Food Data Central and Dietary Guidelines For Americans 2020-2025

Possible Health Benefits Of Hemp Seeds During Pregnancy

Hemp hearts are a highly nutritious pregnancy superfood that contains several nutrients and minerals beneficial for you and your baby. Certified holistic nutritionist and expecting mother Meghan Livingstone explains her reasons and methods for including hemp seeds in her diet during pregnancy. She states, “Hemp seeds are also a great source of plant-based protein, fiber, and healthy fats. I add them to just about everything. Another phase I went through was toast with peanut butter and strawberry jam and then loads of hemp seeds on top. I would sometimes have that as an evening snack or even before bed if I was feeling hungry (i).”

Here’s how regular consumption of hemp seeds in moderation and as a part of a healthy, well-balanced pregnancy diet may benefit you.

  1. Support body functions: Hemp seeds have several nutrients, such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, zinc, and iron. Your body requires these nutrients to carry out different body functions essential for a healthy pregnancy. For instance, hemp seeds contain a considerable amount of iron which could help avert iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in pregnancy. IDA may lead to complications in the newborn, such as premature birth, low birth weight, or poor growth (6).
  1. Aid baby’s growth and development: Hemp hearts contain significant amounts of plant-based protein that can contribute to your total protein requirement. Pregnant women need more protein during pregnancy to support the growth of fetal tissue (including the brain) and breast and uterine tissues. Also, it plays a pivotal role in increasing your blood supply (7). Additionally, hemp seeds have high amounts of omega-3 fatty acids, such as DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), which help in healthy fetal brain and eye development (8).
Hemp seeds support the growth of fetal tissue

Image: IStock

  1. Keeps digestive system healthy: Expecting mothers between the ages of 19 and 30 require 28 to 36g of fiber per 1000 calories (5). Three tablespoons of hemp seeds offer 1.2 grams of dietary fiber, making it one of the fiber-rich foods during pregnancy (4). Consuming optimum amounts of fiber is vital to add bulk to the diet and maintain healthy bowel movements, which helps keep constipation and related issues away.
  1. Maintains heart health: Hemp seeds contain healthy fats such as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in ratios that promote heart health  (9). Additionally, they contain high amounts of magnesium, which facilitates the active transportation of potassium and calcium across the cell membrane and supports normal heartbeat (10).
Hemp seeds promote heart health

Image: Shutterstock

protip_icon Quick fact
Hemp protein contains all nine essential amino acids and is a complete protein (14).

Besides these, hemp seeds contain several bioactive compounds that confer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties that promote overall health and well-being (11).

Possible Side Effects Of Hemp Seeds During Pregnancy

Hemp seeds have several benefits for maternal health, but they may have certain side effects. Here’s what you should know, especially when you are consuming hemp seeds for the first time.

  1. Gastrointestinal problems: Consuming hemp seeds may cause upset stomach or diarrhea in sensitive individuals. Hence, ingest only a small amount of hemp seeds, such as half a teaspoon, for the first time. Then, gradually increase the quantity, depending on your digestion.
  1. Allergy: Hemp seed allergy isn’t common but possible (12). According to a collective survey conducted by various institutions, it was discovered that among individuals who do not consume cannabis, a small proportion of 2.5% reported being allergic to cannabis. The symptoms of hemp seed allergy include wheezing, abdominal cramps, hives or skin rash, and eye redness. In rare cases, severe reactions, such as anaphylaxisiA rare but severe and potentially fatal allergic reaction , may also occur.
Skin rash is a sign of hemp seed allergy

Image: Shutterstock

  1. Drug interaction: Hemp seeds could interact with drugs that support blood clotting, such as anticoagulantsiDrugs that lower the risk of strokes and heart attacks by preventing the formation of blood clots (warfarin), and treat irregular heartbeat (digoxin). Consuming diureticsiDrugs that help lower blood pressure and clear excess salt and water from the body with hemp seeds may cause dangerously low potassium levels, which could adversely affect your heart.

