Hemp and Hemp Protein
Hemp protein is so incredibly good for you that it's hard to know where to start in describing all its benefits! But I'll give it my best shot!
Hemp protein, from hemp seeds, is one of the best vegan sources of protein. It is considered a complete plant protein because it contains all 20 amino acids, eight of which are essential for adult human health. In addition, hemp contains two amino acids that are critical for children's health.
In this wonder-food we also find the perfect balance (3:1) of Omega 6 to Omega 3 fatty acids, which are considered essential for optimal health, not to mention that they help to fight cholesterol.
And Industrial Hemp grows very easily without the use of pesticides, so you don't have to worry about any chemical unpleasantness in your food!
Hemp is now available in a variety of different forms. You can use the protein powder in smoothies and drinks, or mixed into cereal.
Hemp seeds, which are the best form to consume hemp, can be added to cereals and salads, or mixed with other yummy munchies to make granola! Hemp seed flour is great for making vegan muffins, cakes and cookies, or for making your own breads or pastas. Hemp seed nut butter is a great spread that can be used in place of peanut or other nut butters.
But what about soy? Well, soy has some major problems. Although it has been marketed as a fabulous alternative to animal protein, processed soy, in the form of tofu, soy milk and soy infant formula, is actually bad for you! Click here to learn more about the dangers of soy.
By the way, I should mention that while hemp shares a botanical relationship with its infamous cousin, it is NOT the same thing! Industrial hemp is grown specifically for functional uses and boy are there a lot of those!
Here's just a short list of hemp's many uses:
- Food
- Clothing
- Rope
- Car parts
- Fuel
- Paper
As I said, that's just a short list. But you can clearly see that as a vegan, you are contributing to a greener environment by using hemp products!
For more information about hemp clothing check out the Vegan Clothing page. And for the best hemp seed products for dietary use, check out the items below - They are some of my favorite and most highly recommended sources of hemp protein!
| Nutiva organic shelled hemp seed comes in a bulk package of 3 lbs, which is less expensive than buying at the store. You can use hemp seeds on salads, on cereals, or mixed with granola.
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Nutiva's hemp seed bars also contain flax, sunflower and pumpkin seeds. I must caution you that these bars are actually not vegan because they contain honey, but they make a quick and nutritious snack.
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Nutiva organic hemp protein and fiber powder is a much better buy in this 3 pound bag. It lasts for ages in the fridge and you can use it in smoothies for a protein and fiber boost!
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| A great nut-butter substitute, hemp seed butter can be used as a spread, a base for dips, or in smoothies for added protein. Try it in place of hummus on rice cakes.
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Looking for creative ways to use raw hemp? Kristen Suzanne's Ultimate Raw Hemp Recipess has some great ideas for soups, salads, breads and spreads as well as a couple of nice dessert recipes!
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Hemp oil is great in raw recipes as a substitute for olive oil. Nutiva's hemp seed oil is cold-pressed so it has never been heated or cooked. Try it in salads or in the Walnut-Tomato Paté!
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