The importance of protein from different sources is frequently overlooked in terms of diet and health. Protein is essential to life and a lack can lead to a variety of illnesses. Many sources of protein are readily available such as poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, beans, nuts, seeds, and soy. Other types of protein sources include whey, casein, egg whites, and other dairy products.1
Various types of foods that contain protein include milk, cheese, peanut butter, and yogurt. While most protein-rich foods come in the form of a powder, it is possible to incorporate some types of meat, seafood, and poultry into your diet. It is important to combine different types of protein sources for the maximum benefit. When searching for protein sources, look for those that have a higher proportion of carbs and fat and lower amounts of protein.
When searching for a protein source, look for foods that contain the types of protein you want such as whey, casein, egg whites, or other dairy products. Also, look for foods that offer the types of protein you need such as fish, chicken, turkey, and beef.
What is Hemp Protein?
This is a question that is now being asked quite frequently by many people, both people who are interested in supplementing their current diet with hemp and those who are curious about what it is. It has been around for years, but many people do not realize just how useful it can be in your everyday life.2 If you’re wondering what hemp protein is, then there are several things that you need to know about it before you can make an educated decision.
First of all, when we talk about hemp protein, what we really mean is hemp seed. The protein found in hemp seeds consists of both globular forms of proteins, namely, erythropoietin and albumin, which are both rich in the required amino acids and the epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which is actually a fiber.
To sum it up, hemp protein has been created through the removal of chemical additives and processes that remove any beneficial nutritional qualities from protein. Instead, what remains are simple carbohydrates that have no nutritional benefits, which is why this protein should only be used as a low-quality source of protein. If you are looking to add protein into your diet and are looking for an excellent source that provides good sources of both fats and proteins, then consider hemp protein powder.3 Not only does it contain a variety of nutrients that your body needs, but it also contains trace minerals, vitamins, and enzymes. This makes it a great option for any individual looking to find a nutritious yet flavorful protein that is also great for their body.
What Are the Benefits of Hemp Protein?
This popular plant has many useful traits, including the ability to be used as a source of food and fuel. We use a lot of meat today, but that source of protein – beef – comes with a whole range of possible side effects, from heightened allergic reactions to antibiotic resistance.4 What’s more, most of the food that is produced with cattle blood and other animal products is unhealthy in several ways. Why choose hemp protein, which is free of unwanted side effects and rich in nutritional benefits?
One of the most beneficial aspects of hemp protein is that it is made up almost entirely of plant material. It consists mainly of protein and a small number of fatty acids. But studies suggest that it may also contain essential fatty acids and other nutrients that are not contained in plant food sources, such as fish oil and algae. Essential fatty acids are essential to human health and are crucial to the functioning of many of our organs. So taking hemp protein may benefit your cardiovascular system, as well as increasing the levels of essential fatty acids in your body.5
There are many benefits of hemp protein powders, but the two most important are its high-quality protein and the presence of several vital nutrients. Protein is made up of amino acids – these are the building blocks of protein. Many people don’t get enough protein in their diets, either because they can’t get enough from plant sources or because their diet is nutritionally poor. Hemp protein is unique in that it is high in protein and yet low in fat. It is also rich in vitamins, which is what most people take for granted. In fact, most of us don’t get enough vitamins, much less from nutritional supplements.
Another important reason why the benefits of hemp protein are important to consider is that it contains essential amino acids that support your immune system. One of the most important amino acids, called lysine, is only found in hemp seeds. Edestin is a type of carotenoid – a pigment responsible for creating red, orange, and yellow eyes. Most of us don’t get enough of this nutrient in our diets. And, while consuming edestin-rich foods may give you extra protection from free radicals, they will not help improve your overall immune system.
But, when you consider the benefits of hemp protein, you must also consider the fact that it is high in fiber. When you combine that with the fact that it is an excellent source of protein, which supports the functioning of the immune system, you begin to see why this product is so popular. This is especially true if you use it topically, like a shot or a pre-workout supplement. Today, many athletes combine the benefits of hemp protein powder with natural whey protein to provide an intense workout, rich in protein and immune-boosting nutrients. For example, professional bodybuilders use edestin and hemp protein powders to build lean muscle mass quickly. This helps give you a quick boost of energy and keeps your immune system strong.6
Finally, one more reason to consider trying hemp seed protein is that it is made up of high levels of fibers. Studies have shown that this makes a person feel full longer, thus reducing the risk of overeating. The high levels of fiber in this product also help lower cholesterol, which means that you are less likely to develop heart disease. And, studies show that people who consume this type of fiber consistently have lower incidences of diabetes and certain cancers. All of these things add up to a very compelling case for considering this new superfood.
