There has been much talk of late about the health benefits of hemps seeds.  To avoid any confusion however I must clarify, the hemp seeds I’m writing about do not contain THC which is the active ingredient in marijuana. Marijuana and hemp originate from the same plant species Cannabis sativa, however from different varieties. So, no you’re not going to get high from Hemp Seeds however you are going to get healthy!!

Many believe hemp seeds to be one of the most nutritious seeds in the world, and for many reasons.   

Hemp seeds contain:

• a concentrated balance of proteins. These proteins are more readily digested than eggs, meat or dairy products

• an excellent source of essential fatty acids being Omega, 3, 6 and Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA)

• minimal sugars, starches or saturated fats and almost no carbohydrates

• high amounts of Vitamin E

• the only known plant food source of Vitamin D3

• Vitamin B including Folate

• Calcium, Magnesium, Iron and Zinc

• Phytosterols considered to be helpful in lowering cholesterol

• Both soluble and insoluble fibre

Hemp Protein is an amazing source of 20 amino acids and even more importantly contains 9 essential amino acids which our bodies are unable to produce. Interestingly, 30% of hemp seed protein is Albumin which is a globulin protein also found in egg whites. 65% of hemp seed protein is made up of the globulin protein known as Edestin. This particular protein can only be found in hemp seed and is known to aid digestion. This obviously makes hemp seed protein a great protein source for those who have difficulty in digesting protein.

Essential Fatty Acids (EFA’s) are considered to be necessary in our daily diet. Because our bodies do not naturally produce EFA’s they then need to be found in the food we consume. It’s believed the optimum balance of Omega’s is 3:1 ie Omega 6 to Omega 3 and guess what?? Hemp seed contains that perfect balance. EFA’s, particularly Omega 6  may be helpful in decreasing inflammation in our body which of course can be useful for treating arthritis and the many other inflammatory diseases. 

These two EFA’s have other benefits including regulating immune responses in our body.

Hemps Seeds also contain high amounts of the amino acid Arginine which not only has anti-inflammatory benefits but may also help dilate the blood vessels, decreasing hypertension.  Obviously lower blood pressure can be helpful in decreasing the risk of stroke and heart disease. 

If you’re looking for an energy hit, hemp seeds are great to add to your smoothie or muesli in the morning. They obviously are a nutritious start to the day, containing gut cleansing fibre and practically no carbohydrates.

Hemp oil can be used in salad dressings, drizzled over meals, added to smoothies and even used as a skin moisturiser.  Some customers have found hemp oil very helpful for various skin conditions such as dry skin and even eczema.

Hemp Protein has a nutty flavour and is great for smoothies or to add to cooking.

For more information on hemp seeds call to see Bev and the team at Go Vita your health shop in North St in Batemans Bay or phone on 02 44729737.