Hemp Seeds? What are those? I had no idea what these were or how they could help me until I came across a young lady in a Whole Foods Market. Yes, that would be Julie Morris, author of Superfood Cuisine. If you’ve been here before you’ve seen my cacao powder post which highlights one of her recipes. It is from her book that I learned about the nutritional value of raw hemp seeds, how to use them, and now use them frequently in recipes. I especially like them in my quinoa recipes.
Hemp seeds have numerous benefits. Many of us are looking for added protein without having to eat more meat or beans. Well here is a great way to add protein to your diet in an easy to digest and subtle way. Hemp seeds are very versatile.
Hemp and Marijuana come from the same plant, but different varieties; therefore many people may think that hemp seeds or powder are bad for you, but this is a misconception. Hemp comes from the Cannabis sativa plant (there are like 2000 varieties) as does marijuana. However, while marijuana contains significant amounts of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) which is the active ingredient that makes you high, hemp comes from the variety that contains less than 1% of THC.
Hemp comes in many forms such as hemp seeds, hemp protein powder, hemp flour, hemp oil, and hemp milk. You can add hemp protein powder to your smoothie; however you will notice it’s a little gritty.
Hemp Seeds – How Can They Help Me?
- Hemp seeds have approximately 3 grams of protein in 1 tsp. My hemp protein powder says there is 11g of protein in 3 tbsp.
- Hemp seeds have all 20 amino acids, including the 9 essential ones our bodies do not produce. This makes them a complete protein that is of the highest quality which is also easily digested.
- Hemp seeds have more essential fatty acids than flax seeds. So the fat in hemp seeds is good polyunsaturated omega fats.
- Hemp seeds have the perfect ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which aid in cardiovascular and brain health.
- Hemp seeds have the highest fiber content of all the seeds.
- Hemp seeds have Inositol which helps strengthen hair follicles and breaks down fats and cholesterol, and help in relieving anxiety.
- Hemp seeds have vitamins and minerals like calcium, iron, zinc and magnesium.
- Hemp seeds help boost your immune system, lower LDL cholesterol, reduce inflammation, helps your muscles recover after exercise, and really the list goes on.
They have so many great benefits that it’s worth checking out and trying.
Hemp Seeds – What To Do With Them
You can sprinkle hemp seeds on a salad or add them into any dish like sautéed vegetables, rice or quinoa. My favorite recipe:
Sauté onions, add garlic, cook until they start to turn translucent, then add some chopped up kale. Cook the Kale until it’s wilted but still slightly tender, then add some pesto, and stir. Add cooked quinoa stir to mix. Sprinkle some hemp seeds and mix in. Serve immediately and enjoy.
I’d love to hear your recipes and how you use hemp seeds! So feel free to share :).
