Hemp is a fast-growing crop that is inherently weed resistant. "It'll grow up to eight to 10 feet tall in 100 days," says organic agriculture pioneer Mike Fata, CEO of Manitoba Harvest Hemp Food and Oils. And the fact that it requires few, if any, pesticides makes hemp seeds a super-green diet staple.
Why They're Healthy: "Hemp seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke," says Cassandra Forsythe, PhD, a nutrition researcher at the University of Connecticut. What's more, a 1-ounce serving of the seeds provides 11 grams of protein—but not the kind of incomplete protein found in most plant sources. Hemp seeds provide all the essential amino acids, meaning the protein they contain is comparable to that found in meat, eggs, and dairy.
Eat Them: Toss 2 tablespoons of the seeds into your oatmeal, stir-fry, or post-workout shake.
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