Other Hemp Seed Products You Can Have During Pregnancy

Include hemp seed oil in your diet during pregnancy

Image: Shutterstock

Besides hemp seeds, mothers can include hemp seed oil, hemp seed milk, and hemp seed protein powder in their prenatal nutritional diet. These hemp seeds products contain little or no THC and CBD and are usually safe for pregnant women.

However, to ensure your and your baby’s safety, you must talk to your healthcare professional. Depending on your and your child’s health, your healthcare provider will guide you on whether these products are safe for you and in what quantities.

protip_icon Quick tip
Hemp milk has an earth flavor and adding it to smoothies, cereal, soups, and baked goods is the best way to mask it (15).

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is hemp seed oil lotion safe during pregnancy?

Hemp seed oil is rich in PUFA, which may help reduce skin dryness and itchiness (13). However, the safety and efficacy of topical application of hemp seed for the mother and her baby aren’t known. Hence, mothers should consult their doctor before using hemp seed oil or hemp seed-containing products during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

2. Does hemp seed oil help with stretch marks?

No research studies or clinical trials exist to support using hemp seed oil to reduce or remove stretch marks. Speak to your healthcare provider if you are keen to use hemp seed oil for stretch marks.

3. Are there any food safety guidelines to follow when consuming hemp seeds during pregnancy?

There are no food safety guidelines or precautions available for hemp seeds. Research shows hemp seeds contain negligible amounts of CBD and THC that may not be harmful to the mother or the fetus. However, it is advised to eat in moderation and consult a healthcare provider before consuming.

Hemp seeds are nutritious, particularly rich in essential fatty acids. These seeds also contain fiber and several antioxidants that can promote overall prenatal health. Pregnant women can consume hemp seeds in moderation as a part of a well-balanced diet as the amount of THC and CBD in them is negligible. Speak to your OB-GYN before using hemp seeds in pregnancy to ensure your and your baby’s safety. Besides hemp seeds, hemp seed powder, hemp seed oil, and hemp seed milk can also be consumed during pregnancy following your healthcare provider’s approval.

Infographic: Can Hemp Milk Be Prepared At Home?

Hemp milk is produced from hemp seeds and provides a creamy, lactose-free alternative to cow milk. It may be used as an ingredient in smoothies and other recipes requiring milk during pregnancy. The infographic below provides a simple recipe to prepare hemp milk from hemp seeds at home.

homemade hemp milk recipe (infographic)

Illustration: Momjunction Design Team

Key Pointers

  • Hulled hemp seeds, hemp seed protein powder, and hemp seed oil are considered safe to consume as per the US FDA.
  • Hemp seeds aid fetal development and improve the mother’s digestion.
  • Consult your dietician before consuming hemp seeds to avoid gastrointestinal issues or certain allergies

Illustration: Hemp Seeds While Pregnant: Safety Benefits And Side Effects

hemp seeds in pregnancy_illustration

Image: Stable Diffusion/MomJunction Design Team


Hemp seeds can help improve your health and well-being. Discover the amazing benefits of hemp seeds with the following video.

Personal Experience: Source

MomJunction articles include first-hand experiences to provide you with better insights through real-life narratives. Here are the sources of personal accounts referenced in this article.

i. 15 foods I eat weekly while pregnant: Healthy staples + meal/snack ideas.
https://youtu.be/y1O-Q8KCbKA?feature=shared

