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Hemp
is a nutritional powerhouse. A single serving of this superfood supplies the body with fiber, magnesium, essential fatty acids, phosphorus, calcium, protein, and much more. In fact, hemp contains all eight essential amino acids. Which means hemp is a complete protein.
Because hemp products only contain trace amounts of THC, there is no associated psychoactivity. This is because hemp contains less than 0.3% THC. Cannabis, on the other hand, tests between 5-28% THC for the most potent strains. So while hemp will not produce a psychoactive effect, it does possess a number of noteworthy health benefits.
Health Benefits of Hemp
Hemp supplies the body with a broad range of health benefits including but not limited to:
- Improved circulation
- Lower cholesterol
- Increased energy
- Reduced Inflammation
- Faster muscle recovery
- Improved immunity
7 Health Foods Made From Hemp
1) Hemp Seeds
Available shelled or hulled, hemp seeds are a nutritious food source. Hemp seeds are rich in linolenic acid (omega-3) and linoleic acid (omega-6). A single
hemp seed contains over 30% fat!
This perfect ratio of fatty acids in hemp seeds produces a heart protective effect. Research indicates that hemp seed actually normalizes platelet aggregation.
The heart benefits don’t end there. In addition to preventing platelet aggregation, the unique amino acid profile of hemp seeds increases nitric oxide production in the body, widening the blood vessels. This in turn improves circulation, which means hemp seeds can help lower your blood pressure.
Hemp seeds can be best described as having a “nutty” flavor. Some people compare the taste of a hemp seed to that of a sunflower seed.
2) Hemp Oil
Hemp oil is versatile and nutritious. Made from raw hemp seeds, hemp oil contains iron, potassium, and Vitamin E antioxidants. Not to be confused with cannabis oil, hemp oil lacks many of the critical cannabinoids and terpenes present in cannabis oil.
However, because of its outstanding nutritional profile, hemp oil can be incorporated into a variety of recipes. Searching for a healthy salad topper? Hemp oil is a great option. It’s easy to use and mixes with most dishes. In fact, from a nutritional standpoint, hemp oil is superior to olive and flaxseed oil. Simple but healthy ideas include smoothies, salad dressings, and raw vegetables.
3) Hemp Milk
Say goodbye to soy and rice milk for good with hemp milk. Hemp milk is not only a nutritious alternative to dairy; it’s delicious. Hemp milk has a creamy consistency with a slightly nutty flavor, similar to almond milk. It can be made at home or purchased at some health stores.
Keep in mind that while vanilla or chocolate hemp milk is available, these can be packed with sugar. The healthiest option then is to make your own hemp milk. Luckily, it is easier than you think. Hemp milk can be made in less than 5 minutes! Simply combine hemp seeds with water, and blend. Although hemp milk can be drunk plain, it also can be added to smoothies or grains.
4) Hemp Butter
Did you know you could be using hemp butter instead of peanut butter? Packed with flavor, hemp butter is great on toast, crackers, and apple slices. It can be sweet or nutty depending on your preference. For those who prefer a sweeter spread, honey or dates can be added. Similar to natural peanut butter, hemp butter builds up oil so it must be stirred and stored in the fridge.
5) Hemp Smoothies
One of the easiest ways to incorporate hemp into your diet is by drinking it. Hemp smoothies are filling due to the high concentration of fiber. Plus, they provide numerous health benefits because of the good fat content.
How to make a hemp smoothie? You can use hemp seeds or hemp protein powder. Simply mix the hemp product with your favorite vegetables and fruit. Then,
blend and enjoy. Check out these healthy hemp infusions below:
- Strawberry Hemp Seed Smoothie
- Kale, Banana, Chia, Hemp Superfood Smoothie
- Blueberry Mango Hemp Smoothie
Hemp smoothies can be made within minutes. Numerous people have reported higher energy levels and increased focus after consumption. Stick to natural and organic fruits and vegetables in your hemp smoothies to reap the full health effects.
6) Hemp Granola
While you may know that making your own granola is healthier than purchasing it, did you know you could be adding hemp to it? Hemp granola is full of healthy fats and proteins.
Hemp granola can be made with hemp hearts or hemp seeds. It can be mixed with nuts, seeds, and natural sweeteners such as maple syrup or honey. Hemp is versatile and can easily be incorporated into just about any combination you can imagine!
Here are a few recipes to get you started:
- Coconut Hemp Granola
- Almond and Hemp Seed Granola
- Pistachio and Hemp Granola
Be sure to store your hemp granola in an airtight container.
7) Hemp Protein Powder
Hemp protein is cholesterol-free and high in magnesium. Unlike whole hemp seeds or hemp oil, hemp protein powder is fat-free. Hemp powder’s rich protein content make it the perfect addition to shakes. Use a scoop of hemp protein powder in your smoothie. Or, you can add the powder to your yogurt, cereal, or juice. Hemp protein powder can also be used as a substitute for flour. Hemp flour is gluten-free and nutritionally rich. Although hemp protein powder may tint your food with a green hue, don’t be alarmed. This is due to hemp’s high chlorophyll content – so green is good!
These are just a few of the many ways to incorporate hemp into your daily diet. Whether you prefer smoothies, granola, or milk there is a hemp recipe for you.
You can find hemp seeds, hemp protein powder, and hemp hearts in most natural food stores. You can also order these products online. However, always review the quality before purchasing. Not all hemp products are created equally.
Have a favorite hemp infusion? Comment with your favorite hemp recipe below and share this article to spread the nutritious benefits of hemp.
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