Hemp seeds may cause intolerance due to unique proteins and high fat content. Avoid them for 8 weeks, try supplements like digestive enzymes or probiotics, and reintroduce slowly. Pumpkin seeds or almond milk are excellent alternatives,
🌿 What Are Hemp Seeds?
Hemp seeds are the small, edible seeds of the hemp plant, known for their nutty flavor and nutrient density. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, protein, and essential minerals like magnesium and zinc.
🤔 Why Do I Have an Intolerance to Hemp Seeds?
Your sensitivity to hemp seeds may stem from:
- Proteins: Specific proteins, like edestin and albumin, in hemp seeds can trigger digestive upset.
- Fats: High-fat content, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, can challenge digestion.
- Processing Residues: Some hemp products may contain additives or traces of other allergens.
🛠️ What Can I Do About It?
- Avoid hemp seeds for 8 weeks to allow for potential symptom relief.
- Check for hidden hemp seed ingredients in milk, protein powders, and snacks.
- After 8 weeks, reintroduce hemp seeds slowly and consider retesting to evaluate changes.
💊 Which Supplements Can Help?
- Digestive Enzymes: Aid in breaking down proteins and fats.
- Probiotics: Support gut health and balance your digestive system.
- Curcumin: A natural anti-inflammatory to soothe sensitivity-related inflammation.
- Magnesium: Helps reduce digestive discomfort linked to intolerance.
🌟 Why Might I Have an Intolerance to Hemp Seeds but Not Other Seeds, Hemp Milk, or Hemp Protein?
- Protein Variability: Hemp seeds contain specific proteins like edestin, which might not carry over fully into hemp milk or protein products.
- Processing Differences: Hemp milk and protein undergo processes that may alter or remove potentially irritating components.
- Fat Composition: Whole hemp seeds are rich in fats, unlike some processed hemp products.
- Additives in Other Seeds: If other seeds are tolerated, they may lack the unique proteins or fats of hemp seeds.
🍽️ Popular Dishes and Alternatives
Dishes:
- Smoothies with hemp protein
- Hemp seed granola
- Salads with hemp seeds
- Hemp milk lattes
Alternatives (if tolerated):
- Pumpkin seeds
- Sunflower seeds
- Chia seeds
- Almond milk or pea protein