Since hemp protein has entered the arena of dietary supplements it has been argued that it is superior to some other forms of natural protein. Compared to soy and whey protein the hemp protein appears to be a better choice all around, for nutrition and for lack of side effects. Health enthusiasts and body builders claim that hemp protein in any form is a good choice. It should be noted here that industrial hemp and hemp for consumption as a dietary supplement is not the same strain of hemp (cannabis) that produces a psychoactive effect. That hemp is from the female plant while this is from the male plant. This type of hemp has a tiny amount of THC compared to marijuana.

Hemp is a nutritionally full food choice. It contains protein and is loaded with fiber. It has vitamin E, phytosterols, carbohydrates and some trace minerals. Edistine is known to boost the immune system and help with digestion. Hemp protein is considered to be a “complete protein” and contains all 8 essential amino acids. (the ones that the human body does not produce) Another area of interest for hemp enthusiasts is its high concentration of EFAs, or essential fatty acids. This includes important omega-3 and -6 in a recommended ratio of 1:3, plus gamma-linolenic and stearidonic polyunsaturated acids.

Hemp oil is a very unsaturated oil and not suitable for frying due to a low smoke point. It is used for certain skin conditions like eczema. In addition to use for oil, hemp seeds can be eaten or sprouted and then ground into powder. There are hemp nut butter and ice cream products. Many add hemp to cereal, bread, waffles or other foods and drinks.

Hemp protein powder is sometimes preferred over whey protein. Body builders use whey protein to bulk up but the product can bulk up inside the digestive track which is not what is wanted. Soy protein can cause some allergies and contains inhibitors that block absorption of protein. Other problems with consuming soy protein include stomach upset and gas. It should be noted, that if you are into body building, then it can become expensive, to get the same amount of protein with hemp protein supplements, than with whey products. Whey supplements often comes extremely cheap, but the quality is often very low.

There are many other health benefits attributed to consumption of industrial hemp protein. This includes the reduction of cardiovascular disease and some cancers to improvements with problems like bipolar disease and rheumatoid arthritis. Hemp contains no gluten and requires no pesticides or herbicides for growth.

Industrial hemp has been used by humans for about 7000 years. Hemp protein should be used quickly and stored in a cool area. It has other uses for fabric and rope. It is an extremely strong and fast growing plant that produces hundreds times more fiber than cotton or flax when grown on the same land. Hemp protein does not require processing with hexane as does soy protein. It is a naturally occurring plant that has not been genetically altered.

Organic hemp protein is ideal for use by the vegan population and it is a kosher food. Hemp has no sugar and no trans-fat. Hemp protein apparently does not cause allergies and it is a good source of important minerals including calcium and iron.

In spite of its reputation, the hemp plant is an excellent source of many helpful as well as healthy products. Because its cannabis cousin has been long known for its recreational drug uses, industrial hemp has gotten a bad name. This versatile plant has many uses however, and its seeds are considered one of the most nutritionally complete foods in the world. Hemp seeds are used in a wide variety of food products, including grain and meal, milk and tea. Some manufactured foods include cereals, tofu and nut butters. However, it is the hemp seed oil that is credited with both versatility and high levels of nutrition.

Hemp seed oil is produced by pressing the seeds of the plant and contains none of the psychoactive chemicals associated with the hemp plant. Unrefined hemp seed oil can vary in shades of darkness and usually has a nutty flavor. Over the years, many advocates have come forward to comment on the benefits of consuming hemp seed oil. Because hemp seeds contain both essential amino acids as well as essential fatty acids, many believe drinking hemp seed oil could make a difference in decreasing inflammatory disease as well as heart disease.

While unrefined hemp seed oil remains highly versatile as a food source, refined oil has many uses as well. With most of its vitamins and other nutrients removed in the refining process, the oil is used various industries. Some products include paints, plastics and lubricants. Refined hemp seed oil is also widely used in the cosmetics industry, mainly in the production of shampoos and soaps as well as detergents. Another use being studied is a bio diesel fuel, with high hopes for its utilization. Manufacturers continue to stress that any possible THC is thoroughly removed during the refining process, and since hemp seeds have little to none of this chemical, there is no chance of it being present in manufactured products.

The hemp plant has so many versatile uses. As more people turn to natural super foods for their nutrition, hemp seed oil continues to see a rise in popularity. Whether using it in its unrefined state as a source of healthy vitamins and essential amino and fatty acids, or using the many products that can be made in its refined state, hemp seed oil is fast overcoming its earlier reputation to become one of the new super foods of this century.

