Hemp seeds (often called hemp hearts) are not a revelation to humans, as we have been using them, along with other hemp products, for thousands of years, either as a component in bird seed mix , as a fishing bait or to make durable fabrics. . Unfortunately, we have yet to explore the full nutritional potential of these remarkable products, which have sometimes been named the world’s most nutritionally complete foods.
These seeds, obtained from plants of the Cannabis genus (fortunately, the varieties of oilseeds and fibers of the Cannabis plants that are approved for the production of industrial hemp produce negligible amounts of psychoactive substances, insufficient for any type of physical or psychological effects) They contain all the essential amino acids and most of the essential fatty acids necessary for human health. This means they are a reliable plant-based source of complete protein and healthy, unsaturated fats.
Approximately 40% of the weight of the seed is made up of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and 33% is made up of protein, surpassed only by soybeans, which contain 35% protein. However, the protein found in hemp seeds is easier to digest and more easily absorbed. They’re also a wonderful source of dietary fiber (which helps create the bulk of your stool and keep you feeling full), along with calcium, iron, helpful trace minerals, and electrolytes. It is also considered one of the safest foods to eat, as it is gluten-free, and can be consumed by people with any other food intolerances (such as lactose, sugar, or gluten), as long as there are no known allergies. .
Yet this seemingly remarkable and widespread plant product has been largely ignored as a possible nutritional source for humans. In fact, a recent study has shown that more than 95% of all hemp seeds sold in Europe are made into animal feed. However, there are countless ways to use and prepare it, and the options only end in our imagination. We can consume them raw, ground into a powder, sprouted, soaked, made into hemp milk (which is powdered seeds mixed with water and made into a creamy drink), added to baked goods, or even as a tea. Companies that produce health and fitness foods may also offer hemp tofu, butter, cereals, breads, and many other tasty items. The mild nutty flavor of the seed makes it a great addition to desserts and smoothies. Also, delicious vegan ice cream can be made from frozen hemp seed milk.
Surprisingly, hemp seed oil, which is extracted directly from the seeds, is used primarily in body care products or industrially in lubricants, fuels, paints, and plastics. However, the benefits of consuming the highly potent hemp seed oil cannot be ignored. It is comparatively lower in saturated fat than other cooking oils and has been shown to be effective in relieving eczema symptoms. While not suitable for frying due to its low smoking point, it is sometimes used as a dietary supplement: a single tablespoon of hemp seed oil per day can provide all the essential fats the human body needs to stay healthy. This makes it a great alternative to sunflower and olive oils for salads and dressings.
Even with these unquestionable nutritional benefits on display, hemp seeds are still largely considered a non-food product in many countries, and as a result, are not typically sold in grocery stores.