Hemp seeds, often referred to as hemp hearts, have a very distinct, mild nutty flavor, and the oil has a strong grassy flavor, but aside from the flavor profile, different hemp products used for their nutritional value have incredible amounts of proteins, just like chia seeds and soybeans do. Hemp seeds are considered to be a complete protein source; which means that they have all the necessary amino acids. In fact, more than 25% of their total calories are from high-quality protein. Most people are new to the idea of hemp as a food, but hemp can be a part of your diet in different forms such as hemp seeds, hemp milk, hemp oil, hemp cheese substitutes, and hemp protein powder. Hemp seeds can be used in numerous recipes; raw, cooked, or roasted.
The human body cannot produce amino acids, so we must obtain them from our diets. And while we can easily obtain proteins from foods such as beef or eggs, people on plant-based diets need proteins too. Hemp seeds are a great source of protein, and they have sufficient amounts of the amino acids methionine and cysteine, as well as very high levels of arginine and glutamic acid.
Hemp seeds are also a great source of soluble fiber and insoluble fiber (20% and 80% respectively). Soluble fiber is highly beneficial for digestive bacteria. It regulates blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. Insoluble fiber, which adds bulk to your stool, helps waste pass through your gut without any problems, and it has been known to reduce the risk of diabetes. If you want to obtain fiber from hemp, it is essential that you get hemp seeds that are not de-hulled or shelled because the shell of the hemp hearts is the part that contains fiber.
Precautions
Hemp as a protein is easily digestible, better than protein from legumes, grains, and nuts. However, when using hemp, you need to use it in moderation, even though the benefits are exceptional. This is because hemp seeds contain significant amounts of fat, and a sudden increase in fat by overeating hemp can cause diarrhea. If you are just starting to incorporate hemp to your diet, start small, and build your way up to avoid stomach upsets.
Eating hemp seeds can block platelet formation and negatively react with anticoagulant medication, therefore causing higher chances of bleeding. It is therefore crucial that you do not use hemp seeds if you are on anticoagulant medication, or seek medical advice from your doctor before using large amounts of hemp.
Storage
For hemp seeds to remain highly nutritious, they need to be stored in an airtight container which should be kept in a cool and dry area such as a pantry. The fatty acids in hemp seeds can be destroyed in high temperatures. It is therefore essential that shelled hemp seeds are not heated at a temperature above 350 Degrees Fahrenheit.
