This week I tried Hemp seed Protein powder for the first time. I made a smoothie of the hemp, strawberries and coconut milk, it was delicious. 

Hemp has been eaten for thousands of years in Asia and North Africa as it was proven to be a a highly nutritious food. . It is only the connection of the hemp plant to it's cousin the cannabis plant that has stopped it being a popular health food in the West. Thankfully, people are becoming more educated about the two different species and the value of hemp is now highly appreciated.

The Protein Powder is obtained by cold milling hemp seeds into powder form. It has a high protein content which contains many amino acids, including the 8 essential fatty acids (E.F.A.'s) which our bodies are unable to manufacture and are required for many body processes including muscle repair and growth. The E.F.A.'s in hemp also provide a perfect balance of omega_3 and omega_6  fatty acids which are required for optimum health.

Hemp protein, which is said to be the most digestible form of protein,  is made up of the globular protein edestin and albumin. Their properties make it easy to digest and help maintain a healthy immune system. Many protein sources like dairy, soy and peanuts contain allegens, whereas Hemp Seed Protein does not. It is gluten free and contains fewer oligosaccharides than beans. Oligosaccharides can cause gas and bloating. 

The powder is also a high fibre source as well as a source of vitamins C and E, calcium, copper, zinc, iron, phosphorus, magnesium, and manganese. A great protein source for any Vegan, vegetarian, and anyone with food allergies. Plus many sportsmen and women are finding it wonderful pick-me-up. There are many ways to enjoy it. Added to smoothies, porridge, and spreads. Added to muffins, breads and dehydrated snacks. Some even swear it is great added to their morning coffee.

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Hemp High Protein Smoothie 

From the Hemp Protein Guide     

1/4 cup almonds

1/2 cup raisins

1 banana cut into chucks

1-2 Scoops Hemp Protein powder

1 cup of soy milk

1/2 cup ice cubes

Blend the almonds, raisins, banana, hemp protein powder, soy milk, and ice cubes until a smooth texture is formed. Make sure to blend well unless you like almond chunks! Lots of protein in here along with healthy fats. Add more raisins for extra sweetness. Makes one serving.

From Manitoba Harvest     

2 scoops hemp protein powder

1 1/2 cups unsweeted organic applesauce

1 tbsp ground flax seeds

2 tbsps fresh squeezed lemon juice

pinch of ground cinnamon

pinch of ground ginger

Mix it all in your favorite bowl, and enjoy. In winter, warm the applesauce for a more comforting morning food.

From Bob's Red Mill Natural Foods    

2 cups frozen blueberries 

1 1/2 cups milk (soy, rice, hemp) 

1/4 cup hemp protein powder 

1 banana 

Blend on medium high speed until smooth. Use any type of berries in the smoothie for variety including blackberries, strawberries, raspberries and more. Makes 2 servings.

From Hemp Natural   

5 tbsps natural peanut butter (chunky or smooth) 

100g / 3 1/2ozs dry oat meal 

100g / 3 1/2ozs oat flour (double the dry oats if you do not have oat flour) 

6 scoops hemp protein powder

1 tsp vanilla essence 

125ml / 1/2cup milk (soy, almond or hemp) 

125ml / 1/2cup water 

Spray an 20cm/20cm baking dish with oil. Combine dry ingredients in a medium size bowl and mix well. Add peanut butter and mix - the mixture will be crumbly and dry. Add water and vanilla. Spread dough into pan using a clean wooden spoon or spatula that has been sprayed with non-stick cooking spray. Refrigerate a few hours (or freeze for an hour) and cut into 9 squares. Store in covered container between sheets of wax paper. Keep refrigerated.