HEMP: The King of Plant-Based Protein Powders

Author: Royal Hemp  Date Posted:18 June 2018 

Before we dig further into the superiority of hemp protein powder, we should establish the fact from hereon that hemp is not marijuana. They are often confused with one another because they look the same and because they belong to the same family of plants, the cannabis sativa L. What many people do not realize is that there is a difference between the two, especially the female ones. Female marijuana produces buds that have psychedelic effects. This is the part that is dried and smoked.

Hemp seeds today are used to produce the best source of protein. Any bodybuilder will never feel complete without a protein supplement. Protein is a building block of sustenance. It provides energy for the body and it is responsible for building muscle mass. But what differentiates hemp seed protein powder from the rest of protein sources out there?

Hemp Versus Soy

Soy protein is a natural derivative of soybeans. As part of the pea family, soy is rich in protein and is most of the time converted into soy milk. However, there are many companies that now manufacture powdered soybean protein and it is one of the leading competitors of hemp protein.

Soy-based protein, however, is known to give several side effects. Soy-based protein causes an increase in estrogen levels. Estrogen is a hormone that is the equivalent of testosterone for men. Testosterone is what makes your muscles bigger. It helps in repairing your damaged muscles and also helps in reducing fat.

The problem with estrogen is it does the opposite. So although soy is rich in protein, what it does is to give you the energy you need but it does not help you repair and build muscle mass, which is the reason you are taking protein supplements, to begin with. Hemp seeds do not do this to your body. You can take hemp protein and be assured that your estrogen levels will not increase.

Hemp Versus Chia

Chia seed is another formidable foe of hemp as far as protein value is concerned. In fact, it is revered by many as a superfood because it is dense with nutrients and is known to be an energy-food of ancient Aztecs in Mexico. Legend has it that one spoonful of chia can sustain a person for 24 hours. In the Mayan language, chia means strength.

The problem? A serving of chia can only give you 4.4 grams of protein. Sure, it will give you 137 calories and 12 grams of carbohydrates, but the reason you are taking a protein supplement is that you need it in your diet.

Since chia is also rich in fibre, which serves about 11 grams of fibre per ounce, you must expect that it will lead to digestive issues in the future. Although fibre is good for your health, too much fibre can upset your stomach. It will eventually lead to abdominal pain, a feeling of indigestion, constipation, bloating, gas, and diarrhea.

Despite the things that you see on advertisements, the real king of powdered protein is still the one made of hemp seeds. Hemp seed protein is packed with antioxidants, fiber, and minerals. A serving of powdered hemp protein, which is about four tablespoons, can give you the following:

  • 3 grams of healthy fat
  • 120 calories
  • 11 grams of carbohydrates
  • 5 grams of fiber
  • 26o grams of magnesium
  • 380 grams of potassium
  • 6.3 milligrams of iron
  • 60 milligrams calcium

Hemp protein is not known to give any other side effects other than the occasional loose bowel movement. Most protein powders, however, can cause gastrointestinal disturbances, nausea, fatigue, tiredness, and bloating. In fact, other protein powders can cause cramps and reduced appetite.

Hemp seed protein is the reigning protein supplement in the market. Despite the attempts to put it down and associate it with marijuana, one cannot deny the value that hemp protein gives and how it is far more superior than the rest.