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 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 genus Cannabis (fortunately, the varieties of oilseeds and fibers of 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). , contain all the essential amino acids and most of the essential fatty acids necessary for human health. This means that they are a reliable plant source of complete proteins and healthy, unsaturated fats.
Approximately 40% of the seed weight is made up of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and 33% is made up of protein, surpassed only by soybean, which contains 35% protein. However, the protein found in hemp seeds is easier to digest and more easily absorbed. They are also a wonderful source of dietary fiber (which helps create the bulk of the stool and provides feelings of fullness), along with calcium, iron, useful trace elements, and electrolytes. It is also considered one of the safest foods to eat, as it is gluten-free, and can be eaten by people with any other food intolerances (such as lactose, sugar, or gluten), while there are no known allergies. .
Yet this seemingly remarkable and widespread plant product has been largely ignored as a potential nutritional source for humans. In fact, a recent study has shown that more than 95% of all hemp seeds sold in Europe are turned into animal feed. However, there are countless ways to use and prepare it, and the options only end with our imaginations. 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 products. The seed’s mild, nutty flavor makes it an excellent addition to desserts and smoothies. Furthermore, delicious vegan ice creams 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 very 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 smoke 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 exposed, hemp seeds are still largely considered a non-food product in many countries, and as a result are not typically sold in grocery stores.
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