Hemp protein: Benefits, side effects and comparison of hemp vs. whey

• What is hemp protein?
• • Nutritional profile of hemp protein
  • Why is hemp protein so easily digestible?
• Benefits of hemp protein
• Hemp vs. whey protein: Clear comparison in a table
• Conclusion
• FAQ

What is hemp protein?

Hemp protein is a plant-based protein powder made from hemp seeds (Cannabis sativa). It retains the best of nature, undergoes minimal processing, is gently pressed and ground into a fine powder. As a result, it retains many of the valuable nutrients from the original seeds.

Hemp protein is essentially produced by mechanically pressing oil from the seeds and then grinding the defatted hemp meal into a fine powder.

Hemp protein content

✔️ Up to 50% high-quality plant protein

• Depending on the degree of filtration, hemp protein contains approximately 40-50% complete protein, meaning it contains all essential amino acids.

✔️ Nutritious serving in each dose (~30 g)

One serving contains approximately:

• 12–15 g of protein
• 5–12 g of carbohydrates (mostly fibre)
• 3–6 g of healthy fats

✔️ Natural source of micronutrients

• 20–30% of the recommended daily intake of iron
• Approximately 15% of the daily calcium requirement
• Also contains magnesium, zinc, copper and potassium

✔️ Antioxidants and bioactive substances

• Hemp protein is rich in natural antioxidants, such as lignanamides, which help protect cells from oxidative stress.

Why is hemp protein so easy to digest?

Hemp protein is 90–98% digestible, so the body utilises almost all of it. It contains two super proteins, edestin and albumin:

• Up to 60-80% edestin, which is extremely easy for the body to digest.
• The rest is albumin, which is light and quickly absorbed.

Both are globular proteins, which are easily absorbed by the body.

Hemp proteins do not cause bloating like some whey proteins and do not contain lactose. In addition, they do not contain any anti-nutritional substances that would interfere with the absorption of nutrients.

One serving contains approximately 8–11 g of fibre, which is about one-third of the recommended daily intake.

• Soluble fibre supports intestinal microflora.
• Insoluble fibre contributes to regular digestion and a feeling of fullness.

Benefits of hemp protein

Hemp protein offers many nutritional and health benefits that make it a great alternative to common protein supplements. See for yourself why you'll love it too 👇:

• Complete protein for the body: It contains all 9 essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. It is therefore comparable to egg white or whey.

• Rich amino acid profile: Arginine (supports heart health), cysteine and methionine (contain sulphur and aid cell regeneration) and other important amino acids that support muscle growth and recovery. The total proportion of essential amino acids in hemp protein isolate is even higher than in soy isolate.

• Rich source of fibre: One serving (approx. 4 tablespoons) contains approximately 10 g of fibre, which is about 30% of the recommended daily intake. Incidentally, compared to other protein powders, this is a substantial amount.

• Supports digestion and regularity: Fibre is essential for healthy digestion, contributes to regularity and supports a balanced intestinal environment.

• Helps regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels: It helps maintain stable blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

• Keeps you feeling full for longer: Thanks to its higher fibre content, hemp protein keeps you feeling full for longer, which is useful when dieting or when you want to control your appetite.

• Healthy fats for body and mind: Hemp protein contains a small amount of hemp oil rich in essential omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in a balanced ratio. These fats support the heart, immunity, digestion and hormonal balance. It also contains GLA, a rare omega-6 acid with anti-inflammatory effects.

• Top-notch iron: One serving covers up to 25% of your daily iron requirement, which is essential for red blood cell production and energy.

• Other important minerals in amounts that common whey proteins often do not contain: Magnesium (for nerves and muscles), zinc (immune support), manganese, copper and potassium (for metabolism and balance).

• Suitable for vegans and allergy sufferers: Hemp protein is 100% plant-based, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians as a complete alternative to animal proteins.

• Does not contain any common allergens: Allergies to hemp seeds are very rare. In addition, allergenic components are removed during processing into protein. Compared to soy, hemp is also a less common allergen. Therefore, hemp protein is considered a hypoallergenic food supplement.

• Natural and pure product: It contains no added chemicals, sweeteners or fillers (if you buy pure hemp powder). It has a slightly nutty, earthy taste, which many people enjoy in smoothies or porridge.

Hemp vs. whey protein: A clear comparison in a table

Are you hesitating between plant-based and animal-based protein? 🤔 Hemp protein is a popular choice among plant-based alternatives, while whey is a classic among animal-based sources.

Each has different nutritional properties, origins and processing methods. To make your decision easier, we have prepared a handy table👇 .