An increasing number of people are swapping traditional dairy milk for plant-based alternatives, driven by a variety of factors. Some find the taste more appealing, particularly in tea or coffee, while others are motivated by health and environmental concerns.

The market is full of plant milk options. Oat, almond, and soya milks have become popular choices, each offering a unique flavour and potential health benefits. However, if your primary motivation for reducing dairy intake is personal well-being, there’s an alternative that you may not have considered but should.

Healthline experts have hailed hemp milk as one of the ‘healthiest’ milk substitutes available. It can be purchased online or from health food stores, and it’s also remarkably simple to make at home using just two basic ingredients.

What is hemp milk?

Hemp milk is a beverage derived from hemp seeds that have been ground and soaked in water, reports Surrey Live. Despite originating from the same plant as cannabis sativa, hemp seeds do not induce the psychoactive effects associated with marijuana, as reported by Medical News Today.

Often hailed as a superfood due to their high nutritional content, hemp seeds make hemp milk an excellent choice for those seeking a fibre and protein-rich alternative to dairy milk.

Health benefits of hemp milk

Hemp milk, derived from the seeds of the hemp plant, is a powerhouse of beneficial nutrients. It boasts more healthy fats and proteins than most other plant-based milks, including rice and almond.

When compared to whole cow’s milk, hemp milk has fewer calories, less protein and carbs but approximately the same amount of fat. It also provides all the essential amino acids your body requires and is easily digestible.

A 2018 study suggested that hemp milk could aid in lowering cholesterol levels and regulating thyroid hormones. It’s virtually carb-free and can enhance skin health due to its balanced ratio of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support your skin’s response to inflammation and ageing.

Rich in the amino acid arginine, consuming hemp milk can assist your body in producing nitric oxide, which helps relax blood vessels and maintain healthy blood pressure.

How to make hemp milk 

While hemp milk may not be readily available in UK supermarkets, it’s incredibly simple to make at home. This ensures no added sugar or additives, ideal for those looking to reduce their intake of ultra-processed foods.

To create your own hemp milk, you’ll need half a cup of shelled hemp seeds (available at Tesco), three or four cups of water (depending on your preferred consistency), and a pinch of sea salt. Blend these ingredients until smooth, adding a couple of dates or some vanilla extract for extra sweetness if desired.