Hemp nutrition - what we know

July 9 2020

Hemp seed is a natural and nutritious food source that is making a big resurgence in what seems like a seed revolution.

The fact that the plant is so resistant to pests means it can be grown without pesticides or herbicides making it less likely to contain harmful chemicals.The hemp seed can be processed into hulled hearts, oil, flour, protein powder and even hemp milk.

CBD oil can also be extracted from the hemp plant and has a number of health benefits. Let’s break down the nutritional values of the hemp seed: It's packed full of protein - hemp seed is a great plant-based source of protein and contains all the essential amino acids the body needs.

I started adding Hemp seed protein powder and Hemp seed oil to my smoothies. The Omega-6 & Omega-3 ratio is optimal and so good for you! Remember, Hemp seeds don't have Cannabinoids. The plant grows those when it grows.
— Stephanie J. - SinceDay3.com (@SinceDayThree) August 17, 2020

Further to this, the lack of phytates in hemp seed makes it easier for the body to absorb the protein (phytic acid or phytates are antioxidant compounds found in whole grains, nuts and seeds that can slow down the absorption of some dietary minerals).

The powder made from hemp seed varies from around 50-65% protein and is less processed than nearly all other alternatives and is a good source of fibre. Fibre plays an essential role in your digestive health, with whole hemp seeds containing 20% soluble and 80% insoluble fibre.

Soluble fibre helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels and insoluble fibre helps food and waste pass through the stomach. Most of this fibre however is in the shell so hulled hearts contain little fibre. Fatty acids - hemp seed contains omega-3 & 6 fatty acids along with stearidonic (SDA) and gamma linoleic (GLA) acids.

All these fatty acids have been linked in helping prevent heart disease and protecting your immune system by fighting inflammation. Other minerals and antioxidants - hemp seeds are rich in magnesium, iron, calcium, zinc, copper, phosphorus and manganese. They also contains compounds called lignanamides which are an antioxidant and phytosterols which help reduce cholesterol levels.

Hemp seeds can be consumed in a few different processes from hemp seed oil, hulled hearts, flour and protein powders. All of these are a great plant-based source of healthy nutrition.