Hemp, The Seed With A Heart
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Posted On :
Apr-28-2011
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Article Word Count :
528
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The article discuses about the health benefits of the hemp heart, along with information about its uses.
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A Historic Seed
Throughout Asia and the Middle East, hemp has been a staple food and textile for centuries, making its way across Europe and to the Americas. It is one of nature's most versatile and hardy plants with a number of uses including fiber, plastics and food.
In China, hemp hearts are one of the most important elements in Traditional Chinese Medicine, revered for a toning effect on specific organs and recommended generally for the entire body.
Hemp was a staple crop in the U.S. before becoming illegal in 1937. It was used for a number of textiles and fabrics—the first U.S. flag was even made out of hemp!
Hemp Hearts Health Benefits
Similar in size to a sesame seed, hemp hearts are hemp seeds with the outer shell removed. What's left is creamy, nutty and soft protein and good fat source that is also delicious and loaded with different uses and health benefits. Hemp hearts are an excellent vegetarian protein.
Hemp hearts' ratio of omega 3 to 6 fats is probably the most important health benefit, providing the perfect balance for human dietary needs, making them an ideal supplement, especially to an already healthy diet. Omega fats, or "essential" fats are crucial to human health, and can only be obtained through diet. Many Americans eat too many Omega-6 fatty acids found in saturated and trans fats such as in junk and fast food. Hemp hearts provide a healthy source of Omega-6s and Omega-3 fatty acids as well. Without healthy fats, the body is at an increased risk of developing deficiencies and diseases including heart disease, slow wound healing and a greater risk of infection from the common cold and flu.
Hemp hearts contain all 20 amino acids (including the 9 essential) and carry a high protein percentage. They are the richest known source of polyunsaturated fats, containing a perfect 3:1 ration of Omega-6 linolenic Acid and Omega-3 linolenic acid. And, hemp hearts are beneficial to cardiovascular health and immune function, containing phytonutrients, which may boost immunity, purify the skin, and strengthen connective tissue.
The protein found in hemp hearts is very digestible, with no known allergies, which makes it an excellent choice for athletes or individuals looking to increase their protein sources. For vegetarians, this can be an especially good option for anyone excluding soy or wheat proteins from their diet.
Along with the great taste and health benefits, eating hemp hearts daily may help with the reduction of cholesterol and blood pressure, reduce inflammation, increase healing time, improve circulation, and boost overall immune function and performance.
Hemp Heart Uses
Because of hemp hearts' creamy and nutty texture, they can be used in both sweet and savory dishes.
Hemp hearts are delicious on hot and cold cereals. Add to baking recipes such as cookies, breads, and muffins. Sprinkle on yogurt and ice cream, soups and salads, and definitely blend them right into your smoothie! Top off pizza, mix into hummus or stir-fries. You can use them as you would sesame seeds on top of or mixed into countless recipes.
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Article Source :
http://www.articleseen.com/Article_Hemp, The Seed With A Heart_60730.aspx
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Author Resource :
Organic hemp hearts are a tasty and versatile food with a light and nutty flavor. The health benefits of hemp hearts are a superfood full of Omega fatty acids and protein.
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Keywords :
organic hemp hearts, health benefits of hemp hearts, hemp hearts have health benefits,
Category :
Health and Fitness
:
Nutrition
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