Canadian researchers to study the effects of hemp proteins on hypertension

Canadian researchers prepare a study on the curative properties of hemp proteins on hypertension. Previous studies had found conclusive results in hypertensive rats. This study will be conducted on humans and will be randomized. In addition to hypertension, it will assess the effect of a hemp protein diet on weight, cholesterol levels, body mass, hormones and insulin production.

The scourge of hypertension

According to the WHO, hypertension has become a truly global health crisis: 45 to 51% of annual deaths worldwide are linked to hypertension, i.e. around half, and more than 1.3 billion people are currently diagnosed with hypertension. Untreated, hypertension can cause heart attacks, strokes, kidney disease, vision loss or erectile dysfunction, among other things. Some studies also suggest that hypertension developed between the ages of 45 and 65 may lead to increased risk of dementia later in life.

As these figures suggest, hypertension is widespread, and is likely to be even more so among the younger generations, who are accumulating high-risk behaviours (heavy smoking, alcohol consumption and poor diet). Yet the drugs used to treat it have many undesirable side effects. «Drugs have many side effects,» explains Dr. Rotimi Aluko, who is leading the study. «If we can show that this protein works against hypertension, then people will be able to take a natural protein instead».

The study

The study will involve 35 volunteers divided into three groups. The first group will ingest hemp protein alone, the second hemp protein with peptides, and the third hemp protein with casein. The proteins, in powder form, will be mixed into a smoothie that participants will consume twice a day for three 42-day periods, interspersed with a 14-day break. The subjects' condition will be assessed at the start and end of each diet. In all, the study will last 22 weeks.

The hemp protein will be supplied by Manitoba Harvest, which is sponsoring the study. Their protein is already available for purchase on the Canadian and U.S. markets under the name Hemp Yeah! Max Protein. The study is funded by the Fondation Heart and Stroke of Canada. Dr Aluko is still looking for volunteers and hopes to be able to proceed with the study this year. If all goes well, the results should be available before the end of 2020, and if they are conclusive, the doctor is planning a similar study on kidney disease this time.