The popularity of hemp seeds continues to grow tremendously due to their high nutritional value. Although they come from the hemp plant in the same species as marijuana plants, they don’t make you high. Therefore, you should be okay with failing a drug test if you consume them. You might wonder what it tastes like if you have never used hemp seeds.
Hemp plants contain low Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), which causes psychoactive effects. The Controlled Substances Act (CSA) ruled in 2018 that the hemp plant does not fit a full definition of marijuana. Besides, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees regulating hemp products. Therefore, it is safe and legal to consume hemp seeds.
How Do Hemp Seeds Taste?
- Nutty notes
If you are a fan of nuts, then consider including hemp seeds on your list. The seeds have a nutty flavor due to pyrroline and pyrazines, also found in dark chocolate and coffee. Hemp seeds also have an undertone of pine nuts. It is the effect of a blend of nutty constituents with wood, piquant and green notes.
- A Bean-like Aroma
The blend of green and woody compounds resembling bell pepper adds flavor to the hemp seeds. Besides, an undertone of maple and caramel odor links to the exceptional hemp seeds taste.
- Comforting Aftertaste
Hemp seeds give you a well-rounded mouthfeel. Different acids and aldehydes give the hemp seeds an additional citrusy hint similar to the taste of lemon.
Different Ways to Consume the Seeds
- Hemp seed oil
Hemp seed oil is a product of crushed hemp seeds. Cold-pressed and unrefined oil is the best choice for optimal nutritional value. The ideal hemp seed oil has a green tinge and a nutty taste. It’s not recommendable to fry or bake with hemp seed oil as it is unstable at high temperatures. It is suitable for sprinkling over veggies and salad dressings.
2. Hemp protein powder
If you are keen on the hemp seeds’ high fiber and protein content, consider adding hemp protein powder to smoothies and other foods.
3. Whole and Hulled Hemp Seeds
Consuming the hemp seeds with the shells may feel crunchy. Therefore, you may want to purchase them when hulled. The hemp hearts are light with the trademark nutty flavor and quickly mixed into smoothies. They are also ideal for sprinkling on cereals.
Health Benefits of Hemp Seeds
- High nutrition value
The seeds contain over 30 percent fat. They are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which have numerous health benefits. Besides, they contain high amounts of calcium, vitamin E, sulfur, potassium, phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, iron, and sodium.
- Reduces the risk of heart disease
The seeds have high amounts of arginine, an amino acid that releases nitric oxide in the body. The gas molecule causes relaxation and dilation of the blood vessels. Hemp seeds reduce the vulnerability to heart disease. It lowers blood pressure and susceptibility to heart disease.
- They are suitable for the skin.
The balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 is beneficial to the skin by alleviating disorders.
- It aids in digestion
Thin e high amounts of soluble and insoluble fibers in whole hemp seeds are crucial for digestion. Hulled seeds also contain much fiber, although less than their counterparts.
Hemp seeds have been consumed food for years. However, their demand is increasing as people realize their superb nutritional value. Hemp seeds are incredibly healthy and also receive a boost due to their nutty taste. They have low THC content and thus do not give you a high. Therefore, nothing should hinder you from reaping the health benefits of hemp seeds.
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