Since infancy, milk and other dairy products constitute a significant portion of our diet. From infant formulas to cheese and ice creams, humans are regular consumers of food items derived from the milk of cows and other animals. But in recent years, the popularity of animal-based dairy products declines. The prominence of veganism gives way to the gradual rise of plant-based dairy products, including hemp seed milk.
A Case for Green Dairy Products
Vegans cite many reasons to avoid consuming animal-based dairy products. In its website, PETA published a list of the health risks of drinking or consuming food items processed from the dairy products from animals. Among them are lactose intolerance, allergies, acne, as well as high levels of cholesterol, sodium, and saturated fat. The group also blame the drink for triggering different types of cancer and weight gain. They even claim that animal-based dairy products reduce calcium absorption in our body, which can lead to brittle bones.
To make matters worse, the WWF also blames the dairy industry for putting the environment at risk. The manure and waste products from cattle produce greenhouse gases, which contribute to global warming. Poor handling of waste products can also cause water, land, and air pollution.
Hemp Seed Milk Benefits
Heeding these warnings, agriculturists have come up with plant-based alternatives. One of them, which is gaining popularity today is hemp milk. There are commercially available brands that you can buy. You can also make this healthy drink at home. All you need to do is mix water and hemp seeds using a blender. This mixture becomes a drink with an earthy and creamy consistency with a nutty flavor. Aside from gulping it as a beverage, you can add it to your coffee, cereals, and smoothies.
Even though this beverage comes from hemp (Cannabis Sativa), which is part of the cannabis family that includes marijuana, it is safe for consumption. Seeds from this plant only contain trace amounts of THC, the compound responsible for the “highs” that marijuana users experience.
Aside from being a green alternative to cow-based milk, hemp seed milk also matches or even surpass its nutritional content. Nutritionists consider hemp seed a superfood because it contains significant amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It also contains substantial amounts of essential fatty acids such as omega 3 and omega 6, which are necessary for building new tissues.
Hemp milk also contains fewer calories and carbohydrates while having approximately the same amount of fat. As a bonus, the protein from this mixture can get absorbed quickly by the body.
With its abundant nutritional amounts and environment-friendly production process, hemp milk is perhaps one of the best beverages to consume as a replacement to cow’s milk.
However, keep in mind that cannabis consumption is advisable to be consumed by pregnant and lactating mothers as this can affect babies. Better consult a paediatrician.
