Healthy Tuesday Nutrient of the Week: Hemp Seeds

Considered by many nutritionists as a super food, hemp seeds do not disappoint. They are packed with health-promoting and disease-fighting nutrients. Hemp seeds are an excellent source of protein and serve as a highly suitable vegan alternative to animal products. Medical News Today, 9 Benefits of Hemp Seeds: Nutrition, Health, and Use by Cathleen Crichton-Stuart, September 2018 informs that 30 grams of hemp seeds which is equivalent to 3 tablespoons contain almost 10 grams of complete protein. Complete protein means all 9 essential amino acids or the building blocks of protein are present. It is rare to find a plant source of complete protein making hemp seeds quite special.

Other nutrients abundant in hemp seeds are omega-3 & omega-6 fatty acids, fiber, and a vast assortment of vitamins and minerals. The unique nutrient composition gives hemp seeds anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that benefit every body organ and system and inhibit almost every disease, including rheumatoid arthritis, various cancers, diabetes, brain and neurological disorders, circulatory disorders, eye problems, heart disease, and skin disorders. The fiber content promotes healthy digestion and elimination. Fiber also discourages overeating by giving a sense of fullness.

Hemp seeds come from the same plant as marijuana or Cannabis Sativa. However, it does not contain the psychoactive component trans-delta9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical that facilitates the "high" feeling. The other parts of the hemp plant, such as the flowers, leaves, stems, contain less than 0.3% of the THC and the seeds contain none. Another beneficial chemical found in the hemp plant is Cannabidiol (CBD) which also has multiple beneficial properties. The hemp seeds contain very little to no CBD, but have a higher nutrient content. 

Hemp seeds can be sprinkled on top of or mixed in practically any type of food and blend well with smoothies. The flavor has been described as light, mild, nutty, bitter, and grassy. Some people have said they taste similar to sunflower seeds. They can be eaten raw or cooked, whole or ground, powdered or as a beverage. Hemp milk is a very nourishing way it is consumed and proven more nutritious than almond milk. Hemp seeds can also have their oil extracted and taken as a supplement. In addition, hemp is frequently used in hair and skin products for conditioning/beautification purposes.

FYI

My experience with taking hemp oil supplements has been overall positive. I notice increased mental sharpness, higher energy levels, less aches & pains, and a sense of well-being. Yet, I strongly advise taking the recommended dosage and starting with a low dose when taking for the first time. The first time I started taking hemp seed oil, I foolishly ignored the instructions on the package and took more than what was recommended. Shortly afterwards, I began having increasingly weird dreams that bordered on being nightmares. I knew those dreams were not normal for me and were influenced by something else. Fortunately, I made the connection between the dreams and the hemp oil and I stopped taking it for awhile, then, restarted at a reduced dosage. I have not experienced anything like that since...The hemp seeds may not contain the psychoactive ingredient THC, but, it can have a hallucinogenic impact when not taken properly.

"The key to a healthy life is having a healthy mind."  Richard Davidson