Are you Vegan and looking for dietary sources of high quality plant protein?

Are you looking for creative ways to incorporate high quality plant protein into your diet?

Hemp protein is an excellent dietary source of plant protein. Traditionally, protein powders such as whey have been used by athletes, bodybuilders and those trying to increase muscle mass. However, as more and more people including elite athletes are choosing plant based protein diets, so Hemp protein is becoming a more popular vegan substitute for whey and other animal based sources of protein.

Historically, we were taught that a plant based diet was inferior to an animal based diet but this is now proven to be untrue. Individuals and athletes following a plant based diet are seeing phenomenal results such as improved health and vitality and better performance outcomes.

What is the nutritional value of Hemp protein?

• Approximate values

Hemp protein is considered a complete protein because it contains all 9 essential amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks for protein. Some amino acids are synthesized by the body whereas others known as essential amino acids can only be derived from the diet.

Hempful’s hemp protein powder is made from hemp seeds that have been cold pressed to remove 90% of their oils. 90% of the remaining oil is unsaturated. The protein powder is naturally packed full of nutrition – antioxidants, minerals, fibre and heart-healthy unsaturated fats. Hemp protein provides an earthy nutty flavour and is the ideal ingredient to incorporate in:

• Breakfast smoothies (a far more exciting option to breakfast cereals or porridge)

• Post work out (60 minutess or more) energy-protein shakes. Increases glycogen re-synthesis rates and provides amino acids for muscle repair. Add 5-10g protein per 100g carbohydrates and ensure that the shake is consumed within 30 minutes post exercise.

• Supplemental shakes for those individuals who are unable to consume enough calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals on a daily basis. Examples include
  • loss of appetite (due to a chronic medical condition),
  • difficulty chewing and swallowing
  • post-surgical recovery
  • Increased calorie needs such as during cancer treatment.

Hemp protein boasts some impressive features:

• 100% plant based protein – suitable for vegans.
• Complete protein: contains all 9 essential amino acids needed by the body.
• Easy to digest – hemp contains the proteins globular edestin and albumin, which are easy to digest.
• Unique source of plant protein. Unlike most plant protein sources which contain fibrous protein, hemp offers a nutritive alternative called globular proteins.
• Gluten free.
• Excellent source of fibre (80% soluble/20% insoluble).
• Source of antioxidants and minerals such as magnesium, manganese, iron, zinc, B-vitamins and vitamin E.
• Source of unsaturated fats. 90% of the fat contained in Hemp protein powder is unsaturated. Additionally, hemp seeds contain an ideal 3:1 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acid
• Earthy nutty taste.

Hemp Smoothie Recipes:

Compiled by: Dr Corrinne Rae Giles (BScDietetics & MBBCh)