Why is Plant-based protein so good for us?
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BOOST YOUR DAILY PROTEIN INTAKE WITH HEMP
What is protein, why do we need it and why is hemp such a good source?
Adequate protein intake is an essential part of any healthy diet. Protein is broken down into amino acids which the body uses for many things, particularly cell growth and repair. Our cells and tissues are made from the protein we eat. Hemp is an excellent source of protein, in terms of the amount and quality it provides. It is also far less damaging to the planet in contrast to many other protein sources, as it is sustainably grown and produces very little waste.
Before we get into why hemp is such a good protein source, let’s take a closer look at protein as a whole, the different types, what is considered an optimal intake and what we actually need it for.
What are the different types of protein?
Amino acids are organic compounds that form the building blocks of larger protein molecules. There are 20 different types, 11 of which can be synthesised by the body. The remaining 9 are known as essential amino acids, which means they must be obtained from food as the body is unable to make them on its own. Animal foods and a small number of plant foods contain all of the essential amino acids and are therefore known as complete proteins. Other plant foods which lack one or more of the essential amino acids are known as incomplete proteins. However, this does not mean that these foods are unhealthy, or that a plant-based diet is automatically lacking in protein, in fact, research suggests that there are many health benefits to reducing the number of animal products in the diet and focusing more on plant sources. It is possible to get adequate protein, including all of the essential amino acids, by eating a variety of plant proteins over the course of a day. Adding hemp seeds to meals as a sprinkle or blending them up into sauces and dips is a great way to boost their protein content, whilst providing other nutrients such as essential fatty acids, vitamin E, zinc and more.Why do we need to eat enough protein every day?
We need to eat enough protein every day to give the body what it needs to function optimally. Protein is needed to build, sustain and repair each and every one of the trillions of cells throughout the body and help them carry out their different functions, from brain and heart cells to the cells lining the walls of the digestive system, those involved in the break down of food and those responsible for identifying potential threats to our homeostasis (the state of internal balance resulting in good health) and mounting an appropriate immune response. Protein is required to synthesise and regulate hormones, transport blood around the body, regulate immune function, support healthy digestion and much more. Including adequate protein in your diet can also be helpful in weight management, reducing cravings, stabilising moods, improving focus, assisting with muscle recovery and more.
How much protein do we need?
Protein requirements for optimal health vary from person to person based on age, health, gender, physical activity level, underlying health conditions and other idiosyncratic (individual) factors. Protein requirements vary between 0.8g per kg of body weight and 1.5g per kg of body weight. It is best to get your protein from a variety of sources and to spread it out across the day, including it with every meal and snack. Doing it in this way ensures you provide your body with all of the essential amino acids over the course of the day.
Why is hemp such a good source of protein?
Hemp seeds are an excellent source of protein to include on a regular basis as more than 25% of their total calories are from high-quality protein. A 30g serving, which is just 3 tablespoons, provides around 9g of protein, along with other nutrients that are vital for optimal health including essential fatty acids, vitamin E and minerals such as calcium, iron, zinc, magnesium, sulphur, phosphorous and potassium. Additionally, the types of proteins found in hemp such as albumin and edestin are highly-digestible in comparison to some other plant-based proteins, meaning they can be broken down quickly and used efficiently by the body. Hemp also contains both soluble and insoluble fibre which not only supports healthy digestion but slows down digestive processes enabling more of the protein it contains to be fully absorbed.
How to incorporate hemp seeds to increase protein intake:
Add to smoothies
Sprinkle on porridge and overnight oats
Use in combination with other seeds and nuts in place of oats for a high-protein porridge alternative
Replace other flours in baking
Blend up into protein balls and raw treats
Sprinkle over salads and roasted vegetables
Blend up into dips and dressings
View Recipes Page
Takeaways
Protein forms the building blocks of our bodies and the amount we consume (or fail to consume) has a profound effect on our physical and mental health. Hemp has an impressive amino acid profile and is an excellent source of highly-digestible high-quality protein, as well as many other key nutrients A few tablespoons go a long way and hemp seeds can be added to sweet and savoury dishes to supercharge their protein content and provide a delicious hit of earthy, seedy, creamy, protein-rich goodness Hemp seeds and hemp products should be consumed alongside other high-quality protein sources as part of a healthy, balanced diet, to ensure the body gets all the amino acids it needs as well as a wide range of other nutrients required for optimal health.Hemp North:
A big thank you to Hannah for explaining the importance of protein in our diet.
Be sure to Check Out Her Other Posts on other benefits of Hemp Hearts and Hemp Oil.
Also please do check out all our Amazing Recipes Here – Hannah also is adding some great dishes to our list.
Why not choose a Pouch of Hemp Hearts if you have read this far.
Any questions on this topic don’t hesitate to get in contact with Hannah Here.
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Hannah
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Why is Plant-based protein so good for us?
What is protein, why do we need it and why is hemp such a good source?
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