Hemp protein | benefits

Whether you mix them into a protein shake with water, milk, or other ingredients, or incorporate them into a smoothie with fruits, vegetables, or peanut butter, protein powders provide a versatile way to provide you with energy and protein, especially if you don't have time to eat or prepare food. Obviously, protein powders provide a convenient way to fuel your muscles and body after a workout.

There are many types of protein powders, ranging from whey, egg, and casein proteins to plant-based options like pea, soy, or rice proteins.

If a few years ago hemp protein powder could only be found in specialized stores, today it has become a widespread and popular plant-based protein supplement.

If you're looking for practical ways to increase your protein intake and give your body the nutrients it needs to rebuild and repair after workouts or simply to fuel your daily vitality, check out the health benefits of hemp protein and how to incorporate this superfood into your diet.

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Preamble

The word “hemp” may remind you of recreational cannabis use and hippie fashion, but don’t worry, this isn’t hemp protein powder at all! Hemp is a strain of the Cannabis sativa plant, but is unrelated to marijuana and its associated recreational effects. In fact, hemp mainly contains cannabidiol (CBD), the substance that relaxes and acts as an anti-inflammatory, and not tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the substance that provides a high. In addition, it is the leaves and stems that contain the two aforementioned cannabinoids, but it is the hemp seeds that are used to make the protein powder. So rest assured, otherwise we will not find this protein powder in almost all organic aisles in France.

identification

There are a wide range of protein powders available, but hemp protein powder is an entirely plant-based alternative. It is made by grinding hemp seeds into a fine powder and can be added to shakes, smoothies, or foods to significantly increase the protein content!

As more and more people choose to follow a plant-based diet, and the health benefits of hemp protein become known, it is no surprise that this natural protein-rich powder is quickly gaining popularity. Its earthy and nutty taste is not too pronounced and therefore it can be added to other flavors without distorting it.

These proteins have an excellent nutritional profile and studies show that hemp has many health benefits.

What are its benefits?

First, hemp protein is a complete protein, like whey! This means that it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body must consume through food because it is unable to create them itself.

Other plant proteins, namely nuts, seeds, beans and grains, are incomplete proteins, making hemp, along with peas and soybeans, the reigning champions for people looking to consume plant proteins.

The body can make nonessential amino acids, but essential amino acids must be provided through the diet. The nine essential amino acids found in hemp protein powder are histidine, isoleucine, leucine, lysine, methionine, phenylalanine, threonine, tryptophan, and valine.

Studies have shown that the essential amino acid profile of hemp is similar to that found in soy and egg whites⁽¹⁾Which are often described as excellent sources of protein.

Easy to digest

When you decide to follow a healthy diet or a slimming diet, it is essential that you take care of your health. Your gut health is especially important. There is a common misconception that plants are easier to digest than animal products and offal, but this is not always the case.

However, clinical studies on the digestibility of hemp protein (and therefore hemp protein powder) show that up to 98% is completely digestible.⁽²⁾Which makes it incredibly easy for the body to absorb. This makes hemp protein a great choice for people with a sensitive stomach or irritable bowel syndrome.

Hemp contains edestin and albumin, both of which break down very quickly in the body, contributing to easy digestion.⁽³⁾.

Rich in nutrients

Some protein powders, especially those created specifically for health and fitness products, contain only protein and little else. This is not the case with hemp protein powder! In addition to its high protein content, hemp protein powder is very rich in vitamins and minerals.

It is an excellent source of fiber and omega-3 fatty acids. However, the real nutritional value lies in its minerals⁽⁴⁾. In fact, you'll find phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, iron, manganese, zinc, and copper in surprisingly high percentages.

Helps lose weight

Nothing is a miracle, just don't get excited too quickly. But hemp protein powder's combination of protein and dietary fiber makes it an ideal nutritional supplement for promoting weight loss.

In general, protein powders contain little fiber; The real advantage of hemp protein powder is that it is very rich in fiber!

Fiber promotes satiety and makes you feel less hungry more quickly. Not only does this prevent you from eating or drinking less in the moment, but it also maintains that feeling for longer than usual, especially preventing you from cravings for a snack afterwards.

Good for digestion

Traditional protein powders such as whey (whey from cow's milk) contain lactose. Although many protein manufacturers claim that their products contain low amounts of lactose, a small amount can cause reactions, especially in people with lactose intolerance.

If you experience bloating, gas, or other side effects from whey, this may be the case for you. For its part, hemp protein powder does not contain lactose, and therefore will not disrupt the digestion process. On the contrary, intestinal transit will be improved, especially thanks to its high content of dietary fiber, which is also a nutritional source for the intestinal microflora (good bacteria that help us stay healthy).

Good for your heart health

Hemp seeds contain fat, but don't worry: they're the good fat! Indeed, the unsaturated fats found in hemp are similar to those found in avocados, fatty fish and nuts, which are known for their many health benefits.

Unsaturated fats have been proven to be beneficial in lowering the level of bad cholesterol in the blood and thus reducing the risk of fat accumulation in the vessels, and thus the risk of cardiovascular disease and dysfunction.

In addition, hemp protein also contains high amounts of the amino acid arginine. Arginine is used to produce nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a gaseous substance in the body that causes blood vessels to dilate. This leads to lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart disease.

Hemp protein powder can be mixed with water, juice, milk or milk alternatives, or incorporated into smoothies and protein shakes. It can also be added to oatmeal, yogurt, or any other cereal.

Hemp protein can also be used in pancakes, bread dough, muffins, granola bars, muffins, or homemade protein bars. You can replace up to a quarter of the flour in any recipe with hemp protein powder to increase the protein, fiber, minerals and good fat content.

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