“But Where Do You Get Your Protein?”….

I first began my plant based lifestyle 11 years ago (wow, that was quick!).  At the time I was recovering from a serious illness and did not want to go the way of surgery and medication. It was extremely important to me to eat in a way that would provide me with plenty of energy and stamina without having to gulp down whey protein shakes or eat meat to provide me with iron and amino acids. One of the biggest concerns family, friends and strangers have is protein…. if I had a dollar for everyone that asked, “but where do you get your protein!?”….

The Institute of Medicine recommends .8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight (or 0.37 grams per pound). So for myself, I opt for approximately 40ish grams of protein. So in addition to getting my daily protein needs met through oats (17g), beans (5g), nuts (22g), seeds (33g), tofu (17g), and spinach (yup, 3g), I’m also a big fan of hemp!

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These are a few of the awesome benefits of hemp protein:

Complete Amino Acid Profile – Unlike a lot of seeds, hemp protein contains all 20 essential amino acids, both essential and non-essential. Complete amino acids are needed to form protein in the body, which fuels and repairs muscle cells, regulates neurotransmitter function in the brain, and regulates the nervous system function.

Source of Lean Protein -Hemp protein is made by cold-milling hemp seeds. During the process, some of its fat is removed and the final product is the natural protein found in hemp seeds. Helpful for digestion, metabolism, and for promoting a healthy, lean body mass. 

Energizing Vitamins & Minerals – Hemp is packed full of iron,  magnesium and zinc!

Rich in Fiber – The majority of plant proteins contain some fiber, but hemp protein packs a whopping 8-15 grams of fiber (depending on the type of hemp protein you choose). Fiber is helps to regulate your blood sugar, protect your heart, and help to digest yummy foods

Low-Carb –  If you’re on a low-carb kick, then you might like the fact that hemp protein is very low in net carbs. 

Omega 3 Fatty Acids – These omega 3s are trending and hemp contains 1245 grams of omega 3 fatty acids in just 1.5 tablespoons!

Anti-inflammatory – Hemp protein has a natural greenish brown color that comes from the chlorophyll found in hemp seeds and chlorophyll protects against inflammation. 

And if that wasn’t enough… hemp protein is also grain-free, nut-free, gluten-free, vegan, and uber easy for the body to process. So whether you’re 100 percent plant-based or just looking for a cleaner protein, consider giving hemp protein a try!

What are you waiting for? Try hemp protein in the Protein Brownies with Cranberry Cream Frosting

Ingredients

• 3/4 cup hemp protein powder 
• 1/4 cup tigernut flour
• 1/2 cup raw cacao powder (carob powder is a delicious substitute)
• 1/4 cup arrowroot powder 
• 1/4 cup coconut flour 
• 1 teaspoon baking soda
• 1 teaspoon baking powder
• 1 egg or 1 flax egg
• 3/4 cup unsweetened applesauce (pumpkin puree works well, too)
• 1 Tablespoon cinnamon
• Dash of Nutmeg
• 1/8th teaspoon stevia
• 1 cup strong hot coffee

Cranberry Frosting 

• 1 batch of Cranberry Cream Frosting

Directions

Combine all ingredients into a large bowl and mix together, end with adding hot coffee. Batter will be extremely thick. Spread your protein brownie batter into a lightly coconut oil greased 8×8 baking dish. Bake at 350 for 25 minutes.

As bars cool, make up frosting. Then spread onto brownie protein brownies

Cut into slices. Store in refrigerator if you have left overs… I never do; hehehe.