The health benefits of hemp

On the Sunday 12 November last year, hemp was legalised in Australia for human consumption. Health experts have been singing the praises of hemp protein and hemp food for years, but this plant tends to be a little misunderstood. In actual fact, hemp seed oil has been used as a food or medicine in China for over 3000 years! So don’t think this superfood is just another ‘flavour of the month’.

Hemp has long been associated with marijuana, but hemp actually contains little to no THC – so unlike cannabis, you won’t experience a high if you consume it and it won’t show up on a drug test. So if you’re looking to boost your health, don’t be afraid to harness the power of hemp and hemp protein! Here’s why hemp protein is causing a stir…

Hemp is super nutritious

According to Hemp Foods Australia, hemp is exceptionally rich in healthy fats, protein and various minerals. Hemp also boasts high amounts of soluble and insoluble fiber, which may benefit digestive health. Whole hemp seeds also contain more than 30 per cent healthy fats and are exceptionally rich in Omega 3, which is key for optimum brain function, growth and development. A diet rich in Omega 3 has also been shown to contribute to reducing inflammation, heart disease, blood pressure and depression. In short? It’s a superfood you need to start paying attention to.

Hemp makes for excellent protein

Hemp seeds are said to be the second highest source of whole vegetable protein, containing all 21 essential amino acids rich in Omega 3. In fact, hemp contains more protein than both chia seeds and flaxseeds! So if you’re looking for an all-natural alternative to your go-to whey protein, look no further.

Hemp is easy to incorporate into your diet

If you’re not keen on hemp protein, don’t rule out hemp altogether – it can be used in a number of ways, such as added to a smoothie, salad or as a simple meal ingredient. Thanks to its mild, slightly nutty flavour, hemp can be added to almost anything, including soup stock, burgers, or nut butters. It can even be used to for baking, as hemp flour can replace some flours in recipes.

But to get you started, we’ve included a healthy smoothie recipe from Maz Valcorza for Hemp Foods Australia – and it doesn’t even require a blender! Give it a try and happy hemping beauties!

Chocolate Protein Smoothie

Macros Per Serve:

Calories: 266 kcal Net Carbs: 3 grams Protein: 23 grams Fat: 14 grams

Makes: 1 Serving

Total Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

1 tbsp cacao powder (bh loves: Nature’s Way Super Organic Cacao Powder)

2 heaped tbsp (20g) hemp protein (bh loves: Hemp Foods Australia Hemp Protein Powder, $59.95 for 1kg, hempfoods.com.au).

500ml your favourite plant-based milk

Stevia to taste

Method

1. Place all ingredients into a high-speed blender or shaker and blend on high speed or shake until well combined.

2. Pour into a glass or jar if using a blender and enjoy mindfully. You can also top it with chocolate or cacao nibs (bh loves:Nature’s Way Super Organic Cacao Nibs) for that extra bit of love.

For further information about hemp and more delicious recipes visit hempfoods.com.au.

Have you tried hemp or hemp protein?

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