Product description:

“Living Harvest’s Hemp Protein is the perfect high-performance plant-based whole food. Our Hemp Protein is 100% certified organic, raw, gluten-free, and vegan. It contains all 10 Essential Amino Acids, with 45%-50% protein per serving, a well-balanced ratio of Omega 3 and Omega 6 Essential Fatty Acids, and GLA. Living Harvest was the first to bring an organic Hemp Protein to market in 2002, with our cold, vacuum-milled processing. A rich, raw, nutty taste using only the finest, purest hemp seeds around. To use, mix two scoops or more with fresh juices or your favorite smoothie or shake recipe, for a convenient meal. Also great in soups, cereals or any of your favorite recipes.”

Get Living Harvest Hemp Protein at Amazon.com

Looking at the Amazon consumer reviews, we can see, that the average review score is a, very nice, 4 out of 5 stars, based on 14 reviews. A good score, but the low amount of reviews, makes it a little harder to draw any absolute conclusion. But hey, at least it’s a good score The general concensus on this products seems to be, that it has a decent taste and is good for homemade shakes. The negative opinions are all about the “gritty” texture of the powder and the unappealing green color. Let’s look at some of the reviews, from costumers, on Amazon.com.

Snippets from positive reviews…

“I like it in banana-yogurt based smoothies. Also makes a great smoothie with a cup of non-fat milk, 1T peanut butter, 1 frozen banana and a couple of ice cubes.” 4 out of 5 stars

“I can see why people havent been able to tolerate this powder…they are trying to mix it with water or juice. I’ve never known a protein powder that could be choked down that way! I think the perfect complement is to mix it with Living Harvest’s own Chocolate Hemp Milk!” 5 out of 5 stars

“I wanted to have a healthy morning shake so looked a bit further and found the Hemp Protein powder at the Vitamin Shop and thought I’d give it a go. It is WONDERFUL! I drink this every morning with Green Super Food, Hemp Milk, Blueberries & honey. It has really changed my life. I have a ton of energy and don’t feel hungry until more than an hour after my usual breakfast.” 5 out of 5 stars

Snippets from not-so-positive reviews…

“This definitely has to be mixed with something to make it tolerable, and I think it may take a few tries to get used to it. I mix it with protein shakes; the flavors of the protein shakes fortunately dominate vs. the taste of the hemp powder.” 3 out of 5 stars

“I’m all for organic products and the many uses of hemp, but can’t someone make a hemp protein powder that you’d want to drink? First of all, this powder is green. Second of all, it tastes horrible. I added it to different kinds of juice to try to get the best flavor results. After less than a week, I can no longer bring myself to drink it.” 1 out of 5 stars

Nutiva Organic Hemp Protein + Fiber

Product description:

“Nutiva now has two healthy, cold-milled, organic hemp protein offerings. Our original award-winning hemp protein + fiber contain 37% protein, 43% fiber and 10% fat. The hemp protein + fiber are ideal for people looking to increase their overall fiber consumption. Our latest offering — hemp protein 50% contains 50% protein, 20% fiber and 11% fat. Our Hemp Protein 50% is fantastic for athletes and smoothie-lovers who want higher protein and superior flavor. We simply sift out more of the fiber to boost the protein content to 50%, yielding a sweet, smooth, and light powder. It’s so delicious many of our customers report they love to eat it off the spoon.”

You can buy this product on Amazon, through this link

Looking at Amazon.com, this organic hemp protein powder, is rated a pretty nice, 4 out of 5 stars, based on 41 user reviews. Nutiva is the best selling brand and the large amount of reviews is a good quality indication. Most of the postive reviews mentions how they feel energized and healthy after using this product.  Also mentioned, is how it can be used to make a healthy protein shake.

Most of the negative comments are about the texture and taste, of the protein powder. This seems to be the main problem area for any hemp protein product. Some people simply have a hard time getting used to it. of Also mentioned, in a couple of the comments, are the magnesium in the product, which works as a laxative. Apparently, this has resulted in an upset stomach, for some of the costumers.

If you’re considering trying out Nutiva Organic Protein, it would be a good idea to read some of the many reviews first. They can be found on the Nutiva Organic Hemp Protein Amazon page.

snippets from positive reviews…

“Have you ever described a food as tasting “healthy” when you mean it tastes so bad it must be good for you? Fear not! It is pleasantly adaptable to use with any fruit on hand. I honestly will say, though, that it does have an earthy quality. It may take the uninitiated some getting acquainted with–just a little! If trying for the first time, I heartily recommend trying the Hemp Goddess Supreme recipe on the jar’s label. Surprisingly palatable!” 5 out of 5 stars.

“I use this product everyday and I have continued to buy it since I discovered it. I put it with rice milk, or with fruit in a smoothie, etc. If you just put it in water and drink it, then yes it is grainy. I don’t do that and don’t recommend such. It really helps to balance the blood sugar and keep the body happy. It is satisfying in keeping the appetite down.” 5 out of 5 stars.

