If you’re in the market for a healthy protein powder, you may be overlooking one of the best options available: hemp. Yes, hemp is a powerful plant-based source of protein and fiber, a terrific potential supplement for your diet that doesn’t receive as much attention because of a misconception.
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“Hemp and marijuana both come from the cannabis plant, but hemp has very little tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the chemical that causes marijuana’s psychedelic effect,” says registered dietitian Amanda Kusske, RD. That makes hemp perfectly safe to ingest without worrying about any adverse reaction.
In fact, hemp carries several benefits when used as a protein powder, as Kusske explains.
What is hemp protein and how’s it different from other proteins?
“Hemp protein is a vegan, plant-based protein powder that’s made from hemp plants,” says Kusske. “And one big advantage is that hemp protein doesn’t require nearly as much processing as other proteins.”
Other proteins, like soy, require several steps and an extraction process to form a usable protein powder, she points out. For hemp protein, though, it’s simply grinding hemp seeds into a fine powder.
Hemp is also a highly sustainable, low-impact plant, so using it as a protein powder is earth-friendly.
What are the health benefits of hemp protein?
According to Kusske, hemp is one of the few complete protein sources. “This means that it contains all nine essential amino acids that we need in our diet,” she says.
Additionally, it’s high in fiber with one serving — about four tablespoons — containing 11 grams of fiber, about one-third of the daily recommended amount for adults. It’s the only protein powder that packs such a fiber-heavy punch, Kusske notes.
Hemp fiber also contains omega-3 and omega-6 unsaturated fatty acids that are good for your heart health, as well as your immune system and digestion. Your body doesn’t produce these fats, so getting them in your diet is important. There’s also a good amount of nutrients like iron, magnesium and manganese, which, Kusske says, aren’t always found in protein powder.
And if you are vegan or vegetarian, it’s a perfect fit as a completely plant-based protein source. That’s especially important, as many vegans and vegetarians don’t always get the necessary amount of protein due to a lack of animal protein in their diet.
However you decide to add it to your diet, though, Kusske reminds us that no protein powder should be your only source of protein “It’s important to get as much variety in our diet as we can,” she says, “but for boosting your protein intake a bit, it can be a good addition to your diet.”
Are there any risks to hemp protein?
Unless you’re allergic to hemp, Kusske says there aren’t any risks. Just be sure that hemp protein is used as a supplement, not a replacement for anything in your diet.
What are the side effects of hemp protein powder?
While there aren’t any real risks to hemp protein, that doesn’t mean there aren’t any side effects. For one, that big dose of fiber could have an effect, especially if you’re not used to eating a lot of fiber.
“In that situation, it could cause some gas, bloating and a bit of digestive distress,” explains Kusske, “so it’s best to start in small amounts and gradually build up.”
And, as always, it’s best to consult your healthcare provider first, as they’re best suited to help you make any planned changes to your diet based on your specific situation.
