Every day, we are inundated with suggestions from glamorous models in advertisements, advising us on the best products for achieving beautiful skin and hair. While the models always appear impeccable, many of us are aware that their flawless looks are mainly the result of airbrushing and skilled makeup artists. However, we might be surprised to discover that the condition of our skin often hinges more on the nutrients we consume than the beauty products we apply.
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid, plays a key role in promoting naturally healthier skin and overall wellness. Frequently recommended by practitioners of integrative medicine in supplement form for issues like eczema, as well as for combating dryness and flakiness, GLA also offers significant preventive health advantages. It may facilitate a healthy inflammatory response and support the immune system by producing important hormone-like compounds known as prostaglandins.
Moreover, GLA, classified as an omega-6 fatty acid, may assist in lowering blood pressure and relieving symptoms of dry eyes. In summary, it enhances both our internal health and external beauty.
The body can synthesize GLA from linoleic acid sourced from foods such as vegetable oils, nuts, and seeds. While this conversion is generally efficient for young, healthy individuals, a substantial number of Canadians do not meet their GLA needs through this process. Insufficient GLA synthesis can occur due to factors such as aging, dietary habits, health issues, or lifestyle choices like smoking.
Often, people only seek out GLA supplements when they experience issues related to dry or flaky skin and hair, receive a diagnosis for a skin condition, or encounter hormonal changes. It’s then that professionals familiar with GLA’s benefits might suggest it as a supplement. However, there are various methods to boost our GLA intake.
One delicious way to incorporate GLA into our diet is by enjoying hemp—whether as hempseeds, hemp hearts, or oil. Notably, hemp provides not only GLA but also plant-based sources of omega-3 fatty acids. These omega-3s are important for numerous functions, including regulating blood clotting and forming brain cell membranes.
Hemp hearts and shelled hempseeds are incredibly versatile; they can be sprinkled on salads, grains, and soups, blended into spreads, or integrated into cooking and baking. The oil can enhance salads or be drizzled over vegetables and grains post-cooking.