“This is a very good to supplement anyone’s protein in their diet. I blands well with other food, has a pleasant, nutty flavor. A good value for the price.” 5 out of 5 stars.

snippets from negative reviews…

“the fiber content of this “powder” is amazing but the the taste and texture are almost unbearable. while hemp is not going to taste as good (by good taste-i mean an absence of taste) as soy or whey, it should at least be better than this.” 2 out of 5 stars.

“I bought this brand because the normal brand I buy is out of stock on amazon. This brand is not as fine a powder and so it does not stir into liquid. As soon as you stop stirring or blending it all drops to the bottom. Then when you drink it, the last gulp is all ’sand’ that gets stuck in your teeth. So, now you have to brush your teeth or walk around with black stuff stuck to them. There are other brands with as much fiber, more protein and mix right up in liquid.” 1 out of 5 stars.

“I had to switch from this Nutiva product to another hemp product (Manitoba Harvest which I buy at Whole Foods) because this product has way too much magnesium in it (48%). Magnesium works like a laxative. That is great if you need that kind of help, but if you don’t, it can upset your stomach or at least that has been my experience with it. I won’t buy anymore of this one.” 2 out of 5 stars.

Nutiva Organic Hemp Seed Oil

product description:

“Delicious nutty flavor. Add to your favorite recipes. Rich in Omega-3. USDA organic. A vegetable source closest to fish oil. Omegas per tbsp: 7 g Omega-6 LA, 2.5 g Omega-3 ALA, 0.5 g Omega-6 GLA, 0.25 Omega-3 SDA. Optimal EFA balance. Enjoy our delicious, unrefined, certified organic Canadian hemp oil, rich in vitamin E as well as Omega-3 – the good fat doctors recommend for optimal health. Hemp oil has nature’s ideal 4-1 Omega-6 to -3 ratio. For great nutrition, alternate between hemp and flax oils. Unlike flax, hemp contains valuable Super Omega-3 (SDA) and Super Omega-6 (GLA), which help our bodies metabolize fat, especially vital combat the effects of stress, aging, and environmental toxins. Certified organic by QAI. Product of Canada.”

This hemp oil  can be purchased on Amazon.com

Reviews from Amazon show us, that this hemp seed oil product, scores a great 4½ out of 5 stars average. Even though 10 reviews aren’t really that much, it still shows us, that people, overall, are very satisfied with this particular hemp oil. People seem to like its nutty flavour, and several also mention how it gives them a “boost” of energy, when used on a daily basis. This product has only one negative review, and the reviewer complains about the taste. Lets take a look at some costumer reviews from Amazon.com:

Snippets from positive reviews:

“I began using this product and another (Harmonic Innerprizes LifeSource Supersprouts powder) at the same time. I put both products in a fruit smoothie every morning as my breakfast. I don’t know if it’s one or the other, or a combination of both products, but since I’ve started this routine, I finally have the energy to get through the full day!” 5 out of 5 stars

“I use this Organic Cold-Pressed hemp oil instead of olive oil in recipes. It tastes great, has all those important omega-3 fatty acids and wasn’t heat treated, which is important for all of us following a raw lifestyle. I also buy the bags of hemp seeds to add to my salads and smoothies.” 5 out of 5 stars

Snippets from negative reviews:

“It tastes nasty and is unpalatable. Neither my husband nor I can tolerate it. I can’t even mask the taste in a smoothie, which was my original intent. This hemp oil was a waste of my money and I’m disappointed and upset that I have to eat the cost of two bottles.” 1 out of 5 stars

Product description:

“Raw Protein Power. Exceptional protein and high fibre to achieve and maintain optimal weight, while imparting strength, endurance well-being. (These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease). Benefits (These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease). Very low net carbs; 50% Raw, vegetarian protein; Excellent amino acid structure; Gluten-Free; Processed at very low temperatures, Naturally derived; High fibre for regularity; No cholesterol. Product of Canada.”

Buy Ruth’s Organic Hemp Protein cheap from Amazon

If we take a look at Amazon.com, we can see that this product has 4½ out of 5 stars, based on 8 user reviews. This a pretty low number of reviews, but at least we know, that the few who wrote reviews, are generally very happy with the product. Here are some snippets, from the reviews. It is worth mentioning, that only the texture and taste, are recieving negative words, which is very normal, when dealing with hemp protein powder.

Snippets from positive reviews…

“I chose this over whey and soy and have been super satisfied with the product. Buying it in bulk makes sense if you use it daily like I have. Give it a try! Great in smoothies.” 5 out of 5 stars.

“This stuff is good, great by itself, or with smoothies. Recommended over the other brands.” 5 out of 5 stars

Snippets from not-so-positive reviews…

“I’m sure this is fantastic protein powder, but I simply cannot find anything that I enjoy the overpowering flavor in, including multigrain bread or vegetable juice smoothies. I love Ruth’s other products, though, so I wonder why I have such a bad reaction to the ground seeds.” 3 out of 5 stars