Hemp Protein Bar Recipes Are Easy to Come By
Finding the best recipes for protein bars can be a challenge if you don’t know where to look. There are lots of places where you can buy hemp protein powder but many don’t have the type of recipes you want. Here is how to find hemp protein bar recipes that will help you take advantage of all the benefits of this powerful supplement.
The first place to start is the internet. There are dozens of websites dedicated to all kinds of health and fitness information. In particular, hemp protein bar recipes should feature ingredients such as coconut oil, fats, fruits, vegetables, and nuts. There are also some great vegan recipes for those people who don’t eat meat or dairy products. There are even hemp protein supplements with recipes that have whole grains as an ingredient.7
Once you’ve found a few websites that offer healthy hemp protein powder recipes, the next step is to really examine what is offered. There is a big difference between recipes that are simply protein bars and those that actually contain a good variety of nutrients. For example, many of the top brands like Casein, Optimum, and Fage don’t include any vegetables in their product. They focus on proteins and other elements such as vitamins and minerals.
When it comes to these types of recipes, you may be able to find them easier at your local health food store. Even if they don’t have what you want, some will be willing to make substitutions to meet your needs. You’ll also find that there are lots of great recipes available online. Many of these websites offer tips and advice on how to make the best use of ingredients to create the right kind of product for your needs.
Baked Hemp Protein Bars
The ingredients you should use are 1 cup hemp protein powder, 3/4 cup ground almonds, 2 tbsp cocoa powder, 1 tsp cinnamon 10 Medjool dates and 1-2 tbsp melted coconut oil.8
- First, you can preheat the oven to 330 degrees Fahrenheit (170 Celsius).
- Add all ingredients except for the hemp protein powder into a mixing bowl and mix until combined.
- Proceed by adding in protein powder and stir until completely mixed in with other ingredients.
- Line the baking dish with parchment paper and pour the mixture into the dish and spread evenly. Bake for 25 minutes, then allow cooling before attempting to move bars out of the baking dish (otherwise they’ll break apart).
- Finally, you can cut into the desired amount of bars. Store in an airtight container for up to a week or freeze for longer storage.
Image Credits
Food Revolution Network / Google Stock Images
Branchline Brewing / Google Stock Images
Gluten-Free Heaven / Google Stock Images
Little Rock / Google Stock Images
The Daily Meal / Google Stock Images
1 “The Benefits of Protein – WebMD.” https://www.webmd.com/diet/benefits-protein Accessed 15 Sep. 2021.
2 “Hemp Protein: Health Benefits, Nutrition, and Uses – WebMD.” 10 Nov. 2020, https://www.webmd.com/diet/hemp-protein-health-benefits Accessed 15 Sep. 2021.
3 “5 hemp protein powder health benefits – Your Super.” https://yoursuper.com/pages/hemp-protein-powder Accessed 15 Sep. 2021.
4 “Hemp Protein Powder: The Best Plant-Based Protein? – Healthline.” 4 Aug. 2018, https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hemp-protein-powder Accessed 15 Sep. 2021.
5 “How to Use Hemp Protein Powder – the Benefits | Happy Way.” https://www.happyway.com.au/blogs/news/how-to-use-hemp-protein-powder Accessed 15 Sep. 2021.
6 “Hemp Protein Powder: The Best Plant-Based Protein? – Healthline.” https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/hemp-protein-powder Accessed 15 Sep. 2021.
7 “How to Use Hemp Protein Powder – the Benefits | Happy Way.” https://www.happyway.com.au/blogs/news/how-to-use-hemp-protein-powder Accessed 15 Sep. 2021.
8 “Vegan Hemp Protein Bars | no-bake and only 6 Ingredients!.” 10 Jan. 2018, https://runningonrealfood.com/vegan-hemp-protein-bars/ Accessed 15 Sep. 2021.