This protein rich green smoothie contains 15g of protein per serving. The two key ingredients which give this smoothie its protein boost are hemp seeds and kale. This recipe is nutritious, colourful and delicious! I want to share with you some amazing health benefits of hemp seeds to get you even more excited to drink this recipe on a regular basis.

Hemp seeds come from the hemp plant called Cannabis Sativa. Although they are from the same species as marijuana, hemp seeds only contain minute amounts of the compound THC, which causes drug-like effects.

Hemp seeds have an impressive nutrient profile including healthy fats, fibre, protein and minerals including Vitamin E, potassium, iron, magnesium, and zinc. It also has the perfect balance of omega 3-6-9 fatty acid (3:1) which have beneficial effects on our cardiovascular health.

J.C. Calloway from the Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, University of Kuopio writes:

“Hempseed is an excellent source of nutrition. Indica- tions from traditional Chinese medicine, recent anecdo- tal reports and modern human clinical trials agree that hempseed has health promoting properties that are sup- ported by results from nutritional analyses of the seed, oil and seed meal. In particular, the healing properties of hempseed can be attributed to high levels of EFAs and other PUFAs in the oil, in addition to a rich source of important amino acids in an easily digested protein.”

This study shows evidence that hemp proteins have a protein digestibility-corrected amino acid score (PDCAAS) equal to or greater than certain grains, nuts, and some pulses. Hulled hemp seeds, which have had their outer shell removed, have an even higher digestibility rate.

The bioactive and protective compounds in hemp are a good source of antioxidant activity. They may help to protect the brain and contribute to the prevention of neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimers.

Other benefits of hemp seeds

– may help alleviate constipation

– may lower cholesterol

– may help with weight loss

– the amma-linolenic acid found in hemp seeds may help prevent disease

– may improve high blood pressure

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Protein Rich Green Smoothie

This protein rich green smoothie will fuel your body, energise your cells and keep you feeling full for longer.

• 3 frozen bananas
• 1/2 cup mango
• 2 leaves kale (stems removed)
• 1 tbsp hemp seeds
• 2 cups coconut water

1. Blend all ingredients until smooth and creamy.