Did you know that Hemp Seeds are one of nature's most nutritious (and perfect) foods? These tiny seeds have a concentrated balance of proteins, essential fats, vitamins and enzymes, combined with almost no sugar, sodium, starches nor saturated fats.
They’re also super easy to digest, and contain about 13 grams of protein in just 3 tablespoons (that's a ton!). And like most other seeds, they can be used almost anywhere – from sprinkling on your smoothies/salads/soups to a key ingredient in many yummy plant-based recipes.
And personally, I LOVE them!
Hemp seeds (or hemp hearts) come from a variety of the cannabis plant, with health benefits ranging from improving digestion and improving metabolism to balancing hormones. Note: Although marijuana comes from the same plant, hemp seeds only contain a trace amount of THC (tetrahydrocannabinoids), the active ingredient in marijuana, and they will NOT get you high; they’re completely safe and extremely healthy! (However, because use of hemp is restricted in some countries, consult your health specialist before use).
Nutritional benefits of hemp seeds include:
Rich in OMEGA 3 fatty acids, which help reduce inflammation and boost immunity. Excellent 3:1 balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which provides crucial support for the brain, hormones, and even the heart. Hemp seeds have even been shown to help with cancer prevention
Rich in GLAs (gamma linoleic acid) – a an essential omega-6 fatty acid and building block for some hormones that help control inflammation and body temperature. GLA can help with balancing hormones and controlling both PMS and menopause symptoms.
High in insoluble and soluble FIBER, which helps keep your digestion regular, helping to relieve constipation as well as diarrhea. Overall, the effects of these two types of fiber on the body can help you avoid a number of mild to serious conditions, from IBS to cardiovascular disease.
High in plant-based PROTEIN, contains all 21 amino acids, including the 9 essential amino acids that our bodies cannot produce. And it’s a much easier to digest protein than meat (and other animal protein) as well as eggs, dairy, and other high-protein foods. Did you know… if we’re not getting enough quality amino acids, the body can produce higher amounts of stress hormones! And this can simultaneously lead to blood sugar imbalances.
Apart from being rich in protein/fiber/healthy fats, hemp seeds also contain:
Magnesium (great from stress and anxiety, as well as digestion)
Iron (supports oxygen production in the body, and is essential for our energy levels and avoiding fatigue. Lack of iron, aka anemia, is extremely common in women)
Zinc (helps lower inflammation, is great for the skin, in particular helps combat acne, and helps optimize hormone functions in the body, including your thyroid)
B-vitamins- esp B1, B2 B6 (help boost your metabolism and energy, along with neurotransmitter function, which help regulate stress hormones, among other things)
Vitamin E (helps prevent inflammation, disease and cognitive decline)
Additionally, hemp seeds contain: antioxidants, chlorophyll, calcium, vitamin D, sulfur, copper, potassium, phosphorus, and enzymes.
Hemp seeds can also be considered a natural appetite suppressant and can help you feel full longer and reduce sugar cravings, promoting weight loss.
Here are 4 of my favorite recipes with Hemp Seeds:
Pumpkin & Hemp Seed Pesto
Cashew & Hemp Aioli
Hemp Seed & Bean Veggie Burgers
Cacao Hemp & Cashew Energy Balls
EASIEST WAY TO REAP THE AWESOME BENEFITS OF THESE TINY SEEDS is by adding them to your daily diet (or at least a few times per week), sprinkling 1-2 tablespoons in your morning smoothies, on your salads and/or soups. And when you get a chance, give my recipes a shot - I know you'll love them!
Remember, regular consumption of hemp seeds can: relieve constipation, balance your hormones, lower inflammation and help with arthritis, reduce cravings, as well as naturally lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol (reducing LDL, raising HDL cholesterol and improving triglycerides).
Love and Health Hemp Seeds,
Mariana