Curious about integrating hemp seed into your diet yet feeling unsure due to its cannabis plant origins?
If questions like "Is hemp seed safe to eat?" are swirling in your thoughts, you're not alone. Despite its legalisation for human consumption in Australia since 2017, misconceptions about hemp seed linger, including worries about drug testing, psychoactive effects, and its safety for children, pregnant women, and nursing mothers.
In this enlightening blog, we're diving deep to dispel these myths, offering clarity and peace of mind. We'll explore the truth behind hemp seed's safety, nutritional benefits, and why it deserves a prime spot in your pantry. Join us as we unveil the facts, ensuring you're informed and ready to harness the health advantages of this remarkable superfood.
Will eating hemp seed will cause a positive drug test reading?
We know that other foods like poppy seeds, which contain trace amounts of opiates, can make you fail a drug test. Certain places actually ask that you don’t eat poppy seed bagels or muffins before testing. But hemp seeds won’t cause the same confusion. A study found that eating hemp seeds had little effect on a person’s THC levels ― and never enough to exceed the levels looked for in federal drug testing programs. So rest assured, the fact is hemp seed is safe to eat and you can eat it daily and have no risk of failing a drug test. It is safe for FIFO workers to consume with their compulsory drug testing at work and never get a positive reading.
Will eating hemp seeds will get you high?
Hemp seeds have little effect on a person’s THC levels, so there is no chance you will get high from eating hemp seed products. Whilst hemp and marijuana look the same, hemp is the low THC version, making it safe to consume. What’s more, most of the plant’s THC is found in the leaves and flowers, not the seeds. So no, eating hemp seed will not get you high….just healthy!
Can you eat hemp seed while pregnant or breastfeeding?
We've confirmed that hemp seed is devoid of THC, establishing its safety for consumption at all life stages, including for babies, toddlers, children, the elderly, and during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Beyond its safety, hemp seed is an exceptional source of omega fatty acids crucial for brain development, and protein essential for physical growth.
It's also rich in zinc to bolster the immune system, along with other vital nutrients like iron, magnesium, vitamin E, potassium, calcium, and phosphorus.
Aim to integrated hemp seed into your family's diet by including it in at least one meal or snack daily. Hemp seeds (aka hemp hearts), with their small size, high digestibility, and mild taste, are effortlessly incorporated into a variety of snacks and dishes. Adding just 1 teaspoon of hemp hearts to your child's daily diet can make a significant positive impact on immunity, brain health and behaviour. In fact, omega 3 (found in hemp seed) has been scientifically shown to improve symptoms in ADHD, autism and auto-immune diseases.
Can hemp seeds cause any side effects?
Hemp seeds are generally considered safe for most people to consume, but like any food, there may be some side effects to watch out for. Some individuals may experience mild digestive issues, such as bloating, nausea, or diarrhea, particularly when they consume large amounts of hemp seeds at once. These reactions are usually linked to the high fibre content found in the seeds, which can be a bit much for sensitive stomachs to handle in excess. Gradually introducing hemp seeds into your diet can help minimise these effects.
Another potential concern is the interaction between hemp seeds and certain medications. Hemp seeds contain healthy fats, including omega-3 fatty acids, which can thin the blood and may interfere with blood-thinning medications like warfarin. If you're taking any such medications, it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating hemp seeds into your diet regularly. While side effects from hemp seeds are uncommon, being mindful of these considerations can help ensure you enjoy their health benefits without issues.
Is hemp seed safe for daily consumption?
Hemp seeds are not only safe to eat daily, but they are also highly nutritious and beneficial for your overall health. Rich in protein, fiber, and essential fatty acids like omega-3 and omega-6, hemp seeds can support heart health, improve digestion, and provide long-lasting energy. Their nutrient-dense profile makes them an excellent addition to a balanced diet, especially for those looking for plant-based protein sources or foods that support joint and brain health. Studies show that incorporating hemp seeds into your daily routine can help meet your nutritional needs without adverse effects.
That said, like with any food, moderation is key. While it’s generally safe to eat hemp seeds every day, consuming them in excessive quantities might lead to minor digestive discomfort due to their high fiber content. To avoid this, it's best to introduce hemp seeds gradually and stick to recommended serving sizes. Typically, a serving of 1 to 2 tablespoons a day is enough to provide the health benefits without overwhelming the digestive system. For most people, regularly enjoying hemp seeds as part of a balanced diet is a safe and healthy choice.
How do hemp seeds compare to other superfoods?
Hemp seeds stand out among other superfoods due to their impressive nutrient profile, which includes high-quality plant-based protein, essential fatty acids, and a variety of vitamins and minerals. Unlike chia or flax seeds, hemp seeds contain all nine essential amino acids, making them a complete protein source — an excellent option for vegans and vegetarians. Additionally, the balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in hemp seeds is ideal for supporting heart health, a feature that many other superfoods lack in the same ratio.
When compared to other popular superfoods like quinoa or spirulina, hemp seeds are particularly versatile and easy to incorporate into everyday meals. Their nutty flavor complements both sweet and savory dishes, from smoothies and salads to baked goods and cereals. Moreover, while superfoods like acai berries or goji berries can be more expensive and harder to find, hemp seeds are often more affordable and widely available, offering a nutrient-dense, accessible option for those looking to boost their diet with superfoods.
Hemp seed is safe to eat!
Hemp can be eaten by virtually anyone. It is safe for children, adults, pregnant and breastfeeding women, infants, seniors and even animals. Additionally, those unable to tolerate nuts, gluten, lactose, dairy and soy can usually safely consume hemp.
There are no known allergies to hemp and it makes a great milk or peanut butter alternative. If you’re new to hemp seeds, we suggest starting with Vasse Valley Raw Hemp Hearts. Start by adding them to salads, muesli, protein balls, porridge, smoothies etc. Hemp hearts also make a tasty, dairy-free milk alternative which we love in coffee. The high protein content makes it froth beautifully.
Visit our recipes page for more ideas on how to incorporate hemp into your diet. If you have any other concerns about hemp we welcome you to contact us directly.