Finally, hemp is getting the respect it deserves as a “superfood.” DietsInReview.com has the low-down on the new trend towards the nutrient-dense, incredibly nutritious plant:
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This particularly trusty strain of Cannabis has been besmirched by its illicit cousin marijuana, a cultivar of Cannabis that is smoked for recreational purposes. Hemp has a microscopic and harmless amount of THC—the chemical in marijuana that gets you high—and has an extremely versatile skill set.From nutritious foodstuffs to composite plastics for automobiles, hemp can be used for more than kitschy, hippy jewelry. In addition to its wide range of applications, the hemp crop is easily cultivated; its water and soil purification properties help to renew farm fields and can even kill weeds. Unfortunately, industrial hemp has been illegal to grow in the U.S. since 1958—save Colorado, of course—and can only be enjoyed legally by importing hemp products from Canada or other parts of the world.
Hemp is naturally rich in essential fatty acids (EFAs), including the rare EFA known as Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA), and has the perfect 3:1 ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Hemp is considered a complete vegetarian protein (because it contains all the amino acids), is high in fiber, and has an impressive array of essential vitamins and minerals in addition to their many EFAs:
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Sharon Palmer, RD, dietitian and author of The Plant-Powered Diet, told us that “Plant Omega-3s have heart health and anti-inflammatory benefits.” She explained the plethora of ways hemp can be infused in a diet, too. “With its soft, sesame seed-like appearance and nutty flavor, you can sprinkle hemp seeds into cereals, salads, breads, casseroles, and desserts.”
Read more at DietsInReview.com and check out US Hemp Oil’s “Hemp 101” facts here.
