Five Reasons to Sprinkle Hemp Seeds on Everything

If hemp seeds — also know as hemp hearts — are not part of your menu, it might be time to make the addition. Why? They have a subtle nutty flavor, top the charts when it comes to protein levels, and are nutritious and versatile.

What’s more, these tiny seeds include vitamin E and minerals like iron, magnesium, and zinc. They’re also a great source of phosphorous, calcium, potassium, and dietary fiber.

Impressive? Definitely! But if you need more reasons to add hemp seeds to your favorite recipes, here you go.

1. Excellent source of protein — Hemp seeds contain both essential and nonessential proteins — just 3 tablespoons (30 grams) contain about 11 grams of easy-to-digest protein! And believe it or not, hemp seeds have even higher protein levels than chia or flax seeds.

2. Good for cells and blood pressure — Hemp seeds are a fantastic source of the sulfur-containing amino acids, methionine, and cysteine, which are vital for normal cell function and protecting your genetic material. They are also rich in arginine, an amino acid that produces nitric oxide. Nitric oxide may help keep your blood pressure normal.

3. High in fiber — Hemp provides both soluble and insoluble fiber. Soluble fiber may help balance blood sugar levels and curb sugar cravings. Insoluble fiber boosts healthy gut bacteria and promotes regular bowel movements.

Pro tip: Only unhulled hemp seeds (where the shells are not removed) are rich in fiber.

4. Healthy fat hero — Hemp seeds may help strike a balance with the right levels of omega- 3 and 6 fats in your diet. Besides these two essential fats, hemp seeds also have gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). GLA is vital to hormonal balance and may reduce the symptoms of PMS and menopause.

5. Fights inflammation — Hemp seeds provide two strong inflammation fighters: arginine and GLA. Inflammation leads to conditions like heart disease, autoimmune disorders, and other degenerative diseases, so adding hemp seeds to your menu at least two times a week is a great way to fight inflammation.

Here’s how to add more hemp to your diet

Sprinkle: Enjoy hemp seeds on salads, soups, smoothies, yogurt, and oatmeal.

Milk it: Use five cups of filtered water to 1/3 cup of hemp seeds. Blend with a pinch of sea salt and vanilla bean. Use a natural sweetener like maple syrup.