Elizabeth Bailey
Hemp seeds are rich in vitamins and fiber and are therefore extremely healthy. But the first thing that comes to mind when you think of the name is cannabis. Do hemp seeds have an intoxicating effect? And what’s inside?
Are Hemp Seeds Healthy?
Hemp is now experiencing a true renaissance. For decades it was rather stigmatized, but hemp is healthy and has nothing to do with the stoner cliché.
Hemp is a centuries-old crop that not only has a wide range of uses but is also very beneficial to health. The hemp seeds grow as small nuts on the hemp plant. They are a popular food and even have power food status.
What’s in the hemp seeds?
Hemp seeds contain lots of essential amino acids that the body cannot produce itself. It is all the more important to absorb the essential amino acids through nutrition. In addition to the amino acids, the seeds of the hemp plant also provide a lot of vitamins B1, B2, and E as well as the trace elements calcium, magnesium, potassium, and iron. The small grains also contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids.
However, if you want to lose weight, you should use it sparingly due to the relatively high-calorie content of hemp seeds: 100 grams of the seeds contain 400 kilocalories. But the high proportion of fiber ensures a longer feeling of satiety.
What makes hemp seeds so healthy
The vitamins and trace elements contained in the seeds have several health-promoting properties. Among other things, vitamin B2 supports the normal functioning of the nervous system, while the omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids help the body with cell renewal. Through their nutrients, hemp seeds also promote bone and nerve health, contribute to a balanced cholesterol level, and also strengthen the cardiovascular system.
In addition, hemp seeds strengthen the immune system and can alleviate symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS). PMS is often caused by a nutrient deficiency — a problem that consuming seeds can help address.
The preparation of hemp seeds
If you want to benefit from the healthy seeds of the hemp plant, you can mix them into the dough when baking, for example. They can also simply be sprinkled on mueslis, yogurts, or salads.
What can you make from hemp seeds?
Hemp seeds can be processed into hemp oil, which also offers a variety of health benefits. It can be used both as cooking oil and for cosmetic purposes. However, hemp oil is not suitable for frying and should therefore be used primarily for cold dishes. In addition to hemp oil, hemp flour is also made from seeds. This is not only suitable for baking, but also binding sauces.
Who are cannabis seeds suitable for?
Hemp seeds are digestible for everyone – even people who are allergic to lactose or gluten can access them without hesitation. And don’t worry: the seeds of the hemp plant do not have any intoxicating or hallucinogenic effects.
Consume with a shell or without the shell?
In principle, hemp seeds can be consumed both with and without the shell. If you leave the peel on, the taste is a bit more bitter – but it is also healthier to eat because the peel contains additional nutrients.
Here you can buy cannabis seeds
If you want to refine your cooking with the seeds of the hemp plant, you will find them in health food stores and organic supermarkets. Several providers can also be found on the Internet. As with any natural product, it is also advisable to look out for an organic seal. This guarantees the best possible ecological quality of the product. In contrast to chia seeds, there are hemp seeds from German cultivation – so if you value shorter transport routes and sustainability, you can access the seeds of the hemp plant without hesitation.
The next time you go shopping, it may well be worth keeping your eyes open for hemp seeds: They are healthy, keep you full for a long time and thus help you lose weight.
