Now trending… hemp foods

Using the seed derived from the same plant as marijuana in foods was made legal just over a year ago, and its health star is on the rise.

Our nutritionist explains why this seed is causing such interest now it’s legal

Hemp is non-psychoactive, meaning it won’t get you high like marijuana – and it’s got a lot of benefits to brag about. So it’s no surprise that since hemp seeds and oil became legal 2017, it’s begun taking up more and more of the health food aisle real estate.

WHAT’S ALL THE BUZZ ABOUT?

Hemp seeds are a nutrition powerhouse, high in muscle-building protein, healthy fats and a range of micronutrients. What’s more, they’re one of the few foods (along with linseeds, walnuts and eggs) that contain essential plantbased omega-3s, which are the healthy fats that support heart and brain function. Another perk is that hemp doesn’t require soaking or cooking, so it’s a convenient pantry staple, too.

HEMP HOW TO On their own…

You can buy hemp seeds and flakes in the supermarket health food aisle. Sprinkle them over cereal or salads, add them smoothies or mix them into yoghurt. For baking… Whip up a healthy loaf or batch of muffins using hemp flour. Substitute one cup regular flour for a third of a cup hemp flour.

For snacking…

Bliss balls, corn chips and even chocolate bars are now available with added hemp, but it pays to check the ingredients list to find what percentage of hemp you’re actually getting. For drizzling…

Not just for soothing dry skin, hemp oil can now be added to your cooking, too. It’s great in salad dressings or drizzled over roasted vegies. For sipping…

There are some waters on the market with added hemp oil – but often in miniscule amounts. You can also get hemp milk, though these lack the calcium of regular dairy.