Hemp protein is popping up in stores all over the country and with good reason: This super food packs one of the most bio-available proteins in existence, is packed with a myriad of health boosting vitamins and minerals, and it is completely plant based. I would suggest you re-think that old Whey protein sitting on top of your refrigerator.
If you haven't heard of Hemp protein before it's probably because it is illegal to grow Hemp in the good ole US of A. Actually the majority of Hemp protein supplements come down from our brothers up north ( It's not illegal to have here, just grow hemp plants.) Hemp is a non-THC containing mostly male relative of the marijuana plant. The stigma and the fact must be grown in Canada is why it still holds a slightly higher price point in the market. This is however starting to come down due to the popularity of the protein.
Many of us, including myself have used whey protein -- with great success I might add. That doesn't mean we should count out this little Super Seed! Hemp Protein packs a bigger punch than you might have been led to believe.
HEMP PROTEIN BENEFITS1. MORE BIO-AVAILABLE FORM OF PROTEIN: Hemp protein contains ~65% globulin edestrin which is the most easily digestible protein out there. It's easily broken down by the body unlike some other Soy and Whey based proteins.
2. "COMPLETE" PLANT PROTEIN: Contains all nine Essential Amino Acids, not to mention a host of Branched Chain Amino Acids (BCAA's). One of the very few plant based proteins that can make such claims.
3. NO MORE PROTEIN FARTS!: Anyone who has ever used Whey protein will know what i'm talking about. Since Hemp protein is plant based you don't get the same bloat as you do from whey isolate which is the protein isolated from cows milk.
4. GREEN SUPER-FOOD BENEFITS: Packed with chlorophyll, anti-oxidants, vitamins, minerals, and a high fiber content ~8g fiber per 30g serving
5. OMEGA-3 & 6 FATTY ACIDS: Hemp contains a great deal of these amazing fatty acids in a beneficial ratio of 3:1 . This ratio has been proven to give the most bang for your buck.
6. EARTH FRIENDLY: An easily grown crop which requires far fewer resources for it's production compared to Whey. Plus a whole host of other uses such as paper and fabric.
ARE THERE ANY DISADVANTAGES?
Hemp protein is fast becoming one of the most popular supplements but it does have a few things still keeping it from becoming the top dog on the protein shelf.
1. COST: Hemp protein is almost exclusively grown and transported by our brothers up north. Only recently has President Obama signed a bill that allows for some farmers to grow this crop in the US. Because of this the typical cost per gram of protein is higher (in some cases almost double)
- Whey Protein: ~ 1 - 3 cents per gram
- Hemp Protein: ~3 - 6 cents per gram
2. FLAVOR: As most of you may know Whey proteins can be found in almost every imaginable flavor. This allows the user to cater to many different types of shakes and meals using the protein. Hemp protein on the other hand does traditionally have an "Earthy" flavor (this does go with most smoothies very well). Most Hemp proteins you will see in the store are essentially the ground seeds and are not flavored like most Whey's. However with it's new found popularity many companies are stepping up their flavor game and making Hemp as good or better than it's competitors.
Personally I use and recommend Hemp FORCE by ONNIT Labs as this is the best performing and tasting I have found. I also really believe in all their products. They are always posting research studies with their products and they offer a terrific refund policy in case you are satisfied.
AREN'T PLANT BASED PROTEINS FOR GIRLS?
Don't be a gym bro. If you think this I am sure you think chest day is Monday-Friday as well. Hemp protein is perfect for everyone: mothers, hardcore bodybuilders, athletes, office jockeys, gym rats, everyone needs protein and everyone deserves the best.
SHOULD YOU TRY HEMP PROTEIN?
Are you a serious lifter who wants to try new things to up your game?
Have you decided to live a healthier lifestyle?
Are you tired of embarrassing gas and bloating?
Would you like to get more nutrition from fewer supplements?
You want to maximize your physical well-being.
If you have any of these thoughts or questions you should give Hemp protein a shot. Push that old Whey off the top of your refrigerator and make "Whey" for the new top dog...HEMP!
You can also check out Amazon, local grocery stores, and supplement stores for some other Hemp options. Most stores nowadays will carry at least brand.
And of course if you want to try out the absolute best tasting (IMO) Hemp protein please check out Hemp Force Choco Maca, they also have a Vanilla-Acai which goes well with almost any smoothie.
Now get out there and maximize your potential!
Thanks for reading. Stay tuned for more.
-Tony D.