Unleashing the Potential of Hemp Protein Powder: A Versatile Nutritional Supplement
More and more people are turning to plant-based diets, either for ethical or nutritional reasons. There is a growing awareness that eating less meat and more plants is kinder to animals, the planet, and our bodies.
However, getting enough high-quality protein as a vegetarian or vegan can sometimes take work. Fortunately, this isn’t insurmountable. Hemp protein powder is a versatile and healthy nutritional supplement that is sustainable and cruelty-free.
And it isn’t only those following plant-based diets who may benefit from adding hemp protein to their diets. Read on to learn more.
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Hemp Nutritional Benefits
Hemp seeds are rich in nutrition, including vitamins, minerals, and an optimal balance of healthy omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. According to the USDA database, 100g of hemp seeds provides the following:
- Energy: 553 kcal
- Protein: 31.6 g
- Fat: 48.8 g
- Carbohydrate: 8.61 g
- Fibre: 4 g
Hemp seeds also contain numerous micronutrients, including:
- Vitamin A
- B vitamins
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Calcium
- Copper
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Manganese
- Potassium
- Phosphorus
- Zinc
As you can see, hemp seeds are an excellent source of nutrition, including high-quality protein. Let’s take a look at why hemp seeds are a fantastic option when it comes to plant-based protein.
An Ideal Plant-Based Protein Source
Protein is comprised of smaller molecules called amino acids. They are released through the digestive process and have numerous crucial functions within the body.
There are two varieties of amino acids; non-essential and essential. Our bodies can synthesise non-essential amino acids using other nutrients. However, essential amino acids must be obtained from food.
There are nine essential amino acids, each with a unique and critical role in our health and well-being. They include the following:
- Histidine
- Isoleucine
- Leucine
- Lysine
- Methionine
- Phenylalanine
- Threonine
- Tryptophan
- Valine
Hemp Protein Powder Serving Suggestions
Hemp protein powder is a convenient and versatile way to enjoy the nutritional benefits of hemp seeds. Some of the most popular ways of using it include:
- Adding a scoop to shakes and smoothies
- Mixing with oats to make high-protein porridge
- Boosting the protein content of soups and sauces
- Using to create homemade protein bars
- Baking protein-rich brownies or muffins
It’s easy to find hemp protein powder recipes online, ranging from easy to complex and suiting a variety of tastes. However, first, you will need to source your hemp protein powder, and finding a reliable brand isn’t always easy.
Choosing Top-Quality Hemp Protein Powder
When you are trying to improve your health, everything you put into your body counts. Therefore, you will want to ensure that your hemp protein powder is clean, natural, and safe.
Hemp is a bioaccumulator and easily absorbs toxins from its environment. For this reason, it is essential to pay attention to where the plants were grown. Look for homegrown hemp wherever possible, as it will have been cultivated according to strict farming standards.
You should also look at the product’s other ingredients. It is best to avoid those with long and unpronounceable names and choose familiar and natural ingredients instead. It is also best to steer clear of hemp protein powder with added sugar and opt for natural sweeteners such as monk fruit powder or stevia.
The final consideration is the product’s protein content per serving. There is little point in buying hemp protein powder that skimps on this vital nutrient. Most adults need to consume 48-60g of protein daily, although these figures can vary depending on body weight and physical activity levels.
Trying to meet all your protein requirements with protein powder is inadvisable. After all, there is no replacement for a healthy diet! However, if you choose a hemp protein powder with around 12g of protein per serving, it could make up 20% of your daily needs.
So, if you are looking for a tasty and simple way to boost your protein intake with a healthy, plant-based supplement, hemp protein powder is the ideal solution.
