Hemp and its undiscovered benefits
We should start with a clarification on which hemp products we are talking about.
Hemp fiber seeds: these seeds are for cooking – hulled seeds, oil, protein, and flour. They have very low levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), which means that this product has no psychotropic effect on the human body.
CBD: This oil is often mixed with hemp seed oil, but CBD is an extract of hemp flowers and is obtained from the flowers rather than the seeds. This oil has been one of the most discussed food products for several years, but so far its production and trade are not legal in Lithuania, so we will not discuss more about it. Let’s take a better look at what we can enjoy 🙂
Hulled hemp seeds
Hulled hemp seeds contain all 9 amino acids that are needed by the human body (this is the basis of protein that our body cannot produce itself). These seeds are an excellent source of protein (25%) needed for the production and regeneration of body tissues. Just 2-3 teaspoons of hulled hemp seeds contain about 11 grams of protein.
They are also rich in good fats (30%), which maintain skin health, nails, and hair. These seeds have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with skin problems such as acne.
Hulled hemp contains vitamin E and minerals such as potassium, magnesium, calcium, and iron.
Hemp protein
Compared to other protein powders, hemp protein has more fatty acids, including a balanced source between Omega-6 and Omega-3. Omega-3 fatty acids are especially beneficial to our nervous system and can help balance mood. To be mentioned, Omega – 3 fatty acids have anti-inflammatory properties, which is especially useful for active people.
Hemp proteins contain vitamins B9 and B1, minerals such as iron, phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese.
Hemp and fiber
Compared to other protein powders, hemp seed protein has a higher amount of fiber, which is crucial for our digestive system and sugar regulation. This helps maintain energy levels and a longer feeling of satiety.
More fiber can be found in unshelled hemp seeds, but hulled seeds and hemp protein also contain them.
How to use it?
Hemp protein has a nutty, but also a slightly greener taste, so I usually use them in fruit smoothies or put them in porridge along with cocoa powder to balance the taste. A few years ago, I noticed that my skin health improved when I started to restrict the consumption of dairy products. So, plant-based protein powders became my good friends 🙂
As for hulled hemp seeds, they are my # 1. They have a very mild texture and a light nutty taste, which allows them to be added anywhere: on salads, porridges, in cocktails or sometimes I just eat a teaspoon of them alone.
Hemp protein is one of our Energy mix ingredients. Read more about it here.