References

MomJunction's articles are written after analyzing the research works of expert authors and institutions. Our references consist of resources established by authorities in their respective fields. You can learn more about the authenticity of the information we present in our editorial policy.
  1. FDA Regulation of Cannabis and Cannabis-Derived Products, Including Cannabidiol (CBD).
    https://www.fda.gov/news-events/public-health-focus/fda-regulation-cannabis-and-cannabis-derived-products-including-cannabidiol-cbd
  2. Defining Hemp: A Fact Sheet.
    https://sgp.fas.org/crs/misc/R44742.pdf
  3. What You Should Know About Using Cannabis, Including CBD, When Pregnant or Breastfeeding.
    https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/what-you-should-know-about-using-cannabis-including-cbd-when-pregnant-or-breastfeeding
  4. Seeds, hemp seed, hulled, FDC ID: 170148.
    https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170148/nutrients
  5. Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025.
    https://www.dietaryguidelines.gov/sites/default/files/2020-12/Dietary_Guidelines_for_Americans_2020-2025.pdf
  6. Anemia in Pregnancy.
    https://www.cedars-sinai.org/health-library/diseases-and-conditions/a/anemia-in-pregnancy.html
  7. Pregnancy Nutrition.
    https://americanpregnancy.org/healthy-pregnancy/pregnancy-health-wellness/pregnancy-nutrition/
  8. Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Plant-Based Diets
    https://www.pcrm.org/good-nutrition/nutrition-information/omega-3
  9. Barbara Farinon et al.; (2020); The Seed of Industrial Hemp (Cannabis sativa L.): Nutritional Quality and Potential Functionality for Human Health and Nutrition.
    https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7400098/
  10. Magnesium.
    https://lpi.oregonstate.edu/mic/minerals/magnesium#cardiovascular-disease-prevention
  11. Luana Izzo et al.; (2020); Chemical Analysis of Minor Bioactive Components and Cannabidiolic Acid in Commercial Hemp Seed Oil.
    https://www.mdpi.com/1420-3049/25/16/3710/pdf
  12. Kristen Bortolin et al.; (2016); Case Series of 5 Patients with Anaphylaxis to Hemp Seed Ingestion.
    https://www.jacionline.org/article/S0091-6749(15)02711-6/fulltext
  13. S Sapino et al.; (2005); Hemp-seed and olive oils: their stability against oxidation and use in O/W emulsions.
    https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16130045/
  14. Hemp Protein: What To Know.
    https://health.clevelandclinic.org/hemp-protein-what-to-know/
  15. Milk Alternatives.
    https://badgut.org/information-centre/health-nutrition/milk-alternatives/
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Dr. Irene (Eirini) Orfanoudaki
Dr. Irene (Eirini) OrfanoudakiPhD, MD
Dr. Irene (Eirini) Orfanoudaki is a gynecologist-obstetrician, having a private practice in Heraklion, Crete, and collaborating with private health clinic 'MITERA' - Euromeda in Heraklion. With around 21 years of experience as a gynecologist-obstetrician, she specializes in ultrasound, colposcopy, minimal and advance gynecologic surgery, aesthetic gynecology, fertility consulting, menopause consulting, operative obstetrics, high-risk pregnancy, normal deliveries, antenatal, intra-parum, postnatal care, breast diseases, and teenage issues.

Read full bio of Dr. Irene (Eirini) Orfanoudaki
Swati Patwal
Swati PatwalM.Sc. (Food & Nutrition), MBA
Swati Patwal is a clinical nutritionist, a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE) and a toddler mom with more than a decade of experience in diverse fields of nutrition. She started her career as a CSR project coordinator for a healthy eating and active lifestyle project catering to school children.

Read full bio of Swati Patwal
Rebecca Malachi
Rebecca MalachiBSc
Rebecca is a pregnancy writer and editor with a passion for delivering research-based and engaging content in areas of fertility, pregnancy, birth, and post-pregnancy. She did her graduation in Biotechnology and Genetics from Loyola Academy, Osmania University and obtained a certification in ‘Nutrition and Lifestyle in Pregnancy’ from Ludwig Maximilian University of Munich (LMU).

Read full bio of Rebecca Malachi
Aneesha Amonz
Aneesha AmonzMSc
Aneesha holds a Bachelor's degree in Biotechnology from USTM, Meghalaya and Master’s degree in Applied Microbiology from VIT, Vellore. With two years of experience, she has worked on different research projects in the field of Food Sciences.

Read full bio of Aneesha Amonz