Also known as Cannabis sativa.

Hemp is a’super food’ belonging to the mulberry family which has been cultivated for over 10,000 years. It was the first crop to be cultivated by mankind as a source of edible seeds and oil, a lubricant and as fuel.

Hemp seeds have the most concentrated balance of nutrients available including complete protein, with essential fats and virtually no sugar, starch or saturated fat.

It has been reported that the human body ideally needs a balance of 2 to 4:1 of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids. Hemp seeds are the only natural food that provides this perfect balance. Flaxseeds, almonds, soybean, walnuts and olive oil do not contain this correct balance and can lead to an unhealthy imbalance if consumed daily. The western diet typically has ratios as high as 16:1 or even 20:1, due to the prevalence of processed foods and vegetable oils. Omega-6 fatty acids are inflammatory whereas omega-3 fatty acids are anti-inflammatory.

The oils in hemp contain more beneficial omega-3 components than found in any fish or fish oil supplements.

Consuming raw hemp seeds aids in weight loss, increased and sustained energy, natural blood sugar control, reduction of inflammation and pain, lowered LDL cholesterol and blood pressure, improved cardiovascular and organ function and a reduction of degenerative diseases.

Consuming them regularly can offer protection against breast, colon and prostate cancer, heart disease and strokes. It can also provide a, reduction of PMS symptoms and cramps and improved recovery of muscles after intense exercise which is helpful to those participating in sports and other intense physical activities.

When eating hemp seeds regularly, there will be a noticeable improvement of the condition of the hair and skin due to the rich vitamin E content. There will also be a marked improvement of the immune system, metabolic rate and circulation.

Hemp seeds are a good source of fibre. They contain both soluble and insoluble fibre, which are beneficial for digestive health and a balanced intestinal flora environment.

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Hemp seeds components protect the brain cells which can alleviate psychological problems of anxiety and depression and improve the memory and mood. They also can protect against, and help to improve, symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and Parkinson’s disease.

The normal daily consumption for general health should be about 42 grams (4 heaped tablespoons) for an average sized adult.

For larger than average people or to treat any of the above conditions it is advised that 55 grams (5/6 heaped tablespoons) is consumed daily.

Conditions mentioned above can be expected to improve within three months of daily consumption.

NOTE: Make sure that the hemp seeds are organic and have not been heat sterilised in order to gain the benefit of high nutrition from them.

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What minerals are in hemp seeds?

Hemp protein is free from tryspin inhibitors which block protein absorption and is free from oligosaccharides found in soy which cause stomach upset and gas.

These seeds can be consumed by those with an intolerance to nuts, lactose, gluten or sugar and there are no known allergies to hemp.

They are especially good for pregnant and nursing mothers, babies, body builders, the elderly or convalescent patients but are an amazing source of balanced nutrition and highly digestible protein for everyone.

Hemps seeds can be added to any meals, salads, sandwiches and snacks and are ideal for sprouting on a windowsill in a jam-jar using just a daily rinse of water.

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NOTE: Hulled hemp seeds contain far less nutrients and if heated treated will have lost most of the vitamin content. Hemp oil should not be used for frying only as a dressing ingredient.

Hemp is often included in bird seed due to its high nutritional content.

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