Hemp Seeds - A Protein Resource

Hemp seeds are considered a complete protein because each seed contains all nine of the amino acids your body cannot make but needs to build its proteins. (Remember that your body makes its own human proteins from 20 different amino acids.) For Plant Powered People, hemp seeds are an excellent protein resource. One third of the weight of these seeds is protein! So, for example, you get about 10 grams of protein from three tablespoons of hemp seeds. That is huuuuge.

Hemp seeds are also high in those important omega 3 fatty acids. You will also get about 20% of your daily value of iron in three tablespoons of hemp seeds. Plus potassium, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, folate, phosphorus, magnesium, zinc, copper, and manganese. They are almost like tiny vitamin pills!

When shopping for hemp seeds, I choose raw shelled seeds, and organic when possible. You can enjoy hemp seeds sprinkled on any salad, raw or cooked vegetables (or fruits!), in stir fries and soups. They have a mild nutty flavor that adds richness and texture to any dish. You can also toss them in smoothies. For a smoothie, I actually prefer hemp seed powder because the powder makes a smoothie more smooth.

Adding hemp seeds or more hemp seeds into your diet is easy and really amps up your protein intake. I hope you will look for some next time you go for groceries.

Here is my review of Nutiva Hemp Seeds, a brand I like and use for your reference.