What are hemp seeds? Hemp seeds are seeds from the hemp plant Cannabis Sativa. Not to be confused with cannabis (Marijuana), same species, different variety (no psychoactive properties).
Hemp seeds are technically a nut. They have an indescribably delicious mild nutty flavor, soft and chewy when eaten raw from the package. Not only are they rich in omega 3 fatty acids, they are also a great source of protein, 25% of the calories. It's a great way to get some healthy fats and protein into your diet.
Fun Fact: Did you know that hemp was one of the first crops to be cultivated and spun into useable Fiber? It was more durable than cotton, and better for the environment. Unfortunately it was banned in 1937 due to the cannabis marijuana variety (containing psychoactive properties) being classified as a narcotic.
The best way I utilize these seeds is to make hemp milk. It takes no time to make, and doesn't have any binding ingredients such as: Guar gum, Gellan gum, and Carrageenan. All grocery nut milks contain these ingredients, which can cause gastrointestinal problems in some people. For me personally, consuming anything containing guar gum makes me severely nauseous.
Another way I like to use hemp seeds is to put them directly into my fruit smoothies. It gives the smoothie a nice creamy texture with a hint of nutty flavor. So the next time you need to get some healthy fats and protein into your diet, grab some hemp seeds and throw them in to a smoothie, on to a salad, into baked goods, or make some home made hemp milk.
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