What's all the HEMP about?
Hemp – marijuana’s nutritious cousin!
Hemp has been cultivated for thousands of years and is a staple in Asian diets. Hemp seeds come from the cannabis plant but contain very minimal amounts (less than 0.35%) of the psycho-active ingredient tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) – so much so that the seeds became legal for sale and human consumption in November 2018. The plant leaves contain significantly higher amounts of THC (around 20-30%) which contribute to the recreational and in some cases medicinal effects.
Eco-friendly crop
Hemp absorbs carbon dioxide while it grows, making it a carbon negative crop and also generally doesn’t require herbicides or pesticides due to their broad leaves suppressing weeds.
Nutrition
Hemp seeds are a good source of omega 3 and 6 which play a role in skin health, energy production, nervous system function, brain development, heart health and immune system support. They also provide almost 10g of protein in just 3 tablespoons AND contain all essential amino acids, which is uncommon in plant-based proteins (making it a great source for vegetarians and vegans).
They are also a good source of fibre, particularly if consuming the whole hemp seed (with the hull intact), and are rich in antioxidants and nutrients such as vitamins B & E, and magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, iron and zinc.
To eat or not to eat?
More and more hemp-containing products are appearing on supermarket shelves - porridge, peanut butters, snack bars and cereals - but do take a closer look at the ingredient list, just because it has hemp added, doesn’t necessarily make it a healthy product.
Hemp seeds have a nutty flavour and buttery texture, similar to pine nuts. These seeds can be used similarly to chia seeds or LSA to boost the protein and nutrition of a meal - sprinkle on porridge, granola, rice or veges; add to smoothies, salads or baking; press into an oil for dressings OR make into hemp milk by soaking and grinding in water. Just watch out for the commercial versions of hemp milk that often have added fullers and sweeteners.
Bottom line
The research suggesting hemp health benefits such as improving inflammation, insulin sensitivity, memory and regulating appetite and metabolism often uses seed extracts with much higher concentrations than would be consumed through food. However, these seeds can contribute towards good nutrition if consumed in conjunction with a diet based on healthy, whole foods.