Can You Realistically Gain Muscle With Hemp Protein?

Key Takeaways

• Hemp protein is a complete protein, containing all nine essential amino acids necessary for muscle growth.

• It is derived from hemp seeds, which are rich in fiber, healthy fats, and vital nutrients.

• Hemp protein can aid in muscle gain when combined with a balanced diet and regular exercise.

• It is especially beneficial for those with dietary restrictions, such as vegans and individuals with dairy allergies.

• Our Complete Plant-Based Protein combines the power of pea and hemp protein - all to give you a daily nutritional boost!

How Does Hemp Protein Help You Gain Muscle

Hemp protein aids muscle gain through several mechanisms related to its nutritional composition and physiological effects. 

Here’s how:

1. Complete Protein

Hemp protein comes with all nine essential amino acids your body needs to repair and grow muscles. One standout amino acid is leucine, which activates the mTOR pathway - a key driver of muscle protein synthesis (MPS). 

Sure, hemp has slightly less leucine than whey, but it still plays a big role in building and repairing muscle tissue after intense workouts.

If you’re looking for a great all-vegan mix of amino acids, try our Essential Aminos!

2. Easy to Digest

Forget the bloating and discomfort! 

Hemp protein is 60-80% digestible, meaning your body can absorb and use its amino acids efficiently. This fast and smooth digestion is key to helping your muscles recover and grow stronger after every session.

3. Packed with Healthy Fats

Hemp is loaded with omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are great for your heart. Plus, it:

• Reduces soreness: The anti-inflammatory powers of omega-3s can ease post-workout aches, so you’re ready for your next training session.

• Boosts energy: Healthy fats are a long-lasting fuel source, keeping you energized for those extra reps or longer runs.

4. Fiber for the Win

Hemp protein’s fiber content keeps your gut happy and your energy levels steady. A healthy digestive system means better nutrient absorption, so your body gets the maximum benefits from your protein. 

Plus, stable blood sugar levels help you stay fueled for intense workouts without the dreaded crash.

5. Antioxidant Properties

Intense exercise can cause oxidative stress on your muscles - but hemp’s antioxidants are here to save the day! They protect your muscles from damage, speeding up recovery and helping you bounce back stronger.

6. Synergistic Effects with Other Proteins

Want to supercharge your gains? Pair hemp protein with other plant-based options like pea or brown rice protein. 

Together, they create a balanced amino acid profile that maximizes your muscle-building potential.

Recommended Intake For Muscle Gain

Recommended Serving Size

• Standard Serving: Start with about 30 grams (roughly 2-3 tablespoons) of hemp protein powder per serving. That’s approx. 15 grams of protein in every scoop!

• Frequency: For optimal results, aim for 2-3 servings daily. That’s a solid 30-45 grams of extra protein fueling your day!

Protein Needs Based on Your Activity Level

Your protein requirements depend on how active you are:

• Sedentary Crowd: You’ll need about 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight.

• For the gym enthusiasts: If you’re working out regularly, bump that up to 1.6 to 2.2 grams per kilogram of body weight. The harder you train, the more protein your muscles need!

Timing for Muscle Gain

• Post-Workout Recovery: Your muscles are crying out for nutrients after a workout. Grab a serving of hemp protein immediately after exercising, then follow it up with a balanced meal 2-3 hours later for ultimate recovery.

• Pre-Workout Power: Want to sustain your energy during training? Take hemp protein about an hour before your workout for a steady release of amino acids to fuel your session.

Pro Tips for Muscle-Building Success

• Mind the BCAAs: Hemp protein is incredible, but it has slightly lower levels of branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) compared to whey. So, just level up your serving size or combine it with other high-BCAA foods for maximum gains.

• Mix It Up: Blend your hemp protein with high-protein plant-based milk like soy or pea milk. This creates a more complete amino acid profile to supercharge muscle growth.

Read More: Why Plant-Based Protein Could Be the Better Choice for Athletes

10 Ways To Add Hemp Protein To Your Diet

Powders are the most convenient way to gain protein as they can be mixed with any dish.

