Hemp is the name given to the varieties of the Cannabis Sativa plant and the name of the fiber obtained from them, which has, among many others, textile uses.
Hemp seed is rich in protein, omega 3, 6 and 9 essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and enzymes. The ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 essential fatty acids in hemp is 4:1, reflecting the primitive needs of the human race 2.5 million years ago. 30% of the seed is oil that contains these essential fatty acids that the human body is unable to manufacture, so they must be obtained through a balanced diet.
It also contains 25% highly digestible vegetable protein, containing the 9 essential amino acids that our body cannot produce. Provides minerals: magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, sulfur. It is a very good source of manganese, which precisely helps metabolize essential fatty acids. For a seed, it contains quite a bit of zinc, calcium, iron, and vitamin A, as well as plenty of dietary fiber.
Raw fats, which we eat from seeds, nuts or avocados, do not produce the saturation and obstruction effect (coronary diseases) that cooked fats (saturated fats) produce, but on the contrary, these fats reduce cholesterol, they clean the arteries and can even help you lose weight. Therefore, they are fats that we must include in our diet if we want to maintain a healthy and balanced diet.
In some countries you will not be able to find them: they are illegal, due to their connection with marijuana.
How to incorporate them into food
Hemp seeds can be consumed in different formats: in the form of whole peeled seeds, in the form of oil or in the form of milk.
Peeled Hemp Seeds: Sold by the Linwoods brand in some countries and found in health and diet stores. Hemp seed has a very hard shell that is impossible to chew, which is why they are sold already peeled. They can be added as a complement to any meal of the day, from a fruit salad to a more elaborate dish.
Hemp Oil: Hemp oil can be found in some herbal stores. Its peculiarity is that it is considered one of the healthiest oils that exists, since it is composed of 80% essential fatty acids. It is an excellent source of Omega 3 and Omega 6 that prevents cardiovascular diseases, reduces cholesterol, blood pressure and helps improve arthritis symptoms. It is used like any oil, so it can be added to salads or any dish, even desserts such as cookies or raw vegan cakes.
Hemp milk: To make hemp milk you can follow the same instructions as for making canary seed milk. See recipe here.
Nutritional information of hemp seeds (per 100 g.)
25% Protein.
35% carbohydrates.
35% Oil (Omega 3 and Omega 6 essential fatty acids)
380 kcal.