The popularity of the hemp seeds continues to grow tremendously due to their high nutritional value. Although they come from the hemp plant, which is in the same species as marijuana plants, they don’t make you high. Therefore, you should not worry about failing a drug test if you consume them. If you have never used hemp seeds, you might wonder how it tastes like.
Hemp plants contain low levels of Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the compound that causes psychoactive effects. The Controlled Substances Act (CSA), made a ruling in 2018, that hemp plant does not fit a full definition of marijuana. Besides, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) oversees the regulation of 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 nutty flavor due to pyrroline and pyrazines, which are also found in dark chocolate and coffee. Hemp seeds also have an undertone of the 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 that resembles a bell pepper adds a beany 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 mouth-feel. Different acids and aldehydes give the hemp seeds an additional citrusy hint similar to the taste in 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 together with the nutty taste. It’s not recommendable to fry or bake with the 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 high fiber and protein content of the hemp seeds, consider adding the hemp protein powder on smoothie 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 mix 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 through the alleviation of disorders.
- It aids digestion
The high amounts of soluble and insoluble fibers in whole hemp seeds are crucial for digestion. Hulled seeds also contain a significant amount of fiber, although it is 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 from the hemp seeds.
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