Healthy Ingredient Spotlight: Hemp

It’s a new month and it’s time for a new healthy ingredient spotlight. Since it’s also Hemp History Week from June 3-9 let’s talk about, you guessed it – hemp! Considered a superfood for its collection of health benefits, you may be surprised at how simple it is to add hemp to your diet. Most of us have a pretty good idea where hemp comes from: cannabis plants. But did you know that cannabis has been cultivated for over 10,000 years? In addition to its medicinal qualities, the cannabis plant also offers fibers to make ropes, clothing, and paper products as well as food in the form of oil and seeds. It’s a pretty dynamic plant, which is why it dates back to before recorded history. For now let’s focus on the health benefits of hemp seeds and oils.

Amazing Heart Helper

Hemp contains a ton of essential fatty acids, as well as omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can help to reduce plaque build-up and reduce inflammation for lower cholesterol and blood pressure. These factors combine so your heart doesn’t have to work so hard, giving it (and you) a longer life.

Gorgeous Skin

You’ll often find hemp oil as an ingredient in quality cosmetics, and for good reason. Hemp oil can penetrate the skin more easily than other types of oil to help you obtain softer, smoother skin. It can also benefit those with skin conditions such as psoriasis or eczema.

Weight Management

Hemp seeds can help you feel full, longer, all while delivering a ton of nutrients, protein, and fiber. By adding a few tablespoons of hemp seeds to your morning meal, you can avoid unhealthy snacks throughout the day yet have a consistent source of energy to keep you going.

Complete Protein

Hemp is a complete protein and is one of the most easily digestible plant proteins that we know of. It contains all 20 essential amino acids required to create muscle and tissue, which is why it is a perfect addition to vegan and vegetarian diets. Hemp oil and seeds can be found pretty much anywhere these days – so no excuses! Look for hemp oil in the fridge section as it needs to keep cool. Add the oil anywhere you need it and sprinkle some hemp seeds on as well for a double dose of healthy fats!