One of the most common questions I get asked when people discover I eat raw food (note: this is something they discover as opposed to me walking around advertising the fact and imposing my choices on everyone I meet!) is "Where do you get your protein?" If I had a pound for everytime I was asked that....well who know's where I'd be!
The arguments for and against vegetable vs animal protein are way too complex to go into here, and there has been so much written about this topic; but I wanted to share with you, one of my favourite protein boosts (apart from dark leafy greens, of which I eat large amounts on a daily basis)...sometimes the simple things are the best, and nutritionally the humble hemp seed offers a whole host of benefits, and plays a part in my diet most days.
Aside from the fact that hemp can be used as a material for clothes, as a construction material for eco homes, it is also one of the most nutritious, complete foods, and is one of the most environmentally kind crops! Not bad for a little eco seed!
Out of over three million edible plants on our planet, no other single plant source can compare nutritionally with the hemp seed. The complete protein and the essential oils that are contained in hemp seeds are in ideal ratios for humans. Unlike soya beans, which have to be sprouted or cooked, 65% of the protein content is in the form of globulin edestin, so that it can actually be used by the body in it's raw state, making it perfect for those following a raw food diet.
One of the most exciting things about hemp is it's protein content. The amino acid content of hemp (that's the building blocks of protein) is almost complete, rivalling the protein in meat, eggs and soy. Protein is invaluable for growth, repair and maintenance of the body, as well as being necessary for beautiful skin, glossy hair and strong nails, something we all aspire to having!
I don't profess to know or even fully understand the science behind the protein content of hemp; I'm no scientist by any stretch of the imagination, but I read that hemp contains arginine and histidine which are important for immunity and healing wounds, cell growth, and methionine and cysteine which are detoxifying. Hemp oil has the perfect balance of the easily absorbable fatty acids, omega 3, 6 and 9, which help to increase the metabolic rate, which helps maintain a healthy weight, and are vital for maintaining a strong and healthy body and mind. Sounds good to me!
So, we know that hemp is good for us...but how to include it in our diet?
Hemp seeds have a lovely nutty flavour and are extremely versatile. Whole hemp seeds need to be soaked and sprouted or ground before they can be eaten, unless you don't mind the crunch that is! Ready shelled hemp seeds are an easier option and are delicious sprinkled on salads, or soups. I've even been known to eat them with a spoon straight from the packet as a snack!
Hemp seeds can be blended with water to make hemp milk (adding date for sweetness if you have a sweet tooth).This is a wonderful alternative to soy or cow's milk. Hemp alergies are virtually unknown, and this nutritious milk is quick and easy to make, is easily digestable and rivals most shop-bought milks.
This recipe is quick and easy and packs a prefect protein punch!
Blend: 1 banana, 1 cup raspberries (you can use frozen ones on a hot day!), 1 date, 2T hemp seeds, 2 large handfuls spinach, 1T maca, 1t vanilla powder, coconut water - vary amount depending on how thick you like your smoothies.
Products extracted form hemp such as hemp oil or hemp protein powder are beneficial for health. These products are found to be of great help in the detoxification process and can be purchased online at good deals.
Posted by: Lewis | 05/16/2011 at 02:34 PM