Hemp seeds, a vegetarian source of protein with hidden nutritional benefits.
Hemp seeds come from the cannabis plant and are the fruits of the plant. Cannabis plants are considered illegal because of their psychotropic effects linked to the THC molecule contained in greater quantities in the leaves and flowers of the plants, yet this plant has rich unsuspected benefits for the body. This small seed, once opened, is edible for humans without the neuroleptic effects that certain parts of the plant can produce.
Treadwell Farms - Parts of the Cannabis Plant [1]
Hemp seeds, a great source of protein.
Rich in protein - around 30g of protein per 100g, it contains the 9 essential amino acids for the proper functioning of the human body, these amino acids that we cannot produce ourselves and must look for in food.
It is important to know that proteins are the essence of the human body's creation and functioning. Beyond its publicly known role in building muscle tissue, proteins are essential for metabolism and contribute to the body's enzymatic reactions, hormone receptor/messenger function, immune defences, energy production of the body and many more. Therefore, proteins play an important role in nutrition through their effects on weight regulation and appetite stability.
The other benefits of hemp seeds
Hemp seeds are rich in:
essential fatty acid (omega 6 and 3 ratios 3:1)
manganese
zinc
copper
magnesium
fibre
iron
With a very good omega 6 and 3 ratio (3:1), hemp seeds, like walnuts, are a food that promotes brain health and helps maintain cognitive activity.
Recent studies also associate Terpenes, components contained in hemp seeds, with brain health through their anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and anti-carcinogenic properties. [2]
Like any food and depending on your digestive system, it is preferable to balance the daily doses to avoid any discomfort and overdose of certain minerals which can be factors of undesirable effects such as bloating, diarrhoea, and nausea. For those reasons, it is better to incorporate hemp seeds gradually in your diet, starting with 1 tablespoon and increasing to 3 depending on how you react and your other daily food intake.
You can easily incorporate nutritious hemp seeds into your daily diet by adding them to smoothies for a creamy texture, mixing them into your breakfast oatmeal for added flavor and nutrients, or sprinkling them on top of fresh salads to enhance both taste and crunch.
[1] Parts of the Cannabis Plant - https://www.treadwellfarms.com/blogs/cbd-education/parts-of-the-cannabis-plant-unique-attributes-and-uses-abound
[2] Terpenes as Potential Anti-Alzheimer’s Disease Agents - https://www.mdpi.com/2076-3417/14/9/3898
