Why is hemp good for you?

It seems like everyone’s talking about the benefits of hemp. And when you look a little closer at its nutrient profile, it’s easy to see why. 

The health benefits of hemp are nothing short of remarkable. From improving heart health to optimising brain function to supporting immunity – hemp is living proof the best things come in tiny packages. 

So why is hemp so good for you? 

What are the benefits? 

And how can you get more in your diet? 
 

Why is hemp so good? 

1. The ideal ratio of Omega 3 6 and 9

Omega 3 6 and 9 are unsaturated fats (the good kind) that are essential to a balanced diet, helping to boost immunity, heart health, digestion and mood. But what’s often misunderstood is that they need to be in the ideal ratio for your body to reap the benefits (the wrong balance can actually do more harm than good).

The ideal ratio of Omega 6 to Omega 3 sits between 2:1 and 4:1. The humble hemp plant sits within this ratio, making it the best source of Omega on earth.  

2. Impressive source of dietary fibre

The main role of fibre is to keep the digestive system healthy, which has flow on effects for so many facets of health. A diet with the ideal amount of fibre can lower cholesterol, control blood sugar and maintain healthy bowel movements. Hemp seeds are rich in both soluble and insoluble fibre, with a 100g serving containing a whopping 9.7g of fibre. 

3.  Contains all 20 amino acids 

Amino acids are organic compounds that play a vital role in human health. They’re also known as the “building blocks of protein” (more on protein in the next point). 

All up, there are 20 different amino acids, all of which are found in hemp (to put this in comparison, most meat products only have the 9 essential amino acids). Amino acids can provide energy, regulate digestion, support immunity and so much more. 

4.  Source of plant-based protein

Proteins are the building blocks of life and an essential part of a healthy human diet. Hemp seeds are naturally high in protein, claiming up to 25% its total calorie content! A diet high in protein can increase your energy, build lean muscle, boost immunity, reduce inflammation and strengthen hair, skin and nails. 

5.  Packed with vitamins and minerals 

Those teeny, tiny hemp seeds are bursting with nutrients. They contain a range of necessary vitamins and minerals including magnesium, iron, zinc, calcium, potassium, vitamin E and vitamins B1 and B3. These contribute to a whole range of health benefits, from immune function to heart health to skin health. 

Hemp for good health

As you can see, the nutritional benefits of hemp are truly remarkable. Plus, there are so many ways you can consume hemp including… 

• Hemp seeds
• Hemp seed oil
• Hemp protein
• Hemp milk
• Hemp flour

One plant really can do it all. 

Written by Samantha, an ethical copywriter from the Mornington Peninsula. She’s a former environmental scientist, outdoor enthusiast and the founder of Copy Circle.