HEMP PROTEIN

There are a lot of misconceptions concerning hemp and its health benefits.

For starters, hemp is a strain of cannabis that is specifically grown for industrial use. It is not the same as marijuana and you cannot expect it to give you the “high” from cannabis plants.

There are two primary components in hemp that are found in cannabis. Cannabidiol (CBD) is the compound that provides a relaxing effect and is anti-inflammatory, while tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) is the part that causes the euphoria.

However, industrial hemp contains very little THC that a user won’t be able to experience psychoactive effects when they consume it. This strain is specifically created to have low THC levels so there’s nothing to worry about.

That is why scientists have started exploring the benefits of hemp. One discovery that they learned about is that it makes for an excellent plant-based protein source.

Hemp protein is a powder that is made by grinding the seeds of hemp into fine particles. When made into powder, it gives off a smooth natural flavor and is very rich in nutrients.

As it is a plant-based source, the protein from hemp has become quite popular among lactose-intolerant individuals. Individuals who simply wish to follow a plant-based diet also prefer hemp protein.

Hemp contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. Studies have shown that hemp protein powder has similar protein content as that of egg whites and soy.

Another advantage of hemp protein is that it is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. This type of fatty acid is beneficial to the heart. Each scoop of hemp protein contains about 8 grams of fibre and 2 grams of omega-3 fatty acids.

Since it is made from hemp seeds, hemp protein powder provides a nutritional boost equivalent to that from flax seeds. Hemp protein powder provides a healthy dose of dietary fibre, minerals, and antioxidants without the added cholesterol, sugar, or sodium.

One serving – approximately 4 tablespoons (30 grams) – of top-quality hemp protein powder contains around:

• 120 calories
• 12 grams of protein
• 11 grams of carbohydrates
• 5 grams of fibre
• 3 grams of fat
• 380 milligrams of potassium
• 260 milligrams of magnesium
• 60 milligrams of calcium
• 6.3 milligrams of iron

Hemp protein powder offers a range of benefits that makes it a good choice for just about any person.

1. Improves Protein Intake

When you consume hemp protein powder regularly, you are directly increasing the overall protein intake your body needs. Protein is important because it makes up the vital parts of your body, such as the muscles, tissues, and organs.

Proteins are also essential in developing, growing, and maintaining nearly every part of the body. Besides that, the macronutrient boosts metabolism while increasing fat-burning potential.

People who are not getting their daily protein requirement can find it hard to lose weight. They can also suffer from mood swings, constant fatigue, and other health issues.

Being a high source of protein, hemp protein powder allows you to avoid protein deficiency and get the protein your body needs.

2. It Benefits the Heart

Hemp seeds contain an ideal balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids that are beneficial to cardiovascular health. Specifically, hemp protein powder has linolenic acid, a type of fatty acid that is said to help prevent heart disease.

3. Reduces Risk of Osteoporosis

As mentioned earlier, hemp is rich in essential omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, particularly the gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Researchers have found that people who are not getting enough of these essential fatty acids are more likely to experience bone loss than those with normal levels of them.

In one study, women who were over 65 years of age and who took GLA and EPA supplements experienced less bone loss in three years than those who consumed placebo. Many of the subjects of the study also experienced higher bone density after.

4. It Benefits the Colon

Hemp protein powder is rich in both insoluble and soluble fibre. These two forms of fibre are beneficial to the colon, as it can cleanse and reduce constipation. There is also the possibility that this fibre could protect against colorectal cancer development.

Including fibre to any diet by way of hemp protein powder can also reduce the risk of diarrhea, hemorrhoids, and diverticulosis.

5. It Minimises Sugar Cravings

Since hemp protein powder has a high nutrient content, it makes for a great partner to fight against unhealthy cravings for sweets. Hemp seed food products provide users with a dose of healthy dietary fibre, which can help regulate blood sugar.

By keeping glucose levels steady, you are going to experience less energy problems while helping you avoid sugar cravings.

On average, an individual requires at least half of their body weight in protein every day. This ratio increases for people who are athletes. By adding hemp protein to your diet, you can quickly meet your daily protein requirement.

As such, search for hemp protein powders that only have a single ingredient: hemp protein. You don’t want to have dairy, lactose, hexane, or sweeteners added to your product.

Typically, hemp protein powder should be taken at least one to four tablespoons daily.

You can consume hemp protein just like you would any other protein powder. You can mix it into a shake or smoothie for breakfast or take it as a pre- or post-workout supplement. You can also just blend hemp protein powder with your favorite fruit drink.

Hemp protein powder can be added to yogurt, hot cereal, granola bars, pancakes, muffins, cakes, breads, and brownies. Some people have used hemp protein to replace about 25% of their flour in baked goods. Doing so adds fibre, healthy fats, nutrients, and of course, protein to the finished product.

Just like any protein supplement, hemp protein powder has to be consumed concerning one’s overall dietary protein goals. Also, consider how much protein is consumed through other sources. Each person has different protein goals so it is best to seek advice from a nutritionist if you are unsure.

There are potential side effects when taking hemp protein powder. People who have any health concerns should consult their doctor before deciding to purchase it. This is especially true for those taking blood-thinning medicine.

Hemp Protein powder may cause mild diarrhea. However, the best way to prevent this is to start with a low dosage (at least one teaspoon) and slowly increase this.

Individuals that have herpes infections (as well as cold sores) should be careful when taking hemp protein powder. This is because the protein content has high levels of arginine. Arginine is an amino acid that is essential for wound healing, immune function, and hormone production.

However, high levels of arginine could encourage the spread of herpes infections since it is needed by the virus to replicate. Those with chronic, acute, or recurring herpes infections should avoid consuming any hemp seed product regularly.

The primary warning when taking hemp seed protein is for individuals who have autoimmune conditions. Hemp protein powder is made up of up to 65% globulin edistin, a component required by the body to make blood proteins. It is also required for immune system boosters like gamma globulin and antibodies.

Although this may sound beneficial for most people, patients with autoimmune conditions may find hemp products to be too stimulating for their immune system.