Perhaps this is understandable, given the supplement industry’s desire to promote certain products while ignoring better alternatives.
For a long time, the uninformed elements of society assumed that whey protein was the #1 option. Go to most commercial gyms, and you’ll doubtless see advertisements highlighting the benefits of such products. However, the good times for whey protein companies could be over as a new threat has emerged. It is called hemp protein, and this article outlines why it is set to steal whey’s thunder. In it, I investigate both products to help you decide which one is the best option.
According to data from Mordor Intelligence, the whey protein industry in Australia is worth just over $48 million per annum. However, it is only set to grow at a rate of around 4-5% each year, perhaps indicating that hemp protein is muscling in.
In any case, whey protein is taken from milk during the cheese-making process. The body absorbs it quickly, which is one of the reasons why so many gymgoers like to use it after a workout. You can divide whey protein into three distinct types: whey isolate, whey concentrate, and whey hydrolysate.
As the name suggests, isolate has minimal carbs or fat. Concentrate has a reasonable degree of nutrients but a lower protein content. Hydrolysate is a predigested protein, so your body should absorb it more easily.
Hemp protein comes from hemp seeds and is known for its wide array of nutrients. Like whey protein, it contains all essential amino acids, not to mention a high rate of vitamins and minerals. The hemp protein market is growing, with more products available than powder.
For example, the Premium Jane protein bar you can buy on the official website of this well-respected brand is one of the company’s hottest products. You can buy it in peanut butter and chocolate flavours, with each bar containing between 7.5 grams and 8.1 grams of protein, depending on the option you choose. These bars are an ideal snack.
This article isn’t designed to bash whey protein. Far from it. I recognize that it has plenty of plus points. These include a high protein content, excellent amino acid profile, and relatively low price point. However, there are a few categories where it falls down compared to hemp protein.
One of the great benefits of hemp protein powder is its digestibility. It’s true that whey protein offers faster absorption, quickly elevating the level of amino acids in the body. However, hemp protein is easier to digest for many people. It is especially useful for users who have sensitivities to dairy or are lactose intolerant. With hemp protein, you can consume it in the knowledge that it’s less likely to cause digestive discomfort than its whey counterpart.
Then there is the small matter of hemp protein being plant-based and vegan friendly. In case you didn’t know, the number of vegans is growing incredibly quickly, and food producers are struggling to meet the demand! Hemp protein is a reliable protein source for vegans since it comes from a plant.
Furthermore, since it contains fiber, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids, one could view hemp protein as a complete food source. Add in the fact it helps you feel fuller for longer, not to mention the low-calorie count, and you have an extra weapon in the battle to lose weight.
If all of the above isn’t enough, hemp cultivation is environmentally friendly compared to standard dairy farming. Thus, you’re helping the plant as well as your waistline.
Whey protein remains a viable option for a huge number of people. It is quickly absorbed and filled with nutrients. Yet, if you’re vegetarian or vegan, hemp protein is a genuine alternative. It offers many of the pros of whey protein and is easier to digest. Thus, it is suitable if you find that whey protein isn’t so gentle on the stomach.
