In the previous article [1], we discussed three important benefits of hemp milk for cardiovascular, brain, and skin health. Today, we will add other advantages of this nutritious drink for health.
Potential health benefits of hemp milk
Hemp milk can improve bone density
Calcium is essential for our heart, muscle, bone and nerve to function properly. In adequate calcium intake may lead to the development of osteoporosis with low bone density and high risk of fracture. According to a survey conducted by the Canadian osteoporosis and bone - related disease resource center, the experts found that most people aren’t getting sufficient calcium they need to grow and maintain healthy bones. Especially, post menopausal women and children are at high risk of calcium deficiency due to high demand and low level of estrogen respectively [2].
Although a balanced diet is an important source to provide calcium, people should consume calcium from dairy products and calcium supplements to meet daily recommended intake.
Hemp milk is rich in calcium which can help you to keep the bones strong and healthy and may prevent osteoporosis or fracture.
Also, vitamin D in hemp milk can help the body to absorb calcium from diet. Although the skin can produce vitamin D by itself through exposure to sunlight, it can increase risk of sunburn, and even skin cancer. Getting vitamin D from milk in general and hemp milk in particular is preferable.
Remember, combination a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D with taking exercise prevents osteoporosis. But the measures may not be enough to stop bone loss or strengthen the bones. Dairy products, such as hemp milk, is a good option to help you meet the body's demand for calcium.
Its fatty acid can dampen inflammation
Linoleic acid, an omega 6 fatty acid, and alpha-linoleic acid, an omega 3 fatty acid, play an important role in controlling the immune system. However, the body can produce them naturally, and must obtain them from food and supplements.
Besides fish oil, hemp milk is also a good source containing a three-to-one ratio of omega 6 to omega 3 to lower the level of inflammation. Several studies have evaluated that omega 3 and omega 6 in fish oil is associated with prevention of conditions related to systemic inflammation, such as heart disease [3].
An alternative for people who can’t tolerate cow milk or being with allergy
Despite being common, cow milk can pose some issues for consumers, with food allergy, such as lactose intolerance or soy allergy. In contrast, hemp milk is free of gluten, soy, and lactose, so it can be a wonderful substitute.
How to make hemp milk at home
Ingredients
- ½ cups of hulled hemp seeds
- 3-4 cups of water
- Sea salt
- Sugar or sweetener
- Vanilla extract/cocoa powder for delicious taste
Instruction
- Add hemp seeds, water, salt and other ingredients to high-speed blender and blend for 1 minute or until the mixture become well-combined
- Add salt, sugar or vanilla if needed
- Strain the mixture with a nut milk bag to make it smoother
- Pour into a sealed container and refrigerate. Will keep in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
How to use hemp milk
- Its free of lactose, gluten and a good choice for those followed a vegan diet or avoid cow milk
- Hemp milk can be used with or substituted for cow’s milk
- While rare, hemp milk may trigger allergic reactions with the symptoms of stomach ache, diarrhea, floating. Consider these symptoms when they occur and stop using hemp milk.
- Some brands of hemp milk may add sugar to their products. Patients with diabetes should be careful to drink them.
- Choose the hemp milk product from reputable brands with adequate product information, clear origin of hemp seeds, third-party test no subject of FDA warning letters.
- Homemade hemp milk can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, however it may be best to consume within first 2-3 days
In summary, hemp milk is made from hemp seed and water. You can create it at home or buy commercial hemp milk at stores or supermarkets.
Hemp milk is a good source of important nutrients, such as essential amino acids, healthy fatty acids, minerals, and oil-soluble vitamins which may protect the cardiovascular system, brain, bone and skin health, or help provide enough nutrition for body needs.
Reference
[1]. https://hempsapa.com/en-vn/blogs/health-conditions/benefits-of-hemp-milk