When I was still ignorant about nutrition, I drank protein shakes after long runs. The usual. You know, the swanky tubs full of protein powder with the words “MEGAPOWER” on them. You read organic in vain. What was smelling there, in case I cleaned the plastic shake cup sloppily, was either egg protein from barn-raised chickens or milk/whey protein from cows with mastitis (udder inflammation). Shame on me.
A few weeks ago, I reactivated my running program. By chance, I was given a tin of organic hemp protein powder as a gift. It contains almost 50 grams of protein per 100 grams. Plus carbohydrates, fat, omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, fiber and sodium. It is also lactose and gluten free. Whether protein powder actually builds muscle to a large extent, and not mainly the manufacturer’s fortune, is controversial. Oh, what am I ranting about, very likely a balanced diet provides (high performance) athletes with everything he or she needs.
I myself take the powder occasionally. If I’m still a bit hungry after my evening jog, but don’t want to eat much because my sleep will suffer, I throw a banana into the Vita-Mix and whatever else is lying around in the fruit bowl and sprinkle one or two tablespoons on top. I like the taste of the green Mucki powder. The organic hand protein powder is also available in well-stocked organic stores.