Hemp Milk: Nutrients, Benefits And Recipe

Hemp milk is a vegetable drink obtained from the mixture of ground hemp seeds and water. It can be used as an alternative to cow’s milk and is suitable for vegan consumption.

Hemp milk is a drink of high nutritional value, as it contains large amounts of vitamins, amino acids and minerals. It has a silky texture and a whitish color. Its flavor is reminiscent of walnut and is slightly bitter so it can be sweetened with sugar or sweeteners.

This drink is an interesting option for those who are lactose intolerant or follow a vegan diet.

Nutritional value of hemp milk

Hemp milk is an ideal supplement for anyone looking to increase their daily intake of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is made from hemp seeds, which is the cannabis plant, for legal and strictly regulated consumption.

The proportion of nutrients that it presents is the following:

• High content of essential fatty acids (40%): those fatty acids that the body cannot synthesize and needs to include them from external sources. Its high amount of omega 3, omega 6 and gamma-linolenic acid is especially remarkable.

• High percentage of vegetable proteins (35%): it contains all the essential amino acids in a similar percentage to animal protein sources such as meat, milk or eggs.
• High amount of fiber (6%): beneficial for digestive health.
• High content of vitamin E : a powerful natural antioxidant.
• Rich in essential minerals: phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc and magnesium.

On the contrary, they have a low amount of:

• Carbohydrates (10%).
• Vitamin A, B and C.
• Calcium and manganese.

Hemp milk benefits

Contains essential nutrients and vitamins

As we have seen in the previous section, hemp milk is rich in essential nutrients for the body such as phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron or zinc. These minerals are important in the process of muscle contraction, the formation of bones and some biochemical processes of the nervous system, among many other things.

On the other hand, vitamin E is an important antioxidant in the field of cardiovascular health.

Regulation of intestinal transit and cholesterol

The high fiber content of the hemp seeds that are used to make this vegetable drink favors the regulation of intestinal transit, preventing constipation problems.

It is also worth noting its regulatory action on cholesterol levels and blood pressure, since fiber prevents the absorption of LDL (bad cholesterol).

Contraindications of hemp milk

The interaction of this drink with other compounds can reduce the formation of platelets, therefore, people who have problems related to coagulation or who are taking specific drugs should take this drink with caution and consult a professional.

Also, consumed in excess, hemp milk can cause diarrhea, stomach pain and bloating due to its high fiber content.

Prescription

Hemp milk is very easy to prepare and can last up to three days in good condition when stored in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Its production method is similar to that of other vegetable drinks, such as almond or soy milk.

Ingredients

• 150 grams of hemp seeds
• 1 liter of water
• Sugar or natural sweetener: honey, stevia, cinnamon or dates
• a pinch of salt

Preparation

• Soak the hemp seeds in a liter of water for about two hours.
• Once the time has elapsed, proceed to crush the mixture with the help of a mixer. It is recommended to do it in parts, to ensure that it is a homogeneous mixture.

• Next, strain the resulting drink with a very fine strainer or with a vegetable tissue cloth. The part that remains in the strainer can be used to make cookies, bread, muesli, or biscuits.
• Add the pinch of salt and sweeten to your liking.
• Put the milk in a bottle and it is ready for consumption.

Hemp milk, like the rest of vegetable drinks, is very versatile and can serve as a base for making smoothies, desserts and sauces. Combined with fruit, low-fat cheese and some whole grain cereal, it makes a nutritious and complete breakfast or snack.