The Ultimate Guide to Hemp Protein: What it is and how to add it in your diet

Hemp is a great plant. It's one of the most highly nutritious foods on the planet, and it's also incredibly versatile. Hemp seeds can be eaten raw, roasted, ground into flour, or made into oil. They can be added to any meal as a primary ingredient or a supporting one. We will explore many different benefits of hemp protein in this article - so keep reading! To help you get to know this superfood better, we've compiled an ultimate guide to hemp protein. Let's get started...

What is Hemp Protein?

Hemp protein is a plant-based protein powder made from hemp plant seeds. Hemp seeds are high in protein. In fact, they contain all essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. Easily digestible and packed full of healthy fats, hemp protein, is quickly gaining popularity for its qualities as a "superfood".

Protein powders are popular supplements used by athletes and those just looking to supplement their protein intake above and beyond their everyday diet. 

Hemp seeds also contain fibre and are a great source of healthy fats like omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9 fatty acids. Hemp protein is made by grinding up hemp seeds into a fine powder. Hemp protein can be mixed into shakes, smoothies, and other beverages or used in baking and cooking. Hemp protein is also combined with other ingredients to create high-protein snacks and bars.

Hemp is a high-quality vegan protein that contains all essential amino acids, fibre, healthy fats and minerals. Hemp protein powders are rich in fibre, a nutrient that has many valuable health-promoting features. It's a good source of iron and calcium and also contains a variety of other nutrients, including B vitamins, magnesium and vitamin E.

How Much Protein is in Hemp Seeds?

Hemp seeds are said to contain almost as much protein as soybeans. In every 30 grams of seeds, there is around 9.46g of protein. Hemp seeds are a complete source of protein, meaning that they provide all nine essential amino acids. Very few plant-based foods are complete sources of protein, which makes hemp seeds a valuable addition to a vegetarian or vegan diet. A serving also contains about 8 grams of healthy fats, including a good amount of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. It can also be high in sodium, depending on the brand you choose. Hemp protein is also naturally gluten-free, lactose-free, and vegan. It contains no cholesterol and very little sodium, making it a healthy and wholesome protein source.

With its above-average digestibility, high protein content and plant-based nature, hemp protein is an ideal choice for athletes and high-performance muscle-building enthusiasts looking to maximise their recovery and ensure they are getting other essential vitamins and amino acids. 

What Does Hemp Taste Like?

Hemp protein has an earthy, nutty taste and is easy for the human body to digest. Many traditional protein powders are animal proteins, but some research suggests that between 91–98% of the protein in ground hemp seeds is digestible for humans! Studies show that this could be down to the fact that hemp contains the proteins edestin and albumin, which the human body can break down very quickly and immediately knows what to do with. Additional benefits of hemp protein include immune-enhancing and anti-fatigue properties. 

Hemp protein, in general, might be easy to digest, but always look for Australian Made and Organic hemp protein to ensure it is of the highest quality. 

What Are The Benefits Of Eating Hemp?

It's easy on the environment: Hemp is easy to grow, uses few resources, and is pesticide-free. It can be grown in many climates and soil types, making it a sustainable crop that doesn't put a lot of strain on the environment. By contrast, other protein sources like soybeans, corn, and even peanuts are very resource-intensive to produce. Other protein sources, like soybeans, are often genetically modified to produce more. It's high in fibre and protein: As we discussed above, hemp is high in protein and fibre, which is excellent for digestion and gut health. It has a mild flavour: While other plant-based protein sources have a distinct flavour, hemp has a very mild flavour. This makes it very versatile, and it can be blended with other ingredients seamlessly.

Many people choose to eat hemp protein because they want to reduce fat intake. Hemp protein is deficient in fat and cholesterol, with roughly 1 gram of fat per serving, and it's easily digested. It doesn't cause bloating as other protein sources do.

How To Add Hemp Protein To Your Diet?

There are many different ways to add hemp protein to your diet. It is incredibly versatile and can be incorporated into your diet in several ways. You can add it straight to food, mixed into smoothies like traditional protein powders or added into baking; the list is only hampered by how far your imagination can take it! You can mix it with yogurt or oatmeal or use it to make healthy baking recipes.

To get you started, feel free to check out some of our simple recipes that you can make to try the Hemp Protein Powder for yourself.

Hemp Protein can also be given to animals and is a super nutritious meal, check out the vet formulated BUDDYPET - Cooper product here. Blended with chickpea to add additional carbohydrates for our furry friends. 

Peanut Butter Banana Hemp Shake: Get the Recipe

Cherry Choc Hemp Ice-Cream: Get the Recipe

Chocolate Banana Flourless Protein Muffins: Get the Recipe

Where Can I Buy Hemp Protein?

Hemp products for food are legal to purchase in Australia. Hemp Protein powders are widely available from many companies and health food stores. As mentioned before, it is encouraged that you look for a hemp protein powder that is made using the cold-pressed method to ensure the maximum efficiency of the finished product. Also, anything to consider is any additives or fillers that might be contained in the product. Many impostor hemp products are on the market, and blended hemp extracts don't have the same health benefits as hemp protein. It's also important to check the serving size, as some products have less protein per serving than others. 

Always look for products that are 100% hemp seed protein and preservative-free. It's also important to support local Australian businesses to ensure this industry continues to thrive in the future.

Want to try some hemp protein powder for yourself? Luckily, we have you covered! Made from hemp sourced from Tasmania and Victoria, head over to the website to find out more information on our 100% Raw Hemp Protein.  

Conclusion

Hemp is a fantastic superfood that's packed with protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals. It's also low in fat and easy to digest. Hemp protein is a great way to get these nutrients in your diet and can be used in many different ways. Whether you're vegan, vegetarian, or want to add more protein to your diet, hemp protein is a great choice.