The next superfood has arrived ….

Hemp seed benefits are many, they have an excellent nutritional profile, and are a sustainable and affordable source of protein. For a long time the value of hemp seeds as part of a healthy balanced diet has gone unnoticed due to their origin, the Cannabis plant.

Although marijuana comes from the same plant, hemp seeds only contain a trace amount of THC, the active ingredient in marijuana, and they will not get you high. In fact, hemp seeds are safe and very healthy to eat.

Up until late 2017 Hemp Seeds where still banned for human consumption in Australia – but now that has changed, and you will start to see them on every hipster café menu in the next 12 months…. especially those targeted towards plant based eating.

The top 3 hemp seed benefits for athletes :

1. The nutritional profile of hemp seeds is excellent – containing all 9 of the essential amino acids that we must eat in diet – they are an excellent “complete” protein. They are extremely beneficial for people following a plant based diet.
2. They also contain an excellent balance essential fatty acids that are important for hormonal health and cardiovascular health. Specifically they contain a high level of Gamma-Linolenic acid (GLA) – a necessary building block for some prostaglandins — hormone-like chemicals in the body that help smooth muscles, control inflammation and body temperature, and are vital to other body functions. Due the their rich essential fatty acid profile they are also an excellent inclusion in the diet for those with skin related issues such as eczema, psoriasis and rosacea.
3. They are low in carbohydrates and high in protein and healthy fats, are an eco –friendly crop and an extremely affordable and versatile food.

So how do you eat them ?

1. They are perfect sprinkled on top of muesli or porridge, added to a smoothie or a topping to add to avocado on toast. They are an excellent way to boost your protein at breakfast time. 2 Tablespoons contains 8 gms of protein – about the same as an egg.
2. They can also be added to salads and soups, (great for lunch time ) and to recipes such as muffins, pancakes, dips, breads etc. They have a very mild nutty flavour and are extremely versatile to use and include on a regular basis.
3. You can also get hemp oil to use for salad dressings and hemp protein powder for smoothies (though you can just use the seeds)

If you are keen to try them I suggest starting with the hemps seeds – enjoy !