Hemp Milk: Nutrients, Benefits And A Recipe
Hemp milk has a high nutritional value because it contains lots of vitamins, amino acids and minerals. The milk itself has a silky structure and is white. The taste is reminiscent of nuts and is a little bitter, but it can be sweetened with sugar or sweeteners.
It is a great option for people who are lactose intolerant or vegan.
Nutritional value of hemp milk
Hemp milk is an excellent supplement for anyone who wants to increase their daily intake of proteins, vitamins and minerals. The milk itself is composed of hemp seeds that come from the cannabis plant. The sale of seeds is strictly regulated and legal to buy.
Nutrients found in hemp milk include:
- High content of essential fatty acids (40%): These fatty acids can not be produced by the body and must be consumed from food or supplements. Hemp milk contains a particularly high amount of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and gamma-linolenic acid.
- High percentage of vegetable proteins (35%): It contains all the essential amino acids and with similar percentages as for animal protein sources such as meat, milk or eggs.
- Rich in fiber (6%): It is beneficial for digestion.
- High Vitamin E Content: This is a powerful and natural antioxidant.
- Rich in essential minerals: It includes phosphorus, potassium, iron, zinc and magnesium.
On the other hand, it has a low content of:
- Carbohydrates (10%)
- Vitamins A, B and C.
- Calcium and manganese
Also read: Three delicious recipes for vegan cheese
The benefits of hemp milk
It contains essential vitamins and minerals
As we have mentioned before, hemp milk is rich in important nutrients that the body needs. These include phosphorus, magnesium, potassium, iron and zinc. These minerals are important for muscle contraction, bone formation and certain biochemical processes in the nervous system.
In addition, vitamin E is an important antioxidant for cardiovascular health.
It regulates the intestinal system and cholesterol
As the seeds used to make hemp milk are rich in fiber, it helps regulate the intestinal system and prevents constipation.
It also regulates cholesterol and blood pressure because the fiber prevents the uptake of LDL (bad cholesterol).
Warnings when consuming hemp milk
Interaction of hemp milk with other compounds may reduce the formation of platelets. Therefore, people who have problems with coagulation (also called blood coagulation) or who are taking certain medicines should not drink hemp milk without first consulting a professional or doctor.
In addition, if ingested excessively, it can cause diarrhea, abdominal pain and upset stomach due to its high fiber content.
Contact your doctor if you have any questions about consumption.
Also read: Three ways to make vegan smoothies
A recipe for hemp milk
This vegetable milk is easy to prepare and can last for up to three days if stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The recipe is very similar to other recipes for 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, dates, etc.
- A pinch of salt
Course of action
- Soak the hemp seeds in a liter of water for approx. two hours.
- After the two hours have elapsed, put the mixture in a blender. It is best not to put the whole mixture in at once, but rather in parts to ensure that the mixture is smooth.
- Strain the mixture with a sieve or a piece of thin cloth. The solid remnants of the mixture can be used to make cookies, bread, muesli or biscuits.
- Add a pinch of salt and sweetener to your liking.
- Pour the milk into a bottle and enjoy!
Hemp milk, like other vegetable beverages, is very versatile and can be used to make smoothies, desserts and sauces. You can also combine it with fruit, low-fat cheese and whole grains for a nutritious and well-balanced breakfast or snack.
