If you're looking for an alternative to dairy milk, hemp milk might be a good choice for you. Hemp milk is a nutritious plant-based beverage that is praised for its many health benefits. And unlike most other plant-based milks out there, hemp milk doesn't contain any soy, gluten, or nuts, making it a great choice for people with dietary restrictions or food sensitivities.
What Is Hemp Milk?
Hemp milk is a dairy-free, plant-based drink made from the pressed seeds of the hemp plant, Cannabis sativa. It has a creamy texture and nutty flavor. Hemp milk is a good alternative to cow's milk for people who are lactose intolerant or have allergies to dairy products because it is lactose and dairy free. Hemp milk is also vegan- and vegetarian-friendly.
With its rich flavor and smooth texture, hemp milk is perfect on its own or as an ingredient in your favorite recipes. You can use it in your coffee or cereal or to make ice cream, milkshakes, smoothies, or baked goods like muffins or pancakes.
Hemp Milk Nutrition Facts
One cup of unsweetened plain hemp milk contains the following:
- Calories 100
- Carbohydrates 8 grams
- Protein 2 grams
- Fat 7 grams
- Dietary fiber 0 grams
- Calcium 300 mg (30% DV)
- Vitamin D 100 IU (25% DV)
Benefits of Hemp Milk
Compared to low-fat cow's milk, hemp milk has fewer carbohydrates, fewer grams of protein, and more fat. It has about the same amount of calcium and vitamin D. Like cow's milk, hemp milk contains all essential amino acids, making it a complete protein. No other plant-based milk is a complete protein.
Hemp seeds are high in omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fats aren't found in cow's milk or most plant-based milks, so this is a clear benefit. Research shows that omega-3 fats help prevent heart disease, stroke, cancer, and other conditions.
It's easy to make hemp milk at home using a blender or food processor, making it an affordable option for consumers. But store-bought hemp milk is often fortified with various vitamins and minerals, which further enhances its health benefits.
Hemp Milk Vs. Almond Milk
Two popular choices for those looking for a plant-based alternative to cow’s milk are hemp milk and almond milk. While these milks share some similarities, there are also some key differences that can help you decide which is the right choice for your diet.
Unsweetened plain almond milk has fewer calories and fat than unsweetened hemp milk, but some brands add sugar and other ingredients that are less healthy. Hemp milk is often fortified with vitamins and nutrients to make it more nutritious than other types of plant-based milks.
One downside of hemp milk is that it has an earthy flavor that some people find unappealing. And almond milk has a smoother, creamier texture than hemp milk that many people prefer.
Whether you opt for hemp or almond milk, be sure to read the ingredient list to ensure you are getting a product without unwanted added ingredients, such as sugars.
Hemp Milk FAQs
Hemp is any part of the Cannibis sativa plant with no more than 0.3% of THC, the substance in marijuana that alters the mind. THC is not the same as CBD, which does not impair the mind or cause a "high." Hemp contains lower concentrations of CBD than marijuana, and even then, most of the CBD is in the hemp plant's flowers rather than its seeds. So the amount of CBD in hemp milk is very little to none.
Yes, hemp milk is good for you because it has carbohydrates, protein, omega-3 fats, calcium, vitamin D, and other vitamins and minerals. And it’s also lactose free, making it an excellent option for anyone with lactose intolerance.
Hemp milk has a distinct flavor that is a little nutty, grassy, and sweet. Some people may find the flavor to be too strong or overpowering, while others enjoy its earthy taste.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for a dairy-free, plant-based milk alternative, hemp milk is a great choice. It is rich in healthy omega-3 fats as well as many other important vitamins and minerals. And with its smooth texture and nutty flavor, you can enjoy hemp milk on its own or in all kinds of recipes. So if you're looking for a healthy and nutritious way to fuel your body, consider adding hemp milk to your diet.
