What are the nutritional benefits of hemp?

Not only is hemp great for the environment, but it’s rich in nutritional value too. Experts at Hemp Point explore the benefits of adding it to your diet. 

It is believed that hemp has been used as a food source for thousands of years, first cultivated in Asia before spreading to Europe and the rest of the world. 

Its nutritional value was initially discovered in ancient China where it was also used for clothing, rope, paper and other essential materials. 

Its versatility led to it becoming the world’s most widely-used agricultural crop. A global move towards prohibition in the 20th century, however, led to a rapid decline in its use. But now, as awareness of its health benefits grows, hemp’s potential as a food source is being reignited. 

What are the health benefits? 

Hemp is rich in healthy fats, fibre and protein. It also contains useful vitamins such as niacin and vitamin E. Niacin has been found to help improve the function of our skin, nervous system and digestive system and may also be beneficial for those with diabetes. 

These compounds are particularly concentrated in the seeds of the plant which are considered a ‘complete protein source’ meaning it contains all of the amino acids our body needs to form protein. 

High in unsaturated fats, hemp oil is a nutritious alternative to other oils and fats. It is rich in omega-3, 6 and 9 as well as vitamins and minerals, including magnesium, iron, zinc and calcium. 

Hemp oil is also known to be a powerful antioxidant which means it may help maintain healthy hair, nails and skin. 

How to bring hemp into your diet

If you’re looking to bring hemp into your diet, Tomas recommends starting with hemp seed oil due to its versatility. But you don’t need to stop there. From hemp milk to protein powder, there are numerous sources you can get your hemp from.

Hemp flour can be made into bread and pasta offering a high-protein, gluten-free alternative to wheat-derived carbohydrates. 

Hemp milk is also rising in popularity as a dairy-free alternative and a good source of vitamin A, calcium, vitamin D and other vitamins. 

If you’re an athlete, consider throwing hemp protein into your next shake or smoothie. It contains less protein than soy or pea proteins but if you’re looking for a less refined protein source, hemp is a great option. 

Meal ideas to try out

Try using hemp seed oil on salads and other cold dishes or add hemp seeds to a dish for an added crunch and protein boost. You can also use seeds to make a hemp butter for dressings and sauces. 

Shelled hemp seeds can make a great alternative to pine nuts in a homemade pesto or try replacing bulgur wheat with hemp hearts (unshelled seeds) for a tabbouleh with a nuttier taste. 

If you have a sweet tooth, try using hemp protein powder to make protein bars or use hemp butter for brownies, cookies or cake. 

What does Hemp Point offer?

Aside from being a respected CBD company, Hemp Point is also a leading manufacturer of hemp seed oil. 

The company uses its own hemp seed oil as a carrier oil for many of its CBD supplements but Tomas says the product is becoming increasingly popular in the kitchen.

The nutty, mild flavour of the hemp seed oil makes it a perfect base for dressings and an alternative to olive oil. 

Thanks to its bio-certified and cold-pressed production method, Hemp Point’s oil has been awarded a Gold award from the European quality assurance and testing provider DLG. 

Find out more about Hemp Point’s range of CBD products and hemp oil.