hemp protein for health

Hemp Protein Benefits And Health Considerations

Hemp protein that is derived from the hemp plant, has made significant gains in popularity by health enthusiasts, fitness gurus, and nutrition experts. As with all protein powders it's important to understand the benefits and the health implications before starting to use the protein as a regular staple in your diet.

What is Hemp?

The hemp plant is a variety of Cannabis that contains only small amounts of THC. This is generally below 0.3% dry weight. Hemp is an individual variant and has a number of uses and it used as a food source due to it's fibre, seeds, healing compounds, and essential amino acids of Omega-3 and Omega-6.

By grinding hemp seed into a fine powder, hemp protein powder is made in a high quality plant-based protein. Consuming hemp is legal in Australia as long as the THC content is below 0.3% dry weight.

Does Hemp Protein Contain CBD?

As hemp protein is derived from hemp seeds, and not the flower of the plant, that contain cannabinoids, hemp protein does not contain THC or CBD.

How Is Hemp Protein Made?

Hemp protein powder is made from hemp seed meal. The hemp seeds (or hemp hearts) are processed into hemp seed meal. The hemp oil is removed generally using a cold expeller press, and what is left over is then milled into hemp powder.

Is Hemp Protein Better Than Whey Protein?

Hemp protein and whey protein are made from two completely different sources. Whey protein is made by utilising a byproduct of cheese production. Why protein cannot be advertised as dairy free, even though the lactose component has been removed, as there is a slight chance some lactose may remain. Hemp protein powder is completely plant based, and is easy to digest.

Hemp protein powder is also safe for vegans and vegetarians in their diet. Hemp protein powder contains all 20 amino acids, and the 9 essential amino acids. Whey protein does contain saturated fats and some cholesterol, where as hemp protein powder only contains unsaturated acids hemp.

Health Benefits Of Hemp Protein Powder

Hemp protein is a great source of soluble and insoluble nutrition. Hemp protein has a protein content of only 50%, so it is much easier to digest than many other sources of protein. No additives are involved in the process of making hemp, and therefore is a more natural food source in your diet.

Hemp protein powder as mentioned above contain all essential amino acid and contains unsaturated fats, which makes it a great candidate for improved heart health. Studies have suggested that the essential amino acids, essential omega 3 and essential omega 6, are in the complete optimum ratios for human consumption.

hemp protein for health

Great Source Of Fiber

Hemp protein powders are a great source of fibre. High fibre diets are well known to contribute many health benefits including improved blood sugar, healthy gut bacteria, and reduce risk of bowl cancer. See this study: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26269366

Contains High Levels Of Antioxidants and Minerals

Hemp powder is very rich in a number of mineral such as phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, iron, copper, zinc, and manganese. Hemp protein powder may contain slightly less levels of these minerals, due to the processing into powder, but still contain relatively high levels to other sources of protein.

 

Hemp Protein Powder - What Is It & Nutritional Facts

 

Hemp Protein Powder Can Be Used In Many Different Ways

Apart from the obvious health benefits and digestibility of hemp, it is very versatile in the way it can be consumed. Not only can it be added to almost any dish, it also can be used in baked goods. These extra benefits of hemp protein powder make it a go to protein for many Australians.

Smoothies

Not only do exercise and fitness fanatics consume hemp protein regularly, but everyday Australians who are conscious about their health and getting a healthy source of protein.

Hemp protein powder can be added to your favourite smoothie, and can be mixed with water, milk, almond milk, or your favourite juice. Many people chose to combine their daily super greens with hemp protein in their smoothies. One to two tablespoons is all that is needed in a health smoothie.

Add Hemp Protein While Cooking

Another great way to use hemp protein powder is in cooking. An example may be to add it to curries, stir frys, salads and sauces. We regularly have customers tell us they love adding it to their favorite dishes.

Adding Hemp Powder To Baked Goods

Many consumers will also add the powder to their baking, including bread, muffins and pizza. As the flavour of hemp protein powder is mild and nutty, it can actually enhance the flavour and texture of many baked goods. Certainly you don't want to forget protein balls that can be made using the powder.

Is Hemp Protein Powder Good For Weight Loss?

One of the questions we get asked regularly is the benefits of consuming hemp protein for weight loss. Some health experts claim that it can boost metabolism burn fat and build muscle. Other consumers will also say it will leave them feeling less hungry and reduce sugar cravings. It's common for nutritionists to recommend a high protein diet.

Vegans and vegetarians my often find this hard without the other common sources of protein such as meat and dairy products. In this case hemp protein is suitable alternative to supplement, even though it has less protein than other sources. This is made up though due to it high fibre content, which is also recommend for those looking to lose weight.

The extra possible benefits of reduced heart disease, improved digestion, reduced inflammation, essential fatty acids, and other nutritional elements mentioned above make hemp protein a true super food.

The Legalisation Of Hemp Foods In Australia

 

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