1. Smoothies and Shakes: Blend hemp protein with your favorite fruits, spinach, almond milk, and a dollop of nut butter for the ultimate recovery drink.

2. Baking Goodness: Swap out 25% of the flour in your muffin, cookie, or brownie recipes with hemp protein for guilt-free indulgence.

3. Oatmeal and Cereals: Stir a scoop into your oatmeal or sprinkle it over cereal for a fiber-and-protein combo that keeps you full and fuels your muscles.

4. Yogurt Bowls: Mix hemp protein into your yogurt, toss in some fresh fruit or nuts, and voilà - a snack that’s as satisfying as it is nutritious!

5. Energy Balls and Snacks: Combine hemp protein with rolled oats, nut butter, honey, and seeds to make no-bake energy balls. Perfect for a quick, on-the-go snack.

6. Soups and Stews: Sneak in a scoop while cooking soups or stews. It blends right in, boosting the nutrition without changing the flavor.

7. Salads with a Crunch: Sprinkle shelled hemp seeds on top of your salads for extra protein, healthy fats, and a satisfying crunch.

8. Hemp Milk: Use hemp milk as a base for smoothies or pour it over your cereal. It’s a creamy, protein-rich alternative to dairy or almond milk.

9. Dips and Spreads: Mix hemp protein into homemade hummus or other spreads to amp up the nutrition while keeping the flavors you love.

10. High-Protein Nut Butters: Blend a scoop into your favorite nut butter for a spread that’s perfect on toast, fruits, or straight off the spoon.

Read More: Can You Realistically Gain Muscle with Pea Protein?

Why Use LiveGood’s Complete Plant-Based Protein

Our product is dairy-free, gluten-free, and keto-friendly to suit a wide variety of diets.

If you’re looking for a protein supplement that’s both nutritious and effective, our Complete Plant-Based Protein is just for you. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your diet:

1. A Protein Powerhouse

Our blend includes hemp protein - a complete protein packed with all nine essential amino acids. If you are a vegan, vegetarian, or just want a clean, plant-based option, our protein delivers the goods without relying on animal products.

2. A Balanced Nutritional Boost

However, it doesn’t stop at hemp protein. Our formula combines multiple plant-based proteins to create a complete nutritional profile that supports muscle growth, recovery, and overall health!

3. Eat it Your Way

If you’re whipping up a smoothie, baking protein-packed cookies, or cooking soups or stews, our protein powder’s tasty flavor blends right in. And, these are just some of the ideas! 

4. Good for You and the Planet

Our commitment to sustainability is another win. How? Our plant-based protein has a much lower carbon footprint than animal-based alternatives. 

Try Our Complete Plant-Based Protein Today

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is hemp protein?

Hemp protein is a nutrient-packed, plant-based protein powder made from grinding the seeds of the hemp plant (Cannabis sativa). It’s a complete protein your body needs for muscle repair, recovery, and overall health.

Can hemp protein be included in a gluten-free diet?

Yes! Hemp protein is naturally gluten-free, making it a fantastic choice for those with gluten sensitivities or celiac disease.

Are there any side effects of consuming hemp protein?

Hemp protein is generally safe for most people. However, consuming too much too quickly might cause mild digestive discomfort, like gas or bloating. 

To avoid this, start small and gradually increase your serving size as your body adjusts.

Can hemp protein replace whey protein?

Yes, hemp protein can be an excellent substitute for whey! While it may not pack as much pure protein per serving, its complete amino acid profile and bonus nutrients make it a top contender - especially for those who are lactose intolerant or prefer plant-based options. 

For even better results, combine hemp protein with other plant-based sources (like pea or rice protein) to maximize its muscle-building potential.

How many vitamins and minerals does your protein powder contain?

Apart from all 9 essential amino acids, our Complete Plant-Based Protein is loaded with 26 essential vitamins and minerals, including:

• Vitamin B: For sustained energy and focus.

• Iron: To support muscle growth and recovery.

• Iodine: To keep your metabolism running smoothly.