Hemp hearts – the perfect nickname for the nutritious hemp seed with its mild, nutty flavour, that is technically a nut.
Hemp seeds contain over 30 per cent fat. They are exceptionally rich in two essential fatty acids, linoleic acid (omega-6) and alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). This 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 may benefit skin diseases and provide relief from eczema and dry skin and reduce itchiness and potentially the need for skin medication.
Hemp seeds are also a great source of arginine and gamma-linolenic acid, which have been linked with a reduced risk of heart disease.
Hemp hearts are a great protein source, as more than 25 per cent of their total calories are from high-quality protein. That is considerably more than similar foods like chia seeds and flaxseeds, which provide about 16–18 per cent.
Rich in vitamin E and minerals such as phosphorus, potassium, sodium, magnesium, sulfur, calcium, iron and zinc, whole hemp seeds also contain high amounts of fibre, both soluble and insoluble, which benefits digestive health. De-hulled hemp seeds have had the fibre-rich shell removed, and therefore contain very little fibre.
Hemp seeds can be consumed raw, cooked or roasted. Hemp seed oil is also very healthy, and has been used as a food/medicine in China for at least 3,000 years.
Overall, hemp seeds are incredibly good for you. They might just be one of the few superfoods that are actually worthy of their reputation.
Pop over to Juiced @ The Wicket for our $5 ‘Hearty Hemp’ smoothie special this week and find out for yourself what all the fuss is about!
