Hemp protein comes from the seeds of the cannabis sativa plant. It's related to the marijuana plant, yet hemp and hemp protein do not produce any psychotropic effects. The hemp nut, the part of the seed remaining once the seed's shell is removed, is 33 percent protein. Hemp protein is available as a powder or in seed form. Use the powder in smoothies, or sprinkle the seeds on salads and cereals. Hemp protein provides numerous dietary benefits.
Complete Protein
Your body needs 22 amino acids to function properly. The metabolism cannot produce eight of these amino acids, and produces insufficient amounts of another two. These essential amino acids must be obtained from dietary sources. Hemp protein contains all eight essential amino acids that the body cannot produce in adequate amounts, making it a complete protein on par with meat, egg whites, whey protein and soy. A serving of hemp protein powder contains between 6 and 15 g of protein, depending on the brand.
Beneficial for Vegans
Vegetarian diets, particularly vegan diets, may contain inadequate amounts of protein. Hemp protein is a complete plant protein that fits into any vegetarian meal plan. It provides an alternative to soy products, beans and nuts.
Hypoallergenic
Not many people are allergic to hemp, and it is not considered a food allergen. It contains no peanuts or soy, two of the most common allergens, according to the FDA. People with lactose or gluten intolerance can safely consume hemp protein.
Raw Food
Hemp protein powder is a raw product, meaning it was never heated above the temperature of 116 degrees F. People who follow a raw diet can include hemp protein as a protein source in most of their meals.
Easily Digested
Hemp protein is easily digested. Unlike soy, it does not contain compounds that interfere with your ability to absorb the protein it provides. Hemp protein is made up of two globular proteins called albumin and edestin. These proteins are readily digestible, as they are similar to the proteins manufactured by human blood, notes Gero Leson in the "Vote Hemp Report."
References
- "The Vote Hemp Report"; Nutritional Profile and Benefits of Hemp Seed, Nut and Oil;Gero Leson; 2002/2003
- Hemphasis: Hemp: A Complete Food
- "Hemp Line Journal"; Hemp Seed: The Most Nutritionally Complete Food Source in the World; July-August 1992
- USDA: Industrial Hemp in the U.S.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration: Guidance for Industry: Guidance on the Labeling of Certain Uses of Lecithin Derived from Soy Under Section 403(w) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act
Member Comments