Why Switch to Hemp Protein?
Protein seems to be a point of fixation for many, especially those involved in active lifestyles, and fitness. Eating a balanced diet of whole foods helps prevent protein deficiency, however individual needs vary and some need to have a higher protein intake based on their diet, activity level, age, etc.
Proteins are the building blocks of muscles, and having adequate protein intake is essential when involved in physical activity, trying to gain muscle, and to avoid muscle loss during weight loss.
Adequate protein intake also supports a healthy metabolism and fat burning, as well as helping the body repair itself after injury.
Due to these benefits and many others, many people turn to protein supplements to increase their daily protein intake, the most popular of protein supplements? Whey protein powders.
What's the issue with whey?
Whey is very popular because it is a cheap, source of complete protein, and while it is an easy way for people to increase their daily protein intake, there are a number of issues surrounding frequent use of whey.
Whey is a byproduct of cheese production, a liquid that separates from milk during cheese-making. This liquid then heavily processed and spray-dried into a concentrate, isolate, or hydrosolate powder.
Aside from the numerous ethical, and environmental issues associated with the commercial dairy industry, there are some issues to be aware of when consuming whey protein, most of which involve digestion.
Intestinal toxemia is a digestive issue that can have many causes, and high intake of whey protein can be a contributing factor. Whey protein contains no fiber, and fiber provides the bulk necessary to keep things moving consistently through the intestinal tract. Whey protein is has no live enzymes present to digest it, allowing for the perfect bacterial base to thrive in. Whey is also acidic, throwing off the intestinal pH balance to an environment that favours unfriendly bacteria and leads to toxemia. Additionally whey protein has a tendency stick to the intestinal tract, which with high regular use can actually inhibit protein absorption.
In addition to the aforementioned gut health issues, the main carb in whey is lactose, making it unsuitable for those with lactose intolerance (up to 75% of people worldwide). While people with lactose intolerance may be able to consume a whey isolate or hydrosolate, those products are even more processed than a whey concentrate, and contain even fewer beneficial minerals, and come with their own range of digestive concerns.
Most protein powders (whey and otherwise) are often heavily processed, containing harmful GMO's, synthetic toxins like aspartame, saccharin, and 'artificial flavours' (which could refer to a number of chemical additives).
Why go with Together Hemp?
Hemp is often touted as the king of plant proteins, because it is a complete protein (with significant amounts of the essential fatty acids needed by the body), with higher bioavailability than soy, or pea proteins, containing a 'globular protein' an amino acid profile not unlike egg whites.
Our hemp protein powders are a whole, 'live' food, rather than a heavily processed supplement. Made from whole Ontario grown hemp seeds, our hemp protein powder under goes minimal processing, free of hexane, to ensure there is no denaturing of protein, and that there are no harmful additives introduced into your diet.
Our hemp protein powders also will support gut-health and digestion, as they are a great source of fibres, antioxidants and minerals, and also are a source of balanced omega 3&6 fatty acids which help with inflammation, brain, and heart health.
Our hemp protein powders are grown without harmful pesticides or herbicides, are completely vegan, and grown with green agricultural practices.
For those making the switch from whey to hemp protein powder, the fibre content which will ultimately aid in healthy digestion, may cause gas or bloating at first, if too much is consumed too quickly.
While hemp proteins are generally safe for those pregnant or breastfeeding, as well as those with tree-nut allergies, we recommend consulting with a health professional prior to adding hemp protein powder to your diet.
Try our Natural Hemp Protein Powder, and our Cacao Hemp Protein Powders today!