hemp nutritional facts

Benefits of consuming Hemp Seed Nuts & Oil

• Excellent source of essential fatty acids including Omega 3, 6 & GLA
• Lower blood LDL cholesterol levels
• Lower blood pressure
• Improve cardiovascular circulation & function
• Improve organ function
• Improve immunity levels
• Increased energy levels & metabolic rate
• Reduce symptoms of PMS & menstrual cramps
• Reduce inflammation and the symptoms of arthritis
• Improve recovery of muscles after exercise
• Reduce & treat dry skin & hair conditions
• Reduction of many degenerative diseases through preventative measures

The daily recommended allowance of hemp seed oil is 1-2 tablespoons, or 2-3 tablespoons of de-hulled hemp seeds, providing 8-16 grams of Omega 6 (LA) and 3 -6 grams of Omega 3 (LNA). Hemp seed oil and nuts also provide an adequate supply of antioxidants (Vitamin E), carotene (precursor to Vitamin A), phytosterols, phospholipids, and a number of minerals such as calcium, magnesium, sulfur, potassium, phosphorus, and modest amounts of iron and zinc, while being a good source of chlorophyll. Studies have shown that GLA improves memory, and overall mental health, as well as reducing symptoms of skin ailments like eczema and even fibrocystic disease.

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Exceptional Nutrition

Whole hemp seeds contain approximately 25% protein, 31% fat (in the form of oil), and 34% carbohydrates, plus vitamins and minerals. Hemp seeds are second only to soybean in protein content. However soy protein contains high levels of enzyme inhibitors, blocking the uptake of trypsin and other enzymes the body uses for protein digestion. Hemp protein is free of the tryspin inhibitors that block protein absorption and free of oligosaccharides found in soy, which cause stomach upset and gas.

Hemp protein contains all 20 known amino acids including the 9 essential amino acids (EAAs) our bodies cannot produce. Approximately 65% of the protein in hemp seeds is made up of the globulin protein Edestin. Found only in hemp seed, Edestin aids digestion, is relatively phosphorus-free and considered the backbone of the cell’s DNA. The other one third of hemp seed protein is Albumin, another high quality globulin protein similar to that found in egg whites.

Hemp Seed Oil

The oil contained in hemp seed is 75-80% polyunsaturated fatty acids (good fats) and only 9-11% of the lesser desired saturated fatty acids. The essential fatty acids (EFAs) contained in hemp seed oil are required in our diet more than any other vitamin, yet our bodies do not naturally produce them. They must be obtained from external sources in the food we eat. EFAs are involved with producing life’s energy throughout the human body, without them life is not possible. In general, a high dietary deficiency in EFAs is due to a higher intake of animal fats versus plant fats, caused by our high consumption of processed foods and meats versus natural organic foods.

Dubbed Nature’s most perfectly balanced oil, due to the fact that it contains the perfectly balanced 3:1 ratio of Omega 6 (linoleic/ LA) to Omega 3 (alpha-linolenic/LNA) essential fatty acids, determined to be the optimum requirement for long-term healthy human nutrition. In addition, it also contains smaller amounts of 3 other polyunsaturated fatty acids in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), oleic acid and stearidonic acid. This EFA combination is unique among edible oil seeds.

Omega 3, 6, 9 deficiences

It is well documented that many of our common ailments are due to deficiencies or imbalances of specific fatty acids in the body. Symptoms are often related to a lack of Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, and their derivatives the postaglandins. Clinical studies show that taking supplements with EFAs or their metabolites (such as GLA) will often prevent or even cure these illnesses.

Hemp seed oil contains both EFAs in a desirable balance while also providing two of the EFA metabolites. These nutrients are termed essential because our bodies require them to function and cannot manufacture them. We must get EAAs and EFAs from the foods we eat or supplements.

Unlike flax oil and others, hemp seed oil can be used continuously without developing a deficiency or other imbalance of EFAs. The majority of Irish people are deficient in Omega 3. A recent study revealed that 98% of children in Ireland are deficient in this essential food.
~ Public Sector Times, Jan ‘07

Omega 3 must be consumed daily for the brain to function at optimum performance, and for a strong immune and cardiovascular system. Give it a try! It’s easy to include in your daily diet, add 1-2 tablespoons Omega Foods Hemp Oil, or 2-3 tablespoons of De-hulled Seeds to breakfast, lunch and dinner. Hot, cold or warm foods, soups, smoothies, pasta, salads and dressings, cereals and porridge, dips, yogurt, etc. can all be enhanced nutritionally and in taste, with this wonderful gift from mother nature.

OMEGA FOODS:Dehulled Hemp Seeds

The hemp seeds are shelled mechanically taking care to preserve the highly valuable hemp seed oil with its vital unsaturated fatty acids, and the proteins with all their essential amino acids. Use to garnish practically every dish, a delicious snack eaten raw. Mild roasting produces a tasty nut-like flavour that adds a special touch to many dishes. Once opened, refrigerate and use within 2-3 months.

OMEGA FOODS: Cold-Pressed Hemp Oil

Our cold-pressed hemp oil is produced from selected food hemp varieties. It has a nutty flavour and a pleasant mild taste. It is famous for its high content in unsaturated fatty acids such as oleic, linoleic, and linolenic acid, as well as gammalinolenic acid, present in a composition that is unique to hemp oil among all oil plants, while being best for human nutrition. It is free from cholesterol and supports both cell metabolism and the immune system.

Due to its composition hemp oil is unsuitable for frying. For best nutritional benefit sprinkle on steamed vegetables or use in a salad dressing with balsamic vinegar. Once opened store in the fridge.

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