Why Hemp Is the Latest & Greatest Superfood

Move over kale, there’s a new superfood in town, and it tastes delicious! Hemp, one of the oldest cultivated plants in the world, is also one of the most versatile.

You’re probably well aware that eating more nutrient-dense fruit and vegetables is good for you, but superfoods like hemp take things to another level with their “megadose” of nutrients and ability to optimize how your body functions. 

Hemp boasts a nearly perfect balance of omega-3 to omega-6, iron, vitamin E, and all of the essential amino acids.  It’s no wonder hemp is said to be one of the most nutritionally complete food sources in the world. 

Here’s the breakdown:

1. Packs a Protein Punch

Hemp foods are protein paradise! Compared to many other plant-based foods, hemp is loaded with protein goodness. When comparing overall composition, lentils, for example, contain 9-15% protein, tofu-16%, peanut butter-25%, and hemp a whopping 31%! Plus, because hemp is a complete protein, it contains all 21 amino acids, including the nine essential ones we can only get from our diets.

2. Full of Essential & Natural Fatty Acids

The body needs a good balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids for energy production, nervous system function, skin elasticity, brain development, immune system support, and heart health. They're “essential” because our bodies don't produce them. Fortunately, hemp seeds are a rich source. 

Hemp also contains fats that are even harder to spy-natural fatty acids which help the body convert omega fatty acids more efficiently, improve skin condition, lower high blood pressure, and decrease inflammation. 

3. Hello, Fiber & Minerals!

Hemp is jam-packed with soluble and insoluble fiber. In a nutshell, insoluble fiber is the roughage that adds bulk to our digestive waste and helps keep us regular, whilst soluble fiber dissolves in the gut into a gel-like substance that helps the bulk move through. Both are equally important in helping your body eliminate toxins and keeps your digestive tract healthy. Bonus marks for being low carb, sugar and gluten-free too (show off!). 

4. No Known Allergies

Hemp supports immunity by being high in vitamin E and zinc, and a study from the University of South Carolina found hemp can suppress inflammation. What’s more, it can be consumed by most of us, even those with other intolerances, as there are no known allergies to the seed.

Supercharge Your Diet with Hemp

Around here at Sagely Naturals, we’re huge fans of hemp and it’s what we’re adding to our food in the morning too.

Unlike some superfoods, hemp actually has quite a delicious nutty flavor making it great to sprinkle over muesli and salads, add to smoothies or mix through porridge bringing a new dimension of creaminess.

 As versatile as it is nutritious, hemp has a lot going for it. No matter how you choose to consume it, hemp is a powerhouse food worthy of a place in your cupboard and health and wellness routine.