Hemp Seed Nutrition: Learn the Benefits of Hemp Seed
Nutrition and Benefits of Hemp Seed
Hemp seed comes from the plant cannabis sativa and has been used by man for hundreds of years. Hemp seed from plants that can be bought legally differs from cannabis plants that are illegal (marijuana). Marijuana contains high levels of THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), the psychoactive substance that gets one high. Legal hemp seed does not contain traceable amounts of THC.
Hemp seed nutrition is remarkable. It is a perfect protein supplement because it contains all the essential amino acids our bodies need (ones our bodies can not make). No other single source of plant has all of these proteins that are so easily digested.
Hemp seed is a great source of omega-3 and omega-6 (essential fatty acids) and provides an ideal balance between the two. It is also a very good source of omega-9. These healthy fats are not stored in our bodies so it is important to consume sufficient amounts daily.
*Hemp Seed Nutrition (hulled hemp seeds)
- Calories/100 g 567
- Protein 30.6
- Carbohydrate 10.9
- Dietary fiber 6
- Fat 47.2
- Saturated fat 5.2
- Monounsaturated fat 5.8
- Oleic 18:1 (Omega-9) 5.8
- Polyunsaturated fat 36.2
- Linoleic 18:2 (Omega-6) 27.6
- Linolenic 18:3 (Omega-3) 8.7
- Linolenic 18:3 (Omega-6) 0.8
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Vitamin A (B-Carotene) 4 IU
- Thiamine (Vit B1) 1 mg
- Riboflavin (Vit B2) 1 mg
- Vitamin C 1.0 mg
- Vitamin E 9 IU
- Sodium 9 mg
- Calcium 74 mg
- Iron 4.7 mg
Because of all these nutrients, the benefits of hemp seed are numerous.
Amino acids are called the “building blocks of life” because they rebuild and repair tissues and organs. Amino acids are needed for growth and maintenance, enzymes and hormones, antibodies, fluid balance, salt balance, acid-base balance, energy, and so much more.
Omega fatty acids offer many benefits. They help in weight loss because they produce long-term appetite satisfaction and they also help the cardiovascular, immune, reproductive, and central nervous systems on a minute to minute basis every day.
Other benefits of hemp seed come from the fiber content (which is important for the digestive system) and the many vitamins and minerals, including antioxidants (such as vitamins A, C, and E).
Hemp seeds have a nutty flavor and can be eaten raw. You can add them to baked goods, salads, dips, and sauces. You can also combine with your favorite fruits and blend to make a refreshing smoothie.
*Source (hemp seed nutrition): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hemp
Photo Credit
Cannabis sativa image in the pubic domain.
Disclaimer
Please read this disclaimer regarding the information contained within this article.