HEMP PROTEIN POWDER: A COMPLETE VEGAN SUPPLEMENT
The vegan term is seen in a lot of common discussions nowadays. It is often confused as vegetarian, but it is different from vegetarian and even non-vegetarian sections. Though the vegan society was set up in 1944, its history goes back to much earlier. In ancient times, animal-derived products such as meat, eggs, and dairy were stopped by many people for consumption. There have been pieces of evidence for the same in ancient civilisations. But recently, people have gone for an extreme form of veganism and refrained from using any animal products. These changes have been all across the world. With a long and strong tradition of vegetarianism, India is now moving towards plant-based foods. However, India is one of the leading exporters of dairy products, and therefore, the increasing trend of veganism may have adverse impacts on India's dairy sector.
Dairy products are a part of every household in India. But now we can considerably see the changes of Indians moving towards veganism too. People who follow up a vegan lifestyle, that is, following a plant-based diet and refraining from using animal products, are mainly because of three given reasons:-
1- Cruelty on animals
2- Environmental impact
3- Positive Impact on health.
Many celebrities are following veganism now. Social media has put a lot of attention towards veganism by showing animal cruelty videos. As the vegan lifestyle is getting popular, more and more people are getting motivated to follow it. Food companies are responding positively to the changing food preferences of people. Therefore, they are shifting towards making foods to meet the vegan requirements.
According to research, a vegan diet could be superior to other types of food in terms of nutrition and health. But, on the other hand, it also shows deficiencies of some minerals, vitamin b12, and protein.
Researchers suggest that plant-based food has more health benefits as compared to animal-based food products. This is because plant-based foods contain antioxidants, phytonutrients and nitrates. In addition, there's an abundant protein in plant products.
Therefore, Vegan food is also known to reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, it also reduces obesity and cholesterol, which reduces the risk of heart-related diseases. Vegans don't use any products made out of animal parts. So they boycott all animal products like dairy, eggs, meat, fish, and even honey. And also ghee, butter and cheese. So to replace these boycotted products, many different foods have come up, but are they able to provide complete nutrition? So from where do the vegans get their protein? Why is protein so essential for the body? Let's read further to get answers to these questions.
ARE THERE ANY VEGETARIAN VEGAN-FRIENDLY ALTERNATIVES?
Soy or pea protein is an excellent plant-based source of protein. However, since soy is a common allergen, soy protein may cause digestive distress. It is also highly refined, which makes it unhealthy to use for daily purposes. Egg-based protein powder can also give digestive upsets such as bloating. Brown rice protein is not a complete source of protein as it does not contain all the critical essential amino acids. In addition, rice has a high amount of carbs and less protein. So, it might not be easy to meet protein requirements through a rice protein powder. This leaves us with high-quality plant-based hemp protein powder. It's the best ultimate solution to boost your protein intake. Let's examine the facts about hemp protein powder and outline the amount you should be taking-
WHAT IS HEMP PROTEIN?
Hemp protein is derived from a Himalayan plant, hemp, which is a form of vegan protein. It is made by grinding cold-pressed hemp seeds into powder. It is hypoallergenic and suitable for people with dairy, gluten and soy allergies. Hemp protein powder is a whole source of protein that is a good source of healthy omega-3, vitamins, and minerals such as zinc, iron, and magnesium. It is also high in fibre. It is unsweetened,cold-pressed, and organic completely unprocessed, which makes it a great addition to your diet. These amino acids also help to regulate brain and nervous system functions.
HOW EFFECTIVE IS HEMP PROTEIN FOR VEGAN DIET?
The amino acids in hemp are mainly involved in muscle protein synthesis that is essential for muscle growth. It is the building block of protein, making it a complete source. It also helps to repair lean muscle tissues. Animal-based proteins such as Whey, by contrast, have higher levels of leucine, making them the first choice for bodybuilders. However, hemp protein powder is a plant-based protein source. It still has all the nutrients required to build and maintain muscles. It may be the right choice for you based on allergies, specific dietary needs, and lifestyle choices (like being a Vegan).
HOW MUCH PROTEIN DO I NEED TO TAKE?
Those looking to be a warrior or build muscles should consume between 1.5 to 2 grams of protein per kilogram of Body Weight Index daily. So, if you weigh 80kg, you should take in between 120 and 160 grams of protein daily. However, remember that this does not all need to come in a powder form. Eating lean meats, eggs, beans, cheese, and fish will contribute to your protein target. If you're a vegan, it will be difficult for you to complete your daily protein requirements. The choices you have are legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds. Mainly it would help if you focused on eating protein in every meal of the day. Despite that, your daily protein requirements still might be completed. The trick is to calculate roughly how much protein you eat daily and then supplement the amount you need to make up the hemp protein powder. To consume it, you can add the hemp protein powder to fruits, either water or milk, and blend for a healthy protein shake. It is a fact that shakes are more readily absorbed than heavier foods. It can be easier to digest for people with sensitive stomachs or digestive issues.
TAKEAWAY
As a high-protein source rich in antioxidants, minerals, fibre, and heart-healthy unsaturated fats, hemp protein powder prevents protein deficiency. So it works as a great protein supplement, especially for vegans. For vegans, consuming plant-based foods can meet their nutrition requirement to a point. But, it might get challenging to get a handful of protein in every vegan meal. Therefore, consuming hemp protein powder is a great way to increase your daily protein intake, prevent deficiency, and maintain the optimal functioning of your body.
A healthy lifestyle is something we refine over time, not overnight.