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Hemp Seed Protein Powder

Also known as: Hemp seed protein powder, Hemp protein, Cannabis sativa L. seed protein

Overview

Hemp seed protein powder is a plant-based protein supplement derived from the seeds of the Cannabis sativa L. plant after the oil has been extracted. It is recognized as a complete protein source, containing all nine essential amino acids, though it is comparatively lower in lysine than animal proteins. Beyond its protein content, it also provides dietary fiber, essential minerals, and healthy polyunsaturated fats (omega-3 and omega-6). Primarily used for nutritional support, muscle building, and general health, research is exploring its potential cardiovascular, metabolic, and anti-inflammatory benefits. While animal studies and clinical trial protocols show promise, comprehensive systematic reviews specifically on hemp seed protein powder as a dietary supplement in humans are still emerging.

Benefits

Hemp seed protein offers several evidence-based benefits. For cardiovascular health, a randomized controlled trial protocol is investigating if 50 g/day of hemp seed protein can lower blood pressure in hypertensive patients over 6 weeks, with preliminary evidence suggesting potential antihypertensive effects through angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibition. Metabolic benefits have been observed in animal studies, where hemp seed consumption improved intestinal barrier function and reduced pro-thrombotic and inflammatory markers like plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), which is associated with obesity and cardiovascular risk. Nutritionally, it provides a balanced amino acid profile, high fiber content, and heart-healthy polyunsaturated fats, supporting overall cardiovascular and cognitive health. Additionally, some murine model studies suggest anti-inflammatory potential by reducing inflammatory cytokine expression in adipose tissue, though human data are limited.

How it works

Hemp protein's efficacy stems from its unique composition. It contains easily digestible globular proteins, primarily edestin and albumin, which provide a complete amino acid profile essential for muscle repair and growth. Hydrolyzed hempseed peptides may act as angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, contributing to blood pressure reduction. Whole hemp seed intake has been shown to modulate the endocannabinoidome, influencing metabolic and inflammatory pathways, potentially preserving intestinal barrier integrity and reducing inflammation. Furthermore, the polyunsaturated fatty acids (omega-3 and omega-6) present in hemp protein powder contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects and offer cardiovascular protection.

Side effects

Hemp seed protein powder is generally considered safe with minimal adverse effects. The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, such as gas, bloating, or diarrhea, particularly if intake is rapidly increased due to its high fiber content. Allergic reactions to hemp are rare but possible in susceptible individuals. No significant drug interactions have been widely reported; however, caution is advised for individuals on antihypertensive medications due to the potential for additive blood pressure-lowering effects. Contraindications include known hemp allergies or medical conditions requiring a low-fiber diet. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult a healthcare provider before use. Hemp protein contains only trace amounts of THC, insufficient to cause psychoactive effects or positive drug tests.

Dosage

The optimal dosage of hemp seed protein powder varies based on individual protein needs and tolerance, typically ranging from 20-50 grams per day. Clinical trials investigating specific health benefits, such as blood pressure reduction, are testing doses of 45-50 grams per day. There is no established maximum safe dose, but high intakes may lead to gastrointestinal discomfort due to its fiber content. It can be consumed at any time of day, often mixed into shakes, smoothies, oatmeal, or baked goods, and is commonly used post-exercise or as a meal supplement. The powder form is standard, and its absorption is generally good, influenced by the food matrix it's consumed with. No specific cofactors are required for its efficacy, but a balanced diet is always recommended.

FAQs

Is hemp protein a complete protein?

Yes, hemp protein contains all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein, though it is comparatively lower in lysine than animal proteins.

Will hemp protein cause a positive drug test?

No, hemp protein contains only trace amounts of THC, which are insufficient to cause psychoactive effects or result in a positive drug test.

How does hemp protein compare to other plant proteins?

Hemp protein offers a balanced nutrient profile and fiber. However, its protein content per serving is generally lower than isolates like pea or soy protein.

How long does it take to see benefits from hemp protein?

Clinical effects, such as blood pressure reduction, may require several weeks of consistent use, with some trials observing effects after 6 weeks.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7181489/ – This source describes a randomized controlled trial protocol designed to assess the blood pressure-lowering effect of 50 g/day hemp seed protein compared to casein over 6 weeks in hypertensive patients. The study aims to determine if hemp protein can significantly reduce 24-hour systolic blood pressure, using a double-blind, crossover design with appropriate controls.
https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/immunology/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2022.882455/full – This animal study, conducted in a high-fat/high-sucrose diet model, demonstrated that substituting hemp seed preserved intestinal barrier function and reduced plasma levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1). PAI-1 is a marker linked to inflammation and cardiovascular risk, suggesting hemp seed's potential in modulating metabolic and inflammatory pathways.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9552265/ – This research, likely a review or mechanistic study, further supports the findings from the previous animal study regarding hemp seed's impact on metabolic and inflammatory markers. It reinforces the idea that hemp seed consumption can positively influence the endocannabinoidome and intestinal health.
https://www.garagegymreviews.com/hemp-protein-powder-benefits – This source provides a general overview of the nutritional profile of hemp protein powder, highlighting its balanced amino acid content, high fiber, and healthy polyunsaturated fats. It also addresses common questions regarding its completeness as a protein and its lack of psychoactive effects or impact on drug tests.
https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7891210/ – This review highlights the antihypertensive potential of hydrolyzed hempseed proteins, specifically through their ability to inhibit angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE). It synthesizes existing research on this mechanism, suggesting a pathway for cardiovascular benefits, but notes the need for more human randomized controlled trials to confirm these effects.