A research showed that the global market of hemp protein powder was estimated at $558,000 in 2018 and has steadily grown ever since. Hemp powder is one of the most nutritious and beneficial proteins in the market, especially for vegetarians and vegans. Unfortunately, a lot of misinformation and confusion surround hemp protein powder.
Is hemp protein safe to consume? Does it get you high? Does it have health benefits? Here’s everything you need to know about this controversial superfood.
What is Hemp Protein Powder?
This is a popular nutritional supplement made by pressing whole raw hemp seeds. The oil is separated from the residue – a dry cake substance with a nutty, earthy taste. The cake is ground to make hemp protein powder. Hemp protein is powder from a plant-based protein supplement made from hemp seeds. It is a popular choice among vegans, vegetarians, and anyone looking for an alternative to traditional protein powders.
This is usually added to foods, shakes, and smoothies to boost protein content in the diet.
Nutritional Overview of Hemp Protein Powder
A ¼ cup of hemp powder (30 grams) contains about 15 grams of protein and around 120 calories. This will vary slightly depending on the brand. Additionally, the powder contains over 30% essential fatty acids and GLA.
How to Use Hemp Protein Powder: What is the Recommended Dosage?
Hemp protein powder has a fine texture, which makes it easily mix with a range of liquids. It’s mostly added to post- or pre-workout shakes.
Adults should take 10-15 grams of hemp proteins every day.
However, people who participate in physically strenuous activities require more proteins to maintain their muscle mass. Bodybuilders and athletes should consume hemp proteins within two hours after exercise. Five to 7 tablespoons (about 40 grams) of hemp protein powder are sufficient for bodybuilding.
Using Hemp Protein Powder in the Kitchen
With the rise of vegetarian and vegan diets, hemp powder is quickly gaining traction. It is a complete protein source with all the amino acids, including those your body can’t produce.
Besides shakes and smoothies, organic hemp protein powder is versatile enough to be mixed with baking flour, porridge, and even soups.
You can also use the powder to make protein bars, brownies, and cupcakes. If you don’t like its nutty flavor, you can always mix it with other flavors.
5 Incredible Health Benefits of Hemp Protein Powder
Hemp powder is not your regular protein supplement. Here’s why:
1. Complete Protein
Hemp powder is a complete protein since it has all the nine essential amino acids: valine, threonine, tryptophan, lysine, phenylalanine, methionine, leucine, histidine, and isoleucine. These amino acids are made up of oxygen, hydrogen, nitrogen, and carbon.
A study showed that the essential amino acids found in hemp are equivalent to that of egg whites and soy.
2. Reduce the Risk of Heart Illness
Heart disease is among the most common killer diseases in the world. But you can manage it by embracing heart-healthy diets like hemp protein powder.
Scientists suggest that consuming diets with low omega-6 to omega-3 ratios – like hemp protein powder – can reduce body inflammation and improve heart health.
Additionally, hemp seeds contain arginine, which produces nitric oxide. Nitric oxide enhances normal blood pressure and minimizes heart disease risk.
3. Easier to Digest than Animal Proteins
Clinical studies on hemp protein show that 98% of its content is completely digestible. This is an excellent choice for individuals with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) and sensitive stomachs.
Hemp seeds contain protein strains of albumin and edestin, which are easily broken down and digested.
4. Rich in Dietary Fiber
Organic hemp protein powder contains dietary fiber – a perfect dietary supplement to help you maintain a healthy weight and aid in weight loss.
Fiber also helps fight cravings. This does not only stop you from drinking or eating certain foods but also makes you feel full for longer. As a result, you can control the amount of food you eat.
Plus, the dietary fiber feeds the good bacteria in the gut and helps prevent sugar and cholesterol absorption into the blood. This greatly reduces cholesterol levels and regulates blood sugar levels.
The rich fiber content in hemp powder naturally cleanses the colon by eliminating toxins from the body and reducing constipation.
5. Builds and Repairs Muscles
One of the most popular uses of protein powder is increasing muscle growth. And the hemp protein powder is no different.
It contains all the BCAAs that activate pathways in the body to stimulate the synthesis of muscle protein (the process of building muscles).
According to one study, people who consume meals rich in BCAA like hemp protein have a 22% greater increase in muscle protein synthesis than people with regular diets. Hemp protein also enhances the repair of damaged muscles and tissues for quick recovery from injuries and soreness.
The Future of Organic Hemp Protein Powder
We’re still a long way to the full legalization of hemp, so it’s no surprise that this hemp product is quite misunderstood by consumers.
However, as more and more people learn about hemp and its benefits, we can be sure the consumption of hemp products like hemp protein powder will go up. Hemp is not only beneficial for your health but also for our environment.
Since all hemp parts are used to make something, the production process has little to no waste. What’s more, hemp is a hardy plant and doesn’t require any chemicals to grow.
Without a doubt, embracing hemp products is one of the gateways to a more sustainable future.
Does Hemp Protein Powder Make You High?
Absolutely not. Hemp contains less than 0.3% of THC content – the psychoactive compound in hemp. This negligible amount of THC cannot be detected in a drug test.
Where to Buy Hemp Protein Powder
Hemp protein powder is available in cannabis dispensaries, supplement stores, and health food stores all around the country. Additionally, many hemp brands have well-established local stores and sell online.
What other food products come from hemp? Subscribe to learn more.
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