For the past 83 years, the federal government has been convincing the American public that the words “hemp” and “marijuana” are synonymous. However, hemp contains virtually no THC, and the seeds of this plant are full of essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients.
Scientists believe the first hemp seeds came from wild plants. There is evidence that it become a domesticated crop along with many other wild grains up to 10,000 ago. Hemp appears in many cultures, most especially Chinese Medicine. Today putting hemp seeds in smoothies has become more than trendy, it has become a source of good nutrition.
It’s the Hemp Seeds That Are Filled with Nutrition
The fibers of hemp stalks are as strong as steel and perfect for the manufacture of rope, canvas, and cloth. But it is the hemp seeds that pack the most nutritional value. When it comes to superfoods, these tiny little seeds might not seem like they would be part of the family. However, these nutty-tasting seeds pack a lot of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. They also contain a healthy dose of gamma nucleic acid (GMA) and Stearidonic Acid (SDA).
If You Haven’t Tried Hemp Seed Smoothies Yet, Read On!
There are many reasons to put hemp seeds in smoothies, but these are some of the best reasons we know of.
Protein
Hemp seeds are an excellent complete source of protein, which is part of what makes them a superfood. In 30 grams of hemp seeds (3 tablespoons), there are 9.46 grams of protein. As a complete source of protein, the seeds contain all nine of the essential amino acids your body needs. Your body must get these amino acids through diet as your body cannot produce them.
Fatty Acids
Also known as polyunsaturated fats, the benefits of both Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids are well known. Much like amino acids, your body does not produce its own essential fatty acids. Adding 2 or 3 tablespoons to your hemp seed smoothie is an excellent way to make sure you’re getting enough. In one study, researchers fed a selection of hens a diet high in this fatty acid. The team found the hen’s eggs to be higher in Omega 3 and much healthier
Fiber
If you are going to put hemp seeds in your smoothies, be sure to get them with the un-hulled. These seeds are a wonderful source of fiber, but you get more if you leave the hulls intact. That same 30 grams of hemp seeds contains 1.2 grams of dietary fiber.
Fiber helps:
- Reduce your appetite
- With weight management
- Promote a healthy gut
- Stabilize your blood sugar levels  Â
Hemp Seeds are Full of Nutrients
Although your current smoothies have plenty of vitamins and minerals based on the ingredients you choose, you need more. In fact, even if you were to get to many, your body would simply dispose of them.
Hemp seeds contain:
- folate
- magnesium
- niacin
- phosphorous
- potassium
- riboflavin
- thiamine
- vitamin B-6
- vitamin E
What Does All This Mean
It means when you put hemp in smoothies, you are doing some amazing things for your body.
Good for Your Brain
According to a study from Food Chemistry, hemp seed extract behaves as if it has antioxidant properties. Cannabidiol (CBD) and many of the other compounds found in the seeds have anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties.
In a study from 2018, researchers believe that CBD can help with:
- Alzheimer’s Disease
- Parkinson’s Disease
- Childhood Seizure Disorders
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Neuropathic Pain
Good for Your Heart
The high levels of Omega 3 fatty acids may help improve overall heart-healthy. They can also reduce the risk of heart disease and arrhythmias. Hemp seeds also contain high levels of arginine. Arginine is an amino acid that turns into nitric oxide in your body.
Your body needs nitric oxide to assist in the dilation of veins and arteries. It also helps them retain their elasticity and their walls smooth. Putting hemp seeds in smoothies is a very tasty way for you to reduce your risk of heart disease and keep your blood pressure low.
Hemp Seeds as an Anti-inflammatory
Not only do hemp seeds have plenty of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, but it has them in the perfect ratio. When you combine these with GLA, they become an outstanding natural anti-inflammatory.
Reducing inflammation can help with:
- Arthritis (including rheumatoid)
- Heart Disease
- Metabolic Syndrome
- Fatty Liver Disease (not related to excess alcohol consumption)
- Type 2 Diabetes
Hemp Seed Smoothies – Good to the Last Droop
These are just a few of the many benefits of putting hemp seeds in smoothies. Research is finding they may help with atopic dermatitis and acne. The longer research continues, the more outstanding benefits are likely to be found.
Although hemp seeds do have a slightly nutty taste (think pine nuts), by the time you add them to your hemp smoothie, you probably won’t notice it. Put two or three tablespoons of hemp seeds in smoothies at least once a day to ensure you get the most out of them.
