Hemp
Cannibis sativa achieved notoriety in the Twentieth Century as the source of the world’s preeminent recreational drug. For centuries hemp’s less intoxicating strains have provided us with useful products such as cloth and rope, thanks to their fibrous stems. Now hemp’s seeds (again in non-psychoactive form) are creating a dietary sensation as a source of essential phytonutrients and easily-absorbed protein.
In fact, Hemp is one of the few foods that provide all the amino acids we require in our diets, including the essential ones – those the body cannot make for itself. Hemp also packs a significant antioxidant punch, and has an appreciable mineral and vitamin content. It also gives us a significant spectrum of amino acids.
Hemp provides Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, in what has become recognised as the ideal ratio for optimum dietary benefit. Modern foods containing these fatty acids increasingly present them in a ratio skewed in favour of Omega-6. This is currently a cause of concern to nutritionists.
Health benefits of Hemp
Hemp’s fortunate combination or Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids has several key benefits for humans.
• Omega-3 and Omega-6 in a favourable ratio promote neurological cellular health and chemical communication. Both concentration and emotional stability can be improved. For this reason Hemp has been associated with reduction of symptoms in those suffering from depression.
• These fatty acids are vital to maintenance of good blood health. They aid the regulation of blood pressure, can lead to reduced heart rates and so help reduce the incidence of arteriosclerosis (hardening of the arteries) and heart attack. Improved immune responses have also been reported by consumers.
• Water is readily taken up by the fibres of these fatty acids. This helps regulate the carbohydrate release from our food, which leads to improved blood sugar level regulation. Hypoglycemics and diabetics, for whom blood sugar level variation causes issues, can benefit from this.
• In fact, Hemp provides all the fatty acids, which are essentially fuel for the systems and organs of our bodies. These include the essential fatty acids – such as linoleic and alpha-linoleic acid – those that the body cannot manufacture itself within the digestive process.
Amino acids are required by the body in order to convert the nutrients we consume into energy. Hemp provides a good range of these, including several of the essential ones. The proteins provided by Hemp are the globular plant proteins edestin and albumin. These are easily digestible by humans and promote healthy immune system function. It is worth noting that one thing Hemp lacks is oligosaccharides – trypsin inhibitors – which can inhibit our absorption of proteins. The protein-availability of Hemp is one reason why it is increasingly popular with sportspeople and those enjoying active lifestyles. About 50% of Hemp protein’s mass is actually protein.
Hemp is a fine source of chlorophyll. This is the same chemical that makes grass green. As the essential ingredient in photosynthesis it is the basis of all plant life. Chlorophyll also has a very similar structure to blood haemoglobin, and supports good blood formation, health and function. Hemp provides a good range of vitamins and minerals, including iron, calcium, phosphorous, magnesium, zinc and copper. It is also recognised as a source of dietary fibre. Hemp is also suitable for people with intolerances for lactose and gluten, as well as being a suitable foodstuff for diabetics.
