Sunday, July 4, 2010

Hemp Hearts

It makes perfect sense that seeds should be nutritionally dense. They are designed to store and provide all the necessary building materials for new life to originate and germinate.

The term "nut" is used loosely and at times incorrectly to classify the edible seed of a fruit. The proper scientific distinction between certain seeds and fruits is irrelevant in our circumstance, as the culinary use is what is of interest.

The hazelnut


Nuts and seeds in general have a good amount of fat and protein, anywhere from 1.5-2 to 1 in ratio, respectively. The higher amount of fat is often misconstrued as high calorie and fattening. This is of course true at the extreme, but what is important to note is that the majority of fat is monounsaturated. The body requires this type of fat for various bodily functions and it is not of the artery clogging variety. Furthermore, having good fat levels helps curb the appetite, specifically carb cravings.

The now domesticated almond


Thus we arrive at the hemp seed.


First we must deal with a few misconceptions:
1. Hemp hearts contain less than trace amounts of THC. It differs from the well known subspecies C. sativa subsp. indica . Hemp is Cannabis sativa L. subsp. sativa var. sativa.

2. Hemp hearts are more nutritious than processed hemp protein, the waste remains of the dehulling and oil extraction process.

3. Hemp is not just for hippies, it is sustainable and was used for centuries for its fiber's properties and its seeds nutritional benefits.

Note the differences in subspecies

Indica's well known "medicinal" form



What makes hemp hearts a miracle food?

First, they contain decent proportions of your macronutrients- fat, protein and carbs.

Second, fat content is of the valuable polyunsaturated variety. More specifically omega 3s and 6s.

Moreover, the omega 6 to 3 ratios are very favourable, similar to the ratios found in the human body. Oils such as olive oil contain a much higher ratio, which scientists consider to be too high if above moderation. So don't go overboard on your Mediterranean diet.

Third, fiber content is good. This means BMs will be regular.

Eat your hemp.

Here's a hemp oil recipe.

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