Hemp and Cortisol

Hemp Info:

• Protein-rich
• Low-GI
• Rich in Omega 3 & source of Fibre
• Supportive of muscle repair and recovery
• Able to aid in appetite control and sugar cravings
• Low in saturated fat and carbohydrate
  
  

Health Benefits of Hemp Protein:

• Increased energy/productivity
• Improved metabolism
• Reduced food cravings
• Reduced cholesterol and blood pressure
• Improved immune system ​​

Edestin globulin protein found in Hemp seeds contains all 8 essential amino acids. This makes hemp the superior source for this protein in the plant kingdom. Edestin is a type of plant protein that is similar to protein found in the human body, and thus is perfectly suited to aid in meeting the body’s cellular needs such as DNA repair. Since much of hemp’s protein resembles that found in human blood, hemp protein is very easily digested and assimilated. In addition, another one-third of hemp’s protein is albumin, another high quality globulin protein. 

With a protein structure of 66% edestin and 33% albumin, hemp seeds (latin: sativa) contain all 8 essential amino acids plus 2 conditionally essential amino acids. In addition to its surprising protein profile, it also contains the perfect ratio of omega fatty acids researchers recommend for good health: 3- omega-3`s to 1-omega-6. 

​Why Are Amino Acids Important? 
A human being needs 21 amino acids to survive: Eight are essential and must be obtained from food; two are conditionally essential and can be synthesized if all the eight essential amino acids are consumed. No other plant or animal source, aside from hemp, contains the first ten amino acids necessary for health. Nor do any of them contain the fatty acid ratio essential for life. 
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Cortisol Info:

1. Hemp protein is very filling so you're likely to feel fuller for longer, and consume less calories throughout your day. 
2. Cortisol production is generally at its peak in the early hours of the morning and then gradually  declines over the course of the day. 
3. Cortisol circadian rhythms are closely coupled to the sleep-wake cycle. Peak cortisol release occurs between 7 and 9 in the morning, the time of dark-light transition. 

Tips to help lower and regulate Cortisol: 

• Consume enough calories from non-processed foods to prevent depletion 
• Get 7-9 hours of sleep per night to decrease stress and cortisol release 
• Consume complex carbohydrates and protein after activity sessions 
• Don’t isolate yourself – spend time with friends and family 
• Regularly participate in a stress-relieving activity like mild yoga or meditation 

What to Eat/Foods to Incorporate

• Cortisol plays a role in regulating blood sugar; keeping your glucose levels balanced 
  through your diet will take some stress off the adrenal glands and help level out your cortisol levels. Eat three meals and two healthy snacks (or frequent small meals) throughout the course of the day, balanced in protein, complex carbs and healthy fats 
• Avoid foods that cause inflammation, which can cause elevated cortisol levels. Inflammatory foods include those that are high in saturated and trans fats and low in fiber, such as fried foods, red meat and full-fat dairy products. 
• Focus on consuming high-fiber foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, beans, bran and other whole grains. Women need 21 to 25 grams. 
• Include avocados, and foods in omega-3 fatty acids. Avoid refined carbohydrates, ditch caffeine and minimize alcohol intake. 
• Eliminate Caffeine: 200mg of caffeine (one 12oz mug) increases blood cortisol levels by 30% in one hour. Cortisol can remain elevated for up to 18 hours in the blood. 
• Avoid refined carbs. Diets rich in complex carbs keep cortisol lelevs lower than low carb diets. 
• Keep WELL hydrated. Dehydration puts the body in stress and raises cortisol levels. 
• TIP: keep pure water by your bed and drink a little when you go to sleep and when you wake up. 

(Reference: http://thehempnetworknews.com/hemp-news/edestin-a-globulin-protein-found-only-in-hemp- seeds%E2%80%A6increases-2/)