Hemp seeds are a rich source of nutrients. These seeds, which are part of the hemp plant, are technically a nut that can be eaten raw or can be used to make milk, oil, cheese substitutes or protein powder. The nutty flavor and versatility of hemp seeds also make them an excellent substitute for the levels of protein, essential fatty acids, and other nutritional benefits found in meat and dairy products. Hemp seeds also contain high levels of omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids.
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of plant-based protein. They contain all nine essential amino acids, and research suggests that the protein content of hemp is well absorbed by our body. One of the omega-6 fatty acids in hemp seeds is gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), which may have anti-inflammatory effects similar to those of medications such as ibuprofen. A study found a 75% reduction in pain associated with arthritis in participants after nine months of taking GLA supplements.
The ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids in hemp seeds is the optimal level for nutritional benefits. This balance promotes both heart and cognitive health and is often not found in most diets. The fiber content of hemp seeds can cause digestive discomfort, such as bloating, nausea, or constipation in large quantities. Make sure you drink plenty of water when you eat hemp seeds to help avoid intestinal problems.
According to Kusske, hemp is one of the few complete protein sources. Not only are hemp hearts a plant-based source of protein, but they also contain healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids. When combined with a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidant compounds, hemp hearts are an endless source of nutrients that can benefit cardiovascular and metabolic health. In addition to all of these proteins, hemp hearts have an impressive range of the nine essential amino acids, including lysine, methionine, cysteine, arginine and glutamic acid.
The versatile flavor and texture of hemp hearts make them easy to incorporate into all types of meals, even the tastiest. While the hemp plant is often associated with cannabis, hemp seeds have very little or no amount of THC and are safe to consume regularly. If you take certain medications, such as estrogen, ACE inhibitors, or antihypertensive drugs, talk to your healthcare provider before consuming hemp seeds. If you use a handful of tasty and healthy ingredients, such as old-fashioned gluten-free oat flakes, shelled hemp seeds, organic chia seeds, and dried blueberries, you can create a granola that's packed with flavor and texture.
In fact, just one serving of hemp hearts provides nearly 3 grams of fiber, or 11% of the recommended daily amount. One thing's for sure: no matter what you decide to create with hemp hearts, it's sure to be delicious. Read on to learn more about these two hemp products and how you can use them to create tasty meals. A common misconception about hemp hearts, and hemp products in general, is that they can get you high.
Hemp seeds are also unique because they contain gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an anti-inflammatory omega fatty acid; flax and chia seeds don't contain it. Physicochemical and functional modifications of hemp protein concentrate through the application of ultrasonication and pH change treatments. While some people like the added crunch provided by the shell of a hemp seed, it doesn't always benefit the texture of the dish. To use shell-free hemp seed hearts to create a delicious on-the-go treat, follow this tasty vegan recipe for savory Mediterranean muffins.