Until the 2018 Farm Bill, growing hemp in the United States was an illegal practice. The plant was erroneously lumped in with marijuana because they come from the same plant family. Of course, hemp is a far cry from its psychoactive cousin. The truth is that hemp has several beneficial uses, spanning from textiles and paper to bioplastics and even food. Hemp has also been a source of nutrition for humans for millennia – now, it is time to rekindle our love for this delicious, protein-filled food.
As more people become aware that meat and dairy farming is not sustainable, there is a push for plant-based protein sources that can meet our needs. Could hemp be the planet’s saving grace in this regard? Let’s take a little closer look.
How Are Hemp Proteins Made?
The production of hemp protein requires an abundance of healthy and ripe hemp seeds. Hemp seed oil is first extracted from the seeds by cold pressing, and hemp cake is obtained as a by-product. The hemp cake is then sieved several times. If the cake is only “roughly” sown, it produces hemp flour, rich in dietary fiber, most of which is retained in the seed shells.
Further high granulation sieving removes larger particles of hemp seed shells, which leaves much more protein-rich particles found inside the seeds (hemp hearts). Thus, hemp plant protein powder is obtained.
What Are the Health Benefits of Hemp Protein?
In addition to its protein content alone, hemp protein powders often include two other components that support excellent health.
Fiber
Hemp contains both soluble and insoluble fiber. Most of its protein products contain around 10 grams per serving—almost half of the FDA’s 25-gram Recommended Daily Value (for those following a standard 2,000-calorie diet).
The soluble fiber in hemp protein is a source of beneficial digestive bacteria that have been shown to help regulate blood sugar. The insoluble fiber assists the body in passing waste through your intestinal tract.
Fiber is also filling, making hemp protein an excellent choice for use in a meal-replacement shake. In this regard, it may be a better choice than whey protein, which offers virtually no fiber.
Healthy Fats
Hemp protein often offers three grams of fat per serving, coming from omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which have been found to support heart health. Omega-3s are hard to come by in non-fish sources, and hemp’s high stearidonic acid content (a type of omega-3) makes it a good alternative for those who don’t eat fish.
Incredible benefits of hemp protein
There are many benefits of hemp protein.
#1) Boosts Immune System
Consuming hemp protein is a simple yet highly effective way to supply the body with a nutritious boost.
Hemp seeds contain the globular proteins – edestin and albumin. Why is this important? Enzymes, antibodies, hormones, and fibrinogen are all made from globular proteins.
Also, edestin and albumin make up the fluid in a portion of the blood plasma. As a result, these proteins are essential to supporting a healthy immune system.
#2) Increases Energy Levels
Are you feeling lethargic? It turns out; you may want to swap your daily dose of caffeine for hemp protein.
Hemp protein powder contains all essential fatty acids. When fatty acids are ingested, they produce twice as much energy as carbohydrates. Besides, proteins take longer to break down in the body. In turn, it causes energy to be released much slower. So not only does hemp increase energy levels, but it also sustains energy throughout the day.
#3) Strengthens Hair
Hemp protein is loaded with omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and omega-9 fatty acids. This ultra-high concentration of healthy fats helps promote healthy hair growth. Omega-3 fatty acids also add sheen and luster to the hair. Some research even suggests omega-3 fatty acids are shown to reverse hair loss.
#4) Reduces Inflammation
Did you know hemp has an ideal ratio of fatty acids along with other nutrients to reduce inflammation?
In fact, according to one study published in the Journal of Arthritis and Rheumatism, ingesting the GLA (gamma-linolenic acid) protein in hemp alleviated arthritis symptoms by 20%. Essentially, by intervening with the body’s ability to produce pro-inflammatory molecules, GLA reduced chronic inflammation.
#5) Improves Digestion
Conventional protein powders like whey are loaded with animal products such as lactose.
Although many protein producers claim their products contain minimal lactose, a small amount can cause a chain reaction – particularly for lactose-intolerant people. As a result, some people may experience bloating, gassiness, and other internal distress from consuming lactose. Hemp seeds, on the other hand, actually aid in digestion. Due to the high concentration of soluble and insoluble fiber, hemp protein puts the digestive tract at ease.
#6) Repairs Muscle
When it comes to restoring muscle tissue, bodybuilders and athletes alike turn to protein powders. After all, protein is key to building muscle. However, what many people are not aware of is that hemp is a complete protein source. Hemp protein helps repair body muscle and tissue because it contains all essential amino acids.
Better yet, as a plant-based protein, hemp protein powder supplies the body with sufficient protein but is also hypoallergenic and suitable for people with soy, gluten, egg, or dairy sensitivities.
When choosing where to buy your supplements from you need to pick the very best manufacturer for the job. Alchemy Nutra is the best in the business because we work with the best formulators to create unique products that have the correct amount of each ingredient. With the exact amount of each ingredient, your customers can receive the benefits and results that you are marketing. Contact us today and learn more!
