Is Hemp The New Weed?

One thing I've learned since becoming a vegan is that hemp is an excellent source of protein.  Unfortunately due to its close relationship to marijuana, hemp is a federally regulated controlled substance.  The truth is the two couldn't be more different.

Both hemp and marijuana are derived from the Cannabis Sativa plant.  While marijuana contains high levels of THC, hemp contains low levels of this psychoactive ingredient.  Another noteworthy fact is that hemp also contains high levels of CBD which is an antipsychoactive.

So what does this mean? Simply that it's not possible to get high on hemp.  So there is absolutely no legitimate reason why this natural resources shouldn't be utilized. Whether you are a vegan or not, hemp is something you may want to consider incorporating in your diet.

Why? well for starters hemp is a complete protein and contains essential fatty acids. It's also a natural antioxidant.   Hemp is also low in calories and high in fiber which makes it very filling.  Hemp is simply a diet friendly wonder food.

Nutiva is a company that produces Hemp and sadly they have had their share of problems with US policies.  In spite of these hardships the company still manages to thrive. I started drinking their plain hemp shakes a while back when I saw the company featured on some news show.

Nutiva products meet the highest standards of Certified Organic and are certified Non-GMO by the project. As far as protein shakes go I feel Nutiva's Hemp Shake is the best, but I'm not talking about tasted as much as quality of the product.  List of ingredients for the Hemp Shake include:

Hemp Oil, Hempseed, Chia Seeds, Coconut Oil and Coconut Manna.


Nutiva sent me their organic chocolate hemp shake for review.  It's actually not half bad for a protein shake.  Other flavors include Super Berry and Vanilla.  A serving is only 90 calories and 3 grams of fat; healthy fat that is, 11 grams of protein and 9 grams of fiber.   This adds up to only one weight watchers point, because this is so low I often double the servings for extra protein.

The Hemp Shake contains another superfood called Chia Seeds.   Chia seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, as well as essential minerals;  phosphorus, manganese, calcium and potassium.  Nutiva also carries white chia seeds that can be used in a variety of recipes as well as simply tossed in a salad, cereal, shakes and more.

 What I like about Chia and Hemp is that the are both low in calories and very filling.  Two wonder foods that are beneficial and very easy to assimilate into ones diet.


To learn more visit Nutiva.com

Pin It