SPOTLIGHT ON: Super food – Hemp Hearts
I’m sure you’ve heard about hemp hearts (seeds) and/or have seen them kickin around in health food stores as well as some big-chain grocery stores. These little seeds are so incredible and pack quite a nutritional punch! They have a mild and nutty flavor to most people. Read on to learn more about them.
>High in fat (the good kind).
They contain over 30% good quality fats and are especially rich in the essential fatty acids: linoleic acid (omega-6) & alpha-linolenic acid (omega-3). They also contain gamma-linolenic acid.
>High in good quality protein.
Hemp hearts are an amazing plant-based protein and are considered a complete protein. They provide all essential amino acids. In 3 tbsp of hemp hearts, there is about 10 grams of protein. Not too bad for something you can just sprinkle onto most, if not all, of your food.
May help with symptoms of PMS and menopause.
Depending on the person and how they react to things, hemp hearts may help decrease symptoms of PMS and menopause due to its high amounts of GLA.
Side note: Personally, after eating a decent amount of these for about 1.5-2 weeks, the first thing I notice is how amazing my nails look. Yes, you read that right.. my nails. They become extremely tough and the whites of my nails are unreal. That’s usually my way of seeing if I have had enough hemp hearts. Again, this can depend on the person!
They are as convenient as can be.
You can literally add these to just about anything. Smoothies, soups, juices, elixirs, vegan cream cheese mixtures, dips, stew, chili, chia pudding, oatmeal, eggs and on top of dishes such as flat breads & pizzas. They don’t have an overwhelming flavor and blend in with pretty much everything. Try them out for yourself!
You can find these at various stores, mostly health food stores. Prices will vary. I have used the Manitoba Harvest kind for about 6 years now and love it. I find they have the best flavor. I find the best prices for this specific brand at Costco and Community Natural Foods (Calgary). I’m sure other places sell them for a good price too… I just haven’t seen it yet! You can usually get coupons online too and save a few dollars. If you can find coupons, do it! Save yourself some money 🙂
