The debate of Hemp Protein Powder versus Whey Protein Powder tends to sway back and forth with advocates on both sides. However, the advocates of Whey Protein Powder overlook the processing methods of Whey and the nutritional breakdown of Hemp within the body.
Usually, when brands advertise proteins they go for a quantitative approach, but we’re here to tell you that it’s the quality of proteins along with the fiber content that is the real game-changer for your health, and that is mainly derived from a plant source.
Your body is a complex biological chemical factory designed for a plant-based source of nutrition. Allow nature to do its nurture. You may read more to back the claim of how a plant-based diet is the right fuel for your body here:
So, have you ever wondered why so many people are lactose-intolerant – take a guess?
It may be that this information could settle the score, but acceptance of both sides is necessary.
Whey VS. Hemp will be heard once again; every individual needs to choose what is best for his or her needs, and we're here to help you decide!
Starting with the first stage of making..
The Process of Making–
WHEY
Whey protein is a by-product of the cheese-making process. It is derived through a series of mechanical separations and filtration during a heat-treating process of milk.
What is disappointing about whey is that manufacturers often use a hexane chemical agent in the protein isolating process to obtain such a fabulous 99% protein concentration in whey protein powders.
Unfortunately, the consumer cannot find out exactly what type of process is used to isolate the protein.
Another concern is that many whey protein powder products use filler proteins or non-essential amino acids, such as L-Glycine or L-Taurine, which the human body cannot absorb and digest and provide no nutritional quality to the body.
It’s just there to jack up the protein concentration and numbers, in the amino acid testing (basic protein compound) during the final food quality analysis.
This is highly discussed in the supplement and fitness industry and is known as “amino acid spiking”. If you are using whey, be sure to read your labels as you should not be consuming ‘empty’ protein products that do more harm to your body with the misconception that you're increasing your protein intake.
The other issue is the usage of sugars and artificial flavoring in these products, which mask the chemical taste of these powders, providing no nutritional value to the consumer.
Again, who would ever be a fan of artificial ingredients in their foods?
HEMP
Hemp in India Is grown in pristine nature on the luscious foothills of the Himalayas. As a plant, hemp does not require any fertilizers or pesticides to grow. It's as natural as nature can get.
The Hemp plant takes around 3-4 months to grow and produce seeds for harvest. Ancient wisdom and modern science have proved these seeds to be the World’s best Superfood. And these seeds are converted to make Hemp Protein Powder.
Hemp protein powder is a by-product of cold-pressed Hemp Seed Oil. The defatted Hemp remains are called Hemp cake. This Hemp cake is then milled into a fine powder. During the entire process, there are no chemicals or additives added.
There is no need to add any sugars or artificial flavoring to Hemp Protein Powders as these do not add any nutritional value to the powder, and Hemp vouches for allowing nature to do its nurture.
This powder has a nutty-earthy-organic taste and can be consumed with water/shake or blended into your food, like adding it to the atta (flour) of your roti/chappati or daal-rice.
Nutritional Breakdown
WHEY
Whey does win the 'quantity' of protein war when comparing apples to apples.
It has more protein, fewer carbs, and calories than its Hemp competitor.
But the methods used to isolate these proteins are not recommended for the human body as they do more harm than good.
Whey contains mostly alpha-lactalbumin and beta-albumin and is particularly high in branch-chain amino acids. The amino acid profiles of Whey protein and Hemp protein differ, but both contain all essential amino acids.
However, since Whey is derived from an animal-based product, and contains artificial ingredients and chemicals, it is a lot harder for our system to digest, which results in the common problem Whey users face- bloating, which is a clear indication from our bodies that it's just not the right fuel for us.
HEMP
Hemp protein is a natural plant-based product that contains all 20 amino acids including the 9 essential and 2 semi-essential amino acids required for the human body.
With a protein base compromised primarily of Edestin and Albumin (the same amino acid that gives eggs their glory), Hemp protein is easily digested (Hemp is rated as a 90% digestibility protein) which is another reason it's ranked above Whey.
All Hemp foods also contain important poly-unsaturated fats (Omega 3, 6 & 9) and Fibre. But hemp protein powder is very high in insoluble fiber, which is very important for the body to eliminate toxins which prevent diseases and improve the functioning of the digestive system.
We cannot stress the importance of fibers for your body which are only available from a plant-based source.
Apart from just protein, Hemp comes with added benefits of essential vitamins and minerals such as zinc, iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, etc which boost your body's immune system, and also help in recovery and inflammation and boasts of a complete amino acid profile. And we all know, more than the burn of working out, it's the post-workout recovery that is essential.
Hemp is also especially high in arginine and glutamic acid, which are conditional amino acids that are used and needed by the body for when it becomes ill or stressed.
Further, it is safe for vegans and vegetarians, while Whey protein is only safe for a select group of vegetarians because of the risk of residual dairy.
Environmental effects
WHEY
The dairy industry is actually one of the leading causes of global warming. Many people have a false image of what the dairy industry is and what a dairy farm actually looks like. People who pay attention to factory farming and its consequences know that factory farms consume a lot of water and produce tons of methane which is definitely not very sustainable for our future.
HEMP
Hemp is a very sustainable crop and its farming can be very beneficial to the environment.
Hemp produces 4x more oxygen than trees and absorbs a lot of CO2 from the atmosphere which means that Hemp might prove to be one of the means of saving the planet from Global Warming.
Hemp requires very minimal use of water and no fertilizers or pesticides to grow. If you’re looking for a protein powder that is friendly to your body's health, your wallet and contributes to the environment as well, then Hemp is the choice for you!
As you can see, Hemp wins the battle due to its easy digestibility, complete protein profile that comes along with added benefits of essential fibers and minerals which serve it to be a wholesome nutritional choice, certainly sets it apart from other protein powders.
As a consumer, you have a choice and you decide what's the trade-off you're willing to make.
PS: If you're still of the beliefs that plants can't bulk you up, head here to blow your mind away:
https://www.indiahemporganics.com/blogs/news/plant-based-diets-vs-animal-based-diets
Conclusion
In conclusion, the evidence overwhelmingly favors Hemp Protein Powder over Whey Protein Powder. While Whey may offer higher protein content, its processing methods, artificial additives, and animal-based origin pose digestive and health concerns. In contrast, Hemp Protein Powder provides a natural, easily digestible alternative with a complete amino acid profile, essential fibers, minerals, and polyunsaturated fats. Additionally, Hemp cultivation is environmentally sustainable, promoting oxygen production and CO2 absorption. Choosing Hemp Protein Powder empowers individuals to prioritize their well-being while making eco-conscious decisions. By embracing the scientific facts, we can opt for a nutrient-rich, plant-based protein option that supports our health and the planet.
