I've seen hemp seed used as a crunchy topping in a ton of salads and even a few desserts. But I've always wondered, what are hemp seeds? With a little bit of digging, I found that hemp seeds come from the Cannibus sativa plant and are packed with nutrients and proteins. 

Hemp seeds have multiple health benefits, and can facilitate weight loss, increase energy, aid recovery from disease or injury, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, reduce inflammation, improvement in circulation and immune system and natural blood sugar control. Hemp seeds also provide the body with essential fats (Omega 3 & 6), antioxidants, fiber, magnesium, potassium, and more. 

Even better, hemp seeds are gluten-free and lactose-free, and there are no known allergies to hemp food or seeds. To help you incorporate this superfood into your diet, I've listed a few recipes with hemp seed for you try.

1. Hemp Ice Cream

dessert, bilberry, berry, blueberry
Kristine Mahan

Sometimes we're craving ice cream, but need a healthy snack. This is where hemp ice cream comes in. Creamy, cool, and healthy, it will satisfy your sugar cravings.

2. Chia and Hemp Seed in Yogurt 

herb, sweet, cereal
Susanna Tuan

After adding chia and hemp seed to your yogurt, you'll completely forget about store-bought granola. The combination of the crunchy of the seeds and the smooth yogurt is unbeatable. 

3. Sweet Potato Bowl 

chocolate, vegetable, pepper
Alyssa Cronin

Though hemp hearts may not be the MVP in this dish, they still plays a huge role in this sweet potato bowl. It provides you with a ton of nutrients and vitamins that make this bowl even healthier. 

4. Peanut Butter Banana Protein Smoothie 

When you're craving a PB&J, you can turn to this peanut butter banana protein smoothie. It's easy to make with and is nearly as good as the real thing. Hemp seed plays an integral role, as they reduce the need for additional sugar in the smoothie. 

5. Dark Chocolate Bark 

sweet, candy, chocolate
Allie Bienenstock

Hemp seeds are so good they even makes your desserts a little healthier. Mix them into this dark chocolate bark for a real treat. You can even add almond butter and dried blueberries for more nutrients and flavor. 

6. Protein Smoothie 

dairy product, yogurt, sweet, cappuccino, chocolate, pudding, coffee, cream, milk
Rachel Dyckman

Protein smoothies are perfect post-workout, as you can incorporate protein in many different ways. From hemp seeds to protein powder to peanut butter, you can try something new every day. 

Now that you know all about hemp seeds, it's your turn to incorporate